General

First Impressions of Zurich – and Geneva

In a sea of white or blue shirts and dark grey suits, where the only distinguishing factor is the color of your tie, I have two others – the color of my skin and the language that I do not speak. I am speaking, of course, of the bank where I work.

I am beginning to like Zurich. This is my third week here, and I have found it to be a city with life. Here, one can find people on the streets at 10pm – even on weekdays. There are mid-priced restaurants, ‘concept’ bars and an international community. And stereotypes aside, people smile and help you when you ask stupid questions and directions in English.

Of course, my enthusiasm for Zurich may actually be a reason to be afraid of Geneva. After all, I now think Zurich – a city of 400,000 – is a big city! What happened to the big city boy that came from Delhi with its 12 million inhabitants?

Still, one thing stands out in Zurich. Me. Listening to German and not understanding it is tiring. French is comforting. How much I stood out did not strike me till I got off the train at Geneva’s Cornavain station. One of the first sights to greet me was of a man, unshaven with unkempt hair. Nearby, two people carried skis, both with pierced ears and a dress style I can only call outlandish. Next to me a woman spoke Spanish into a phone. I never saw such a motley collection in Zurich in my first three days there. Then it struck me. In Geneva I was one of the motley bunch. I fitted in, because a large minority around me did not.

In Zurich, I suspect the pressure to conform may be higher. For the first time in my life I am more aware of my race. Is it paranoia?

Anyway, which is better? I was relieved to be back in Geneva, but the relief is subsiding. Because Geneva is comfortable and relaxing, but very transient. If only I could fathom German, Zurich could be a fun stop. But it too may not be big enough to capture my imagination. Even as I write, I find myself stuck in a vicious cycle. The more I see, the more I want to see! And I’m not ready to retire yet.