Breathtakingly Beautiful Geneva, Switzerland!

Joseph and I agree, the train system in Europe is a fabulous way to travel and most importantly an amazing way to take in some pretty spectacular views! Check out a couple shots I took as our train carried us toward beautiful Geneva, Switzerland!

Since the sun had not yet set when we arrived, we decided to quickly unpack in our fantastic room at the elegant Beau Rivage Hotel, and then walk out the front entrance for a stroll along the promenade on the shores of Lake Geneva. The energy and sophistication we felt as we explored the city was something Joe and I both commented on immediately. It was the way in which people dressed, in a rather tailored and classic style, as well as, the languages being spoken all around us. French seemed prominent, however, I believe there are four different languages used frequently in this city.

The other obvious indications of sophistication and wealth are the displays of the world finest watches in windows in every direction, the presence of Mont Blanc both in the distance and as a brand, and the vast array of exotic automobiles, including; Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Maserati, Ferrari, Audi, Aston Martin, Mercedes, Land Rover, Lamborghini, Pagani, and Bugatti. Again, my husband was enjoying himself as there was a seemingly endless parade of luxury cars everywhere we looked.

Le Jet d'eau- Water Fountain shoots 500 liters of water per second to a height of 140 meters 

Standing by the Brunswick Monument built in 1879 to honor Charles II, Duke of Brunswick who bequeathed his fortune to the city for construction of a replica of the Scaliger Tombs of Verona, Italy 

After the sun set, we enjoyed dinner at a Tex-Mex Restaurant and turned in for a good night's rest. The following morning we made our way to a towering structure, which is home to the World Heart Federation for an opportunity to meet with the staff and to share with them the affiliation we enjoy between the "Go Red for Women" campaign and the International Pageant System.

World Heart Federation

We were greeted by Heidi Lake, introduced to the staff by Johanna Raiston- CEO, and made to feel welcome by all. I addressed the group by first explaining to them the foundation of the International pageant, then elaborated on the alliance we share and the mutual benefits to their organization, as well as, the women who participate in the International pageants around the world (not to mention those who benefit from the message itself). As I launched into the type and variety of events in which I have volunteered on behalf of the AHA, often along side other titleholders within our system, the group seemed collectively engaged and encouraged. Fortunately, I was able to bring a flash drive and moved through photographs of related events as I spoke. When I was finished we took photographs and several staff members stayed on for further discussion.

My official Clay Spann Go Red photo

There were many good questions 

Honoring Twin Cities Heart Walk Fundraisers 

Sharing the message with International participants 

It was an honor to meet the staff of the World Heart Federation! 

The weather was so incredible, Joe and I decided to walk back to Beau Rivage along the river L'Arve and Le Rhone. One of our favorite sights was that of the Hans Wilsdorf Bridge. The elliptical steel truss design is often referred to as the "bird's nest," and the structure is named after the founder of Rolex Watches and funded through the Rolex Foundation.

Hans Wilsdorf Bridge over the River Arve

After a lovely lunch at a sidewalk cafe, we boarded a Swissboat and toured Lake Geneva. I could write about the tour highlights for hours, but instead will simply share the photos of some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world!

Leaving the Harbor  

St. Peter's Cathedral

Little Mermaid of Lake Geneva 

Maison de Saussure-Eisenhower (1955)

Paquis Lighthouse

Beau Rivage Hotel from the boat

Returning to Harbor

Before leaving Switzerland it was an absolute must...to enjoy a Swiss Chocolate Fondue...and we did! Oh my goodness, we found a most authentic and charming spot in the heart of Geneva, with a painted ceiling and a fondue to remember!

My sincerest thank you to Johanna Raiston and her staff at the World Heart Federation for your time and for making both Joe and me feel so very welcome. And, of course, my gratitude to Becky Thoreson for making this wonderful connection.

Au Revior from Geneva,

Sarah Bazey
Mrs. International 2012