Greetings,
I arrived last week to Geneva for a six month staysomewhat unware, and perhaps unlucky, new arrival to this wonderful city and region. I am hoping to crowdsource knowledge here for circumstances encountered today:
Upon arrival last week, I bought a "Tout Geneve" Zone 10 monthly pass. However, I rode the F bus, returning from a trip to Ferney (Zone 87), without understanding I had left Zone 10 and unaware of how to buy a ticket on the bus (there was no machine at the bus stop). Of course, as luck would dictate, TPG inspectors were waiting before my return to Geneva, so I received a fine of 72 Euro, if paid within 2 (!) days, or else 128 Euro.
I asked (in English, I speak only a few words of French so far) if I could pay immediately in cash or card, and was told no. I was told by the inspector that I must send a check or online transfer to the address or bank account on the back of the ticket, and that the TPG office in Geneva (e.g. Cornavin or elsehwere) could not accept the fine because I was penalized in France. I do not yet have a Swiss (or French) bank account, and will not for at least a couple weeks. (I am American.)
A French friend in the US, who used to live in Geneva, suggested the Swiss postbank, but didn't know if this would work from a Swiss post to a French account. (I don't know myself.)
Thus, I turn to this forum to welcome any constructive suggestions about how I can clear this fine as quickly and effectively as possible (ideally tomorrow). I can go to the TPG office at Cornavin tomorrow, but am not sanguine based on what the inspector told me today.
I'll note that I am not contesting that I was not ticketed properly (although I was confused and experienced no leniency, despite havnig a Zone 10 monthly pass). I am rather looking to rectify the fine. Kind thanks in advance.
Cheers!
