i will be in lugano for 2 days and would like suggestions what to bring back as mementos of lugano/switz. also, i'd like to purchase a nice watch for my husband. can anyone make some suggestions. are prices better in switz. or can i get just as good prices in nyc

Ro: Best shopping street in Lugano is Via Nassa in the pedestrian area which is very nice for shopping. <BR>There is also a branch of Bucherer for watches at Via Nassa. <BR>

I have never seen so many luxury watches as I saw in Lugano. I bet if you go in and ask for stamps, they try and sell you a Patek Philippe. If you can't find a watch in Lugano, well... <BR> <BR>As for prices, I'm not American.

If you like lace there is a wonderful little lace shop right at the foot of the cable car...they have nice items at fair prices and they must be really good people because they have the cutest little Yorkshire Terrier guarding their shop!!!

I hope I'm not too late to wish you a wonderful visit to Lugano. I loved that town! I agree with Ursula about the Via Nassa--it is arcaded for much of the time, so you are protected from weather. May I add that if you get tired of shopping, the boat rides to Gandria and Morcote are lovely ways to spend the afternoon? And don't forget to visit the beautiful church Santa Maria degli Angioli -- just a little beyond the end of the Via Nassa (I think) -- the fresco is stunning. I hope you'll be able to spend a bit of time wandering through the outdoor market. We came upon it as we walked from the station funicular (sp?) to the boat dock. This is such a lovely part of Switzerland. Bon voyage. jw