Mama Mia Italy!
Aug 15th, 2014, 11:58 PM
#81
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28 June To Milan via Naples
With much sadness and a few tears I waved my home for the last 5 days goodbye. We had our final group breakfast before getting on the private mini bus transfer to Naples train station.
We made really good time and were at Napoli Centrale by 10:30. We had been told to book any onward travel after 11am so I had booked myself on the high speed train Frecciarossa to Milan on Business Class. My roommate, her sister and niece were also on this train going to Rome but we were in different coaches. Another girl from the tour was on the 1pm train to Rome too.
Naples train station looked nice, new and clean. Since we were there so early and we could see the 11am train, we tried to get our tickets changed. We were told that because we had the special discount tickets, they could not change the time.
Roberta and her boyfriend managed to get tickets from the machine for the 11am train. They also helped the girl on the 1pm train change her ticket to the 12pm fast train.
Right - all tickets sorted, we thought we might as well have an early lunch. There was a decent cafeteria with loads of choices. But we also had a lots of bags between us
We found a big table and took turns in getting lunch.
While having lunch we were approached by some gypsies for money. First came a young man, then a young lady and then a woman with a child in her arms. We just shook our head and then ignored them and they went away. As we were leaving, we saw that they had taken over a corner of the cafeteria, where they were having Mcdonalds and generally carrying on as if they were on holidays!
Then it was on to the train. The platform was packed and I was in a mad rush so I could secure a spot for my bag on train. I waved my friends goodbye and quickly got on the correct car. Yes there were people trying to “help” and I had to practically wrestle my bag off a young lady. Once again being small and wily came in handy
This train was slightly different in that there was space between the seats to put your bag. I had read about this but didn’t understand how that would work. Well check out the photo. Yes there is indeed a big space between seats.
The trains are also equipped electrical outlets to recharge your devices if you need. About 20 minutes after the train took off, the attendants came around offering a juice and snack. I wanted to go check out the restaurant car but wasn’t game to leave my suitcase.
It was 4 hours 40 mins to Milan only stopping momentarily in Rome Tiburtina, Rome Termini, Florence and Bologna stations. Good thing I had movies and books on my iPad.
While on the train I got a text from my friend that she was on the train from Lausanne to Milan. We were getting into Milano Centrale within half an hour of each other so had plans to meet at the train station before going to the hotel together.
Milano Centrale is an architectural marvel. It is huge! Multi-level served by trains, buses, metro, taxis etc. And it is crowded! There are a lot of shops in the station and one can spend loads of time here. But I had heard/read so many pick pocketing stories that I wasn’t even game enough to take photos.
I found a very nice café called Bistrot Milano Centrale http://www.milanocentrale.it/en/stor...lano-centrale1 . Wow! this was a very nice train station café. Don’t even get me started on the wooden tables and the mismatched stools. Love…
If you are in Milano Centrale, try to check it out. It was run in the typical Italian style in that you figure out what you want, then pay for it and take the receipt to the appropriate counter. They had a coffee bar, a drinks bar and different food counters.
I had a coffee while waiting for my friend before meeting her and taking a taxi to the hotel – Gran Duca di York. 10E
I had posted a question about where to stay in Milan on TA. I was thinking Ibis or Berna or NH President but then I got a PM recommending Gran Duca di York http://www.terrazzaaperol.it/en/home/. I hadn’t even seen this hotel come up on my search but saw that they got really good reviews and it was in the Rick Steves book. Well if RS says it ok, it’s ok
This was the nicest hotel of the trip in Italy. I could not believe that we got our rooms for 90E each. The mini bar in the room is free (stocked with non alcoholic drinks) which came in handy. And when I saw the shower - I think I shed a tear. I was here for 5 nights so I unpacked my suitcase and spread out my toiletries all over the bathroom because it was my room and I could. See the solo travel is spoiling me
I finally put on my skirt and top bought from Zara and did my full makeup to go out for dinner (yes I even put on eye shadow and mascara).
L had booked a table at Agnello Ristorante http://www.ristoranteagnello.it/ where she had been for a work dinner before. It was walking distance from the hotel. In fact everything was walking distance. We were less than 5 minutes’ walk from the Duomo. And wow! It’s a statement – you are in Milan. The square itself is pretty interesting but more on that later.
This was the most expensive restaurant of the trip. It was very nice and the service was outstanding. The food was pleasant. I had grilled vegetables for starter followed by Milanese Risotto and Tiramisu to finish. They also served complementary breads, olives, olive oil and dips. We had some Prosecco to start. My bill came to 45E.
After dinner we went to Terrazza Aperol http://www.terrazzaaperol.it/en/home/ and had a Spritz 8E. This is an uber cool cocktail bar with the terrace overlooking the Duomo and the sqaure. Well worth going to this one.
After finishing our drink we walked to Sforza Castel to watch the fountains before heading back to our lovely hotel for a wonderful night’s sleep.
Here is a link to my blog and photos
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...ia-naples.html
With much sadness and a few tears I waved my home for the last 5 days goodbye. We had our final group breakfast before getting on the private mini bus transfer to Naples train station.
We made really good time and were at Napoli Centrale by 10:30. We had been told to book any onward travel after 11am so I had booked myself on the high speed train Frecciarossa to Milan on Business Class. My roommate, her sister and niece were also on this train going to Rome but we were in different coaches. Another girl from the tour was on the 1pm train to Rome too.
Naples train station looked nice, new and clean. Since we were there so early and we could see the 11am train, we tried to get our tickets changed. We were told that because we had the special discount tickets, they could not change the time.
Roberta and her boyfriend managed to get tickets from the machine for the 11am train. They also helped the girl on the 1pm train change her ticket to the 12pm fast train.
Right - all tickets sorted, we thought we might as well have an early lunch. There was a decent cafeteria with loads of choices. But we also had a lots of bags between us
We found a big table and took turns in getting lunch.
While having lunch we were approached by some gypsies for money. First came a young man, then a young lady and then a woman with a child in her arms. We just shook our head and then ignored them and they went away. As we were leaving, we saw that they had taken over a corner of the cafeteria, where they were having Mcdonalds and generally carrying on as if they were on holidays!
Then it was on to the train. The platform was packed and I was in a mad rush so I could secure a spot for my bag on train. I waved my friends goodbye and quickly got on the correct car. Yes there were people trying to “help” and I had to practically wrestle my bag off a young lady. Once again being small and wily came in handy
This train was slightly different in that there was space between the seats to put your bag. I had read about this but didn’t understand how that would work. Well check out the photo. Yes there is indeed a big space between seats.
The trains are also equipped electrical outlets to recharge your devices if you need. About 20 minutes after the train took off, the attendants came around offering a juice and snack. I wanted to go check out the restaurant car but wasn’t game to leave my suitcase.
It was 4 hours 40 mins to Milan only stopping momentarily in Rome Tiburtina, Rome Termini, Florence and Bologna stations. Good thing I had movies and books on my iPad.
While on the train I got a text from my friend that she was on the train from Lausanne to Milan. We were getting into Milano Centrale within half an hour of each other so had plans to meet at the train station before going to the hotel together.
Milano Centrale is an architectural marvel. It is huge! Multi-level served by trains, buses, metro, taxis etc. And it is crowded! There are a lot of shops in the station and one can spend loads of time here. But I had heard/read so many pick pocketing stories that I wasn’t even game enough to take photos.
I found a very nice café called Bistrot Milano Centrale http://www.milanocentrale.it/en/stor...lano-centrale1 . Wow! this was a very nice train station café. Don’t even get me started on the wooden tables and the mismatched stools. Love…
If you are in Milano Centrale, try to check it out. It was run in the typical Italian style in that you figure out what you want, then pay for it and take the receipt to the appropriate counter. They had a coffee bar, a drinks bar and different food counters.
I had a coffee while waiting for my friend before meeting her and taking a taxi to the hotel – Gran Duca di York. 10E
I had posted a question about where to stay in Milan on TA. I was thinking Ibis or Berna or NH President but then I got a PM recommending Gran Duca di York http://www.terrazzaaperol.it/en/home/. I hadn’t even seen this hotel come up on my search but saw that they got really good reviews and it was in the Rick Steves book. Well if RS says it ok, it’s ok
This was the nicest hotel of the trip in Italy. I could not believe that we got our rooms for 90E each. The mini bar in the room is free (stocked with non alcoholic drinks) which came in handy. And when I saw the shower - I think I shed a tear. I was here for 5 nights so I unpacked my suitcase and spread out my toiletries all over the bathroom because it was my room and I could. See the solo travel is spoiling me
I finally put on my skirt and top bought from Zara and did my full makeup to go out for dinner (yes I even put on eye shadow and mascara).
L had booked a table at Agnello Ristorante http://www.ristoranteagnello.it/ where she had been for a work dinner before. It was walking distance from the hotel. In fact everything was walking distance. We were less than 5 minutes’ walk from the Duomo. And wow! It’s a statement – you are in Milan. The square itself is pretty interesting but more on that later.
This was the most expensive restaurant of the trip. It was very nice and the service was outstanding. The food was pleasant. I had grilled vegetables for starter followed by Milanese Risotto and Tiramisu to finish. They also served complementary breads, olives, olive oil and dips. We had some Prosecco to start. My bill came to 45E.
After dinner we went to Terrazza Aperol http://www.terrazzaaperol.it/en/home/ and had a Spritz 8E. This is an uber cool cocktail bar with the terrace overlooking the Duomo and the sqaure. Well worth going to this one.
After finishing our drink we walked to Sforza Castel to watch the fountains before heading back to our lovely hotel for a wonderful night’s sleep.
Here is a link to my blog and photos
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...ia-naples.html
Aug 18th, 2014, 02:05 PM
#85
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We started the day off with a fabulous breakfast at the hotel. I tend not eat hot food or eggs for breakfast, so any hotel breakfast where I get coffee, cornetto, toast, cereal, fruit – I’m happy.
It was a drizzly day so we started by going to the Duomo and viewing the inside. I used Wikipedia and Rick Steves guide book to identify points of interest. This is a spectacular church. The leadlight windows are absolutely incredible.
Leaving the Duomo we saw that it was still raining so went to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Another architectural marvel.
Note: There must have been gremlins in my camera because I can’t find any photos of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and La Scala exteriors. I’m positive I took quite a few.
We went in to La Rinascente to kill some time. L, who never does anything by halves, bought 2 Missoni scarves for 300E and a Chloe hand bag for 1000E. I like to think of myself as an enabler
Back to the hotel so L could pack up her new goodies and go to the train station to catch her train to Lausanne.
After waving L goodbye and feeling blessed for having such nice friends. I went to Via Dante for shopping. I went straight to the Geox store where the sale had already started and got 2 pairs of shoes. Then to OVS, which is the Italian version of H&M I think, where I bought some summery outfits. I popped into a café to buy a spinach and cheese twist pastry and went back hotel to drop off the bags.
After eating my pastry I headed over Via Torino and found chololate mecca! Hello chocoholics! http://www.cioccolatitaliani.it I had to have one of their fabulous gelatos. Once again I can’t believe my photos are MIA.
After the gelato I was ready for more shopping and Zara was calling my name. So I hit the Zara store. Once again everything here I could have bought and would wear. I walked away with only one big bag. I also went to a store called Pull and Bear and bought a pair of crazy patterned harem pants.
Everyone was wearing these and I had to have a pair.
Ok so back to the hotel to drop off more bags. I asked the nice lady at the hotel reception for dinner suggestions. She suggested a stroll to the Brera area. This is the cool and hip area of Milan. Loads of boutiques, bars and restaurants. You will also find the Brera Gallery which I regret not having the time to visit. The walk there was very nice – going past La Scala and Brera Gallery. I only saw it from the outside but it looked very impressive.
I found a popular bar called Sans Egal for aperitivo. I picked it out of my TA app and it was very nice. I was early enough to get a table outside. The service was questionable but I managed to get my Spritz and helped myself to the buffet inside. There was a variety of food including a few different salads but once again the service wasn’t great. For 9E I couldn’t complain. I did do the unmentionable and went to the buffet twice J
Walking back to the hotel I came a across an Amorino outlet and had to buy a pistachio macaroon.
Note that as a solo female I had no problems walking around at 10pm from Brera to my hotel. The day before my friend and I had been walking around after 12am.
Reflections on Milan: I can say I loved Milan. In general, I found Milan to be a very attractive city. The Galleries, stores, cafes, restaurants, churches and museums are rather grand. The city in general seems more spaced out compared to Rome and Florence. This is a sophisticated city and I cant wait to go back one day. It also felt completely safe.
It was a drizzly day so we started by going to the Duomo and viewing the inside. I used Wikipedia and Rick Steves guide book to identify points of interest. This is a spectacular church. The leadlight windows are absolutely incredible.
Leaving the Duomo we saw that it was still raining so went to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Another architectural marvel.
Note: There must have been gremlins in my camera because I can’t find any photos of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and La Scala exteriors. I’m positive I took quite a few.
We went in to La Rinascente to kill some time. L, who never does anything by halves, bought 2 Missoni scarves for 300E and a Chloe hand bag for 1000E. I like to think of myself as an enabler
Back to the hotel so L could pack up her new goodies and go to the train station to catch her train to Lausanne.
After waving L goodbye and feeling blessed for having such nice friends. I went to Via Dante for shopping. I went straight to the Geox store where the sale had already started and got 2 pairs of shoes. Then to OVS, which is the Italian version of H&M I think, where I bought some summery outfits. I popped into a café to buy a spinach and cheese twist pastry and went back hotel to drop off the bags.
After eating my pastry I headed over Via Torino and found chololate mecca! Hello chocoholics! http://www.cioccolatitaliani.it I had to have one of their fabulous gelatos. Once again I can’t believe my photos are MIA.
After the gelato I was ready for more shopping and Zara was calling my name. So I hit the Zara store. Once again everything here I could have bought and would wear. I walked away with only one big bag. I also went to a store called Pull and Bear and bought a pair of crazy patterned harem pants.
Everyone was wearing these and I had to have a pair.
Ok so back to the hotel to drop off more bags. I asked the nice lady at the hotel reception for dinner suggestions. She suggested a stroll to the Brera area. This is the cool and hip area of Milan. Loads of boutiques, bars and restaurants. You will also find the Brera Gallery which I regret not having the time to visit. The walk there was very nice – going past La Scala and Brera Gallery. I only saw it from the outside but it looked very impressive.
I found a popular bar called Sans Egal for aperitivo. I picked it out of my TA app and it was very nice. I was early enough to get a table outside. The service was questionable but I managed to get my Spritz and helped myself to the buffet inside. There was a variety of food including a few different salads but once again the service wasn’t great. For 9E I couldn’t complain. I did do the unmentionable and went to the buffet twice J
Walking back to the hotel I came a across an Amorino outlet and had to buy a pistachio macaroon.
Note that as a solo female I had no problems walking around at 10pm from Brera to my hotel. The day before my friend and I had been walking around after 12am.
Reflections on Milan: I can say I loved Milan. In general, I found Milan to be a very attractive city. The Galleries, stores, cafes, restaurants, churches and museums are rather grand. The city in general seems more spaced out compared to Rome and Florence. This is a sophisticated city and I cant wait to go back one day. It also felt completely safe.
Aug 18th, 2014, 02:05 PM
#86
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Here is a link to my blog post and photos
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...une-milan.html
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...une-milan.html
Aug 24th, 2014, 10:37 PM
#87
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Sorry all but I am still trying to complete my trip report. Here is the next instalment.
30 June Day trip to Lake Como
I had initially planned to stay a night in Como to explore the area around Lake Como but decided not move hotels and to stay in Milan. I actually didn’t want to pack and unpack again. So it was a day trip to Lake Como instead. Good decision. I had the Lake Como chapter from Rick Steves’ guide book and used it to make my around Lake Como.
I took the 9:20am Trenord train to Varenna from Milano Centrale. The train station was really crazy busy but the train was empty. In one hour I was in Varenna.
Varenna is an adorable town and a photographer’s dream. I followed the guide book instructions and walked from the train station to the ferry dock area. I found the tourist info office first and they gave me a ferry table. The helpful lady in the ferry ticket office advised me to buy individual tickets rather than a pass.
With my onward journey organised I took the Lover’s Walk around the lake front heading towards town. There were some nice stores selling art work along the way. I had a quick coffee at a café (needed an extra boost this morning). I didn’t walk all the way to the castle or Villa Monastero but just to the main piazza with its 4 churches!
I took a table at the Nilus Bar and enjoyed an orange juice on the lake front before catching a quick ferry ride to Bellagio.
By this stage I was ready for lunch. I took a recommendation from Rick Steves and went to Trattoria San Giacomo. One of their specials of the day was vegetarian lasagne! My favourite! The food was good and the service was fantastic. After lunch I walked around the lanes of Bellagio which are full of cute little stores selling jewellery, ceramics and silk scarves. I ended up buying a statement ring and bracelet from one of the jewellery stores in town. I found Gelataria Del Borgo to get my gelato fix and then walked to the view point Punto Spartivento for some photos.
I looked up the timetable and saw that I could make the ferry to Villa Carlotta. So glad I went. The gardens were stunning and the villa itself was beautiful. It was starting to warm up and I loved finding a man made rainforest mist in the garden. It was like being in a different world. Very Avatar.
I walked to Tremezzo and saw the legendary Grand Hotel with its floating pool.
From Tremezzo I caught the ferry to Como which took about 2 hours. Coming in to Como was fantastic. Got the best views of the lake and Como.
The ferry docked directly in front of Burate furnicular. So why not... Took the furnicular up the mountain with fab views on the way. Had a little walk around the town which was closed.
I walked around the lake front following the signs to the train station Lago di Como. I soon as I go to the train station I saw a train standing on the platform. The departure board said it would leave in 10 mins. Ran to the station ticket office to buy tickets. Used the machine with the help of some other tourists to buy ticket. Made it!! The train took me to Cardona station. From there I easily caught the metro to Duomo.
I was too tired to look for a nicer place for dinner and read in the RS guidebook that there was a self service cafeteria called Ciao in the Piazza del Duomo. Frankly the food was rubbish. I would have been better off going to McDonald’s next door.
Went to the view point near the funicular to take some photos and then caught the furnicular back down. I did not have the energy to go up to the lighthouse
Reflections on Lake Como:- I loved this day trip and am so glad I went! I had one of the best weather days with a clear blue sky. All the tips and information from the TA and Fodors forum came in very handy. In comparison to the organised day trips to Tuscany, I found that I had a lot more flexibility and freedom to do as I pleased. While I knew what I wanted to do I didn’t set any time limits on myself and took things as they came. This meant that I did not get to explore Como the town itself. But that’s ok – that ones for next time
30 June Day trip to Lake Como
I had initially planned to stay a night in Como to explore the area around Lake Como but decided not move hotels and to stay in Milan. I actually didn’t want to pack and unpack again. So it was a day trip to Lake Como instead. Good decision. I had the Lake Como chapter from Rick Steves’ guide book and used it to make my around Lake Como.
I took the 9:20am Trenord train to Varenna from Milano Centrale. The train station was really crazy busy but the train was empty. In one hour I was in Varenna.
Varenna is an adorable town and a photographer’s dream. I followed the guide book instructions and walked from the train station to the ferry dock area. I found the tourist info office first and they gave me a ferry table. The helpful lady in the ferry ticket office advised me to buy individual tickets rather than a pass.
With my onward journey organised I took the Lover’s Walk around the lake front heading towards town. There were some nice stores selling art work along the way. I had a quick coffee at a café (needed an extra boost this morning). I didn’t walk all the way to the castle or Villa Monastero but just to the main piazza with its 4 churches!
I took a table at the Nilus Bar and enjoyed an orange juice on the lake front before catching a quick ferry ride to Bellagio.
By this stage I was ready for lunch. I took a recommendation from Rick Steves and went to Trattoria San Giacomo. One of their specials of the day was vegetarian lasagne! My favourite! The food was good and the service was fantastic. After lunch I walked around the lanes of Bellagio which are full of cute little stores selling jewellery, ceramics and silk scarves. I ended up buying a statement ring and bracelet from one of the jewellery stores in town. I found Gelataria Del Borgo to get my gelato fix and then walked to the view point Punto Spartivento for some photos.
I looked up the timetable and saw that I could make the ferry to Villa Carlotta. So glad I went. The gardens were stunning and the villa itself was beautiful. It was starting to warm up and I loved finding a man made rainforest mist in the garden. It was like being in a different world. Very Avatar.
I walked to Tremezzo and saw the legendary Grand Hotel with its floating pool.
From Tremezzo I caught the ferry to Como which took about 2 hours. Coming in to Como was fantastic. Got the best views of the lake and Como.
The ferry docked directly in front of Burate furnicular. So why not... Took the furnicular up the mountain with fab views on the way. Had a little walk around the town which was closed.
I walked around the lake front following the signs to the train station Lago di Como. I soon as I go to the train station I saw a train standing on the platform. The departure board said it would leave in 10 mins. Ran to the station ticket office to buy tickets. Used the machine with the help of some other tourists to buy ticket. Made it!! The train took me to Cardona station. From there I easily caught the metro to Duomo.
I was too tired to look for a nicer place for dinner and read in the RS guidebook that there was a self service cafeteria called Ciao in the Piazza del Duomo. Frankly the food was rubbish. I would have been better off going to McDonald’s next door.
Went to the view point near the funicular to take some photos and then caught the furnicular back down. I did not have the energy to go up to the lighthouse
Reflections on Lake Como:- I loved this day trip and am so glad I went! I had one of the best weather days with a clear blue sky. All the tips and information from the TA and Fodors forum came in very handy. In comparison to the organised day trips to Tuscany, I found that I had a lot more flexibility and freedom to do as I pleased. While I knew what I wanted to do I didn’t set any time limits on myself and took things as they came. This meant that I did not get to explore Como the town itself. But that’s ok – that ones for next time
Aug 24th, 2014, 10:38 PM
#88
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Here is a link to my blog post and the photos:-
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...lake-como.html
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...lake-como.html
Aug 25th, 2014, 04:52 AM
#89
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But wait these more
1 July Day trip to Switzerland on the Bernina Express
I had booked an organised tour called Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan on Viator. Started very early in the morning by walking to Zani Viaggi office. Met up with the tour leader and group at 7am. We all got on the tour bus to Tirano. The scenery along the way was beautiful. We went around Lake Como via Lecco to Tirano.
First stop was Santuario Madonna di Tirano, a beautiful church.
After visiting the church, we got back on the bus to the Tirano train station. The group decided to go to a restaurant for lunch. I bought some bread and cheese from the supermarket and had this as I walked around the town. Not much to see here. There are 2 train stations. The Italian station and the Swiss station across the square from each other. A few cafés and restaurants around the square. Saw the Bernina express pull in and saw loads of tourists transferring between stations.
Had a coffee at one of the nicer cafés near train station before meeting the group. We got on the Bernina express at 12:40pm. The trip was around 2 1/2 hours to St Moritz and the scenery.... Oh la la.... Words can't describe what my eyes saw.
St Moritz was overcast and a bit drizzly. I had my order from home to buy Swiss chocolates. I went to the TI and they told the nearest Coop supermarket was 2 mins away. Sadly the selection of chocolates was limited. St Moritz is obviously a town that caters to a certain type of clientele. The Dior and Prada crowd. While it would have been fun doing a bit of window shopping, it was freezing cold and drizzling. I got myself a hot chocolate and took 10.
Then walked towards the river for some photos before finding the tour group in the train station parking lot.
On the bus we went on a wild spin around some off the most nail biting hair pin bends. This was the Maloja Pass - worse than Amalfi! But a lot more orderly must be the Swiss influence....
We had a 45 min stop for dinner at an auto-grill which served surprisingly decent cut pizza slices. Or maybe it was the fresh mountain air making me hungry...
In any case we made to Milan by 8:30 as promised.
I went to the hotel to freshen up and then went back out to hunt down Grom gelato. Found it on Via Santa Margherita. I followed the sound of rock music coming from Piazza Del Duomo which turned out to be an MTV concert! The performers were a very popular Italian rock band. I stood around listening for a while and bopping along with the crowd before heading back to the hotel. The best thing about travelling is finding these fun unexpected surprises along the way.
Here is a link to my blog post and photos:-
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...erland-on.html
1 July Day trip to Switzerland on the Bernina Express
I had booked an organised tour called Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan on Viator. Started very early in the morning by walking to Zani Viaggi office. Met up with the tour leader and group at 7am. We all got on the tour bus to Tirano. The scenery along the way was beautiful. We went around Lake Como via Lecco to Tirano.
First stop was Santuario Madonna di Tirano, a beautiful church.
After visiting the church, we got back on the bus to the Tirano train station. The group decided to go to a restaurant for lunch. I bought some bread and cheese from the supermarket and had this as I walked around the town. Not much to see here. There are 2 train stations. The Italian station and the Swiss station across the square from each other. A few cafés and restaurants around the square. Saw the Bernina express pull in and saw loads of tourists transferring between stations.
Had a coffee at one of the nicer cafés near train station before meeting the group. We got on the Bernina express at 12:40pm. The trip was around 2 1/2 hours to St Moritz and the scenery.... Oh la la.... Words can't describe what my eyes saw.
St Moritz was overcast and a bit drizzly. I had my order from home to buy Swiss chocolates. I went to the TI and they told the nearest Coop supermarket was 2 mins away. Sadly the selection of chocolates was limited. St Moritz is obviously a town that caters to a certain type of clientele. The Dior and Prada crowd. While it would have been fun doing a bit of window shopping, it was freezing cold and drizzling. I got myself a hot chocolate and took 10.
Then walked towards the river for some photos before finding the tour group in the train station parking lot.
On the bus we went on a wild spin around some off the most nail biting hair pin bends. This was the Maloja Pass - worse than Amalfi! But a lot more orderly must be the Swiss influence....
We had a 45 min stop for dinner at an auto-grill which served surprisingly decent cut pizza slices. Or maybe it was the fresh mountain air making me hungry...
In any case we made to Milan by 8:30 as promised.
I went to the hotel to freshen up and then went back out to hunt down Grom gelato. Found it on Via Santa Margherita. I followed the sound of rock music coming from Piazza Del Duomo which turned out to be an MTV concert! The performers were a very popular Italian rock band. I stood around listening for a while and bopping along with the crowd before heading back to the hotel. The best thing about travelling is finding these fun unexpected surprises along the way.
Here is a link to my blog post and photos:-
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...erland-on.html
Aug 25th, 2014, 07:11 AM
#91
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Lake Como ... one of the most beautiful places I've ever been! I have fond memories of ferry rides, walks around picturesque towns, breathtaking views & our stay in Bellagio. We also had a nice dinner at Trattoria San Giacomo. Even in the fall, the gardens at Villa Carlotta are lovely! Thanks for taking me back through you TR & gorgeous photos!
Aug 25th, 2014, 10:35 PM
#92
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2 July Milan - The Last Supper and Shopping
It was a cold and wet morning. I had an online booking to view Da Vinci's painting of the Last Supper but I almost didn't make it! For once the iPhone map instructions sent me in a circle or I lost my sense of direction in the rain. I had 9:45am time slot ticket and I got to the ticket office at 9:38 praying that they let me in. The lady looked at me sighed and then gave me tickets. Bless you!!
We were taken into a little chamber, before moving into the actual hall that contains The Last Supper paining. Words fail me. It was incredible and incredibly moving.
I was shocked that the monks had a cut door under the painting and Jesus's feet can no longer be seen.
As I came out, I saw that it was still raining. I no longer trusted the iPhone map app. We had broken up and it was bad... iPhone you are not my BFF anymore!
Using the paper map, I went to the metro station and caught the metro to Via Montenapoleone. When I walked out of the metro station, the sun was peaking out.
Walking down Via Montenapoleone I saw all the big names in luxury fashion. Look but don't dream of stepping in looking like a poor tourist. I wish I could have had my pretty woman moment but I had no bundle of euro to flash around. So I turned around, walked to Corso Vittorio Emanuel II. Ahhhh here was Zara, Mango, H&M.... First shop I went into was Massimo Dutti. The sale assistant immediately told me that there was 30% off all summer stock. Right - the sales had started!
I bought a few things but to be quite honest I was tired and hungry. For some reason I had forgotten to eat lunch.
I thought I'll try the La Rinascente food court. Well, it was busy and expensive. But I was hungry, so had salad from one of the outlets.
More window shopping. Walking around the opera area. Contemplated seeing if I could tour the opera house but was really feeling exhausted.
Back to hotel for a rest and final packing.
I asked for a recommendation for dinner from hotel concierge and he told me about a nice little restaurant around the corner. I had a wonderful dinner at Hostaria Borromei. I had the pumpkin ravioli and warm chocolate cake. The waiter recommended a delicious wine. I totally recommend this place. The atmosphere was lovely and the service was outstanding. The food delicious.
I retuned back to the hotel a happy, well fed little camper...
Here is a link to my blog post and photos:-
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...-shopping.html
It was a cold and wet morning. I had an online booking to view Da Vinci's painting of the Last Supper but I almost didn't make it! For once the iPhone map instructions sent me in a circle or I lost my sense of direction in the rain. I had 9:45am time slot ticket and I got to the ticket office at 9:38 praying that they let me in. The lady looked at me sighed and then gave me tickets. Bless you!!
We were taken into a little chamber, before moving into the actual hall that contains The Last Supper paining. Words fail me. It was incredible and incredibly moving.
I was shocked that the monks had a cut door under the painting and Jesus's feet can no longer be seen.
As I came out, I saw that it was still raining. I no longer trusted the iPhone map app. We had broken up and it was bad... iPhone you are not my BFF anymore!
Using the paper map, I went to the metro station and caught the metro to Via Montenapoleone. When I walked out of the metro station, the sun was peaking out.
Walking down Via Montenapoleone I saw all the big names in luxury fashion. Look but don't dream of stepping in looking like a poor tourist. I wish I could have had my pretty woman moment but I had no bundle of euro to flash around. So I turned around, walked to Corso Vittorio Emanuel II. Ahhhh here was Zara, Mango, H&M.... First shop I went into was Massimo Dutti. The sale assistant immediately told me that there was 30% off all summer stock. Right - the sales had started!
I bought a few things but to be quite honest I was tired and hungry. For some reason I had forgotten to eat lunch.
I thought I'll try the La Rinascente food court. Well, it was busy and expensive. But I was hungry, so had salad from one of the outlets.
More window shopping. Walking around the opera area. Contemplated seeing if I could tour the opera house but was really feeling exhausted.
Back to hotel for a rest and final packing.
I asked for a recommendation for dinner from hotel concierge and he told me about a nice little restaurant around the corner. I had a wonderful dinner at Hostaria Borromei. I had the pumpkin ravioli and warm chocolate cake. The waiter recommended a delicious wine. I totally recommend this place. The atmosphere was lovely and the service was outstanding. The food delicious.
I retuned back to the hotel a happy, well fed little camper...
Here is a link to my blog post and photos:-
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...-shopping.html
Aug 27th, 2014, 03:25 AM
#93
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So this is it - the last post!
3 July Flight to Adelaide via Dubai.
My flight to Adelaide via Dubai from Malpensa Airport was at 2pm. I had a leisurely breakfast and checked out of the hotel.
Taxi to Cardona train station 10E including 2E tip. The taxi driver was nice enough to drop me at the direct entrance to Malpensa Express. The train to airport. Quick, clean, efficient and without the craziness that is Milano Centrale.
Got to airport in 40 mins. 3 1/2 hours before my flight. Good thing too. The line to get a tax refund was long and slow.
Checked in and ready to return home.
Italy – I still dream of you….
Here is a link to my blog post
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...via-dubai.html
3 July Flight to Adelaide via Dubai.
My flight to Adelaide via Dubai from Malpensa Airport was at 2pm. I had a leisurely breakfast and checked out of the hotel.
Taxi to Cardona train station 10E including 2E tip. The taxi driver was nice enough to drop me at the direct entrance to Malpensa Express. The train to airport. Quick, clean, efficient and without the craziness that is Milano Centrale.
Got to airport in 40 mins. 3 1/2 hours before my flight. Good thing too. The line to get a tax refund was long and slow.
Checked in and ready to return home.
Italy – I still dream of you….
Here is a link to my blog post
http://redsuitcasetravel.blogspot.co...via-dubai.html
Aug 29th, 2014, 04:35 PM
#95
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Ozgirl07-I finally got a chance to finish your fabulous report.
I really enjoyed your blog with the photos.
I share your love of travel beauty, and fashion and coincidence- I am an accountant and a vegetarian too (my luggage is black but favorite color red-so yes- I get you).
For me sometimes its travel solo or don't go, but I prefer going with a friend. My last trip to France I went to an immersion school and had my first experience in a "tour" setting. It turned out great-but I don't think I would like sharing a room with someone I did not know before hand.
I also had a similar experience in Aix as you did in Florence-I think I was the only person at my B&B which made it kind of spooky at night thinking I was the only person in the place.
After reading your report I need to get myself out of France and back to Italy.
Thanks for posting- Ciao
I really enjoyed your blog with the photos.
I share your love of travel beauty, and fashion and coincidence- I am an accountant and a vegetarian too (my luggage is black but favorite color red-so yes- I get you).
For me sometimes its travel solo or don't go, but I prefer going with a friend. My last trip to France I went to an immersion school and had my first experience in a "tour" setting. It turned out great-but I don't think I would like sharing a room with someone I did not know before hand.
I also had a similar experience in Aix as you did in Florence-I think I was the only person at my B&B which made it kind of spooky at night thinking I was the only person in the place.
After reading your report I need to get myself out of France and back to Italy.
Thanks for posting- Ciao
Aug 29th, 2014, 10:44 PM
#96
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Jmct714 thank you. I really enjoyed reading about your trip too.
FabulousFrance I really enjoyed reading about your experience of the french immersion school. I think we could definitely be travel buddies so sign me up for your next trip! I am planning/thinking about taking a trip in Dec for Christmas as I have almost 3 weeks off work. And then another trip in June/July 2015 for which Turkey and Sardinia are high on my travel wish list but I'm also considering South America.
FabulousFrance I really enjoyed reading about your experience of the french immersion school. I think we could definitely be travel buddies
so sign me up for your next trip! I am planning/thinking about taking a trip in Dec for Christmas as I have almost 3 weeks off work. And then another trip in June/July 2015 for which Turkey and Sardinia are high on my travel wish list but I'm also considering South America.
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