Allison Mosher's Story
As we entered the city, our guide pointed out Villa Oleandra—George Clooney’s famous lakeside home, purchased in 2002 for $20 million. It’s now on the market for $110 million, complete with an annex villa next door.
We then boarded a boat for a breezy, cool ride across the lake to Bellagio. Along the way, we enjoyed views of elegant villas along the shoreline, including Villa del Balbianello, the filming location of Anakin and Padmé’s wedding in Star Wars: Episode II.
Bellagio did not disappoint. We wandered its steep, narrow streets, admired the colourful buildings, and browsed local shops. The many stairs and uphill climbs were a workout, but the views made it worthwhile. We wrapped up our visit with lunch and, of course, a stop for some gelato before returning by boat to Como.
Next, we boarded the bus again and crossed the border into Switzerland for a visit to Lugano. Our visit was short, but we enjoyed strolling through the charming town center, with its cobbled streets, upscale boutiques, and the unmistakable aroma of Swiss chocolate in the air.
At 8:30 p.m., after a peaceful bus ride back, we returned to Milan with tired feet and phones full of photos. In just one day, we experienced ancient Roman roots, lakeside luxury, and Swiss charm.
What stood out to me the most was the history. In Nova Scotia, we have beautiful landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, but walking through towns like Como and Bellagio was a completely different experience. The streets, buildings, and architecture date back centuries, so hard to believe.
Travel Tip: If you're visiting northern Italy, don’t miss this day tour. It’s the perfect blend of history, beauty, and adventure!