Category: Uncategorized

October 10, 2016: Here’s an easy way to miss the confusion and frustration when being picked up by friends or family at most US airports — have your ride pick you up at departures drop off and not baggage claim. Arrivals areas at most US airports are usually a “war zone” of cars, confusion, traffic, pushy security folks telling you to move on and airport driving amateurs looking for space. The departures drop off area, especially in the evening hours, is not nearly as busy and more room to maneuver. Another pick up tactic — take a hotel shuttle bus to an off airport site for even easier pick up. May add a few minutes to your day but less hazardous to you and your driver!

October 6, 2016: It’s official — Marriott has gobbled up the Starwood Hotel group — and is now the “world’s largest” lodging chain. Over ONE MILLION ROOMS (scattered worldwide) and currently with 3 different competitive request traveler benefit programs. This merger, or consolidation, may well prove that bigger is not always better?

October 5, 2016: Yup — not unusual to find small narrow — really narrow — streets like this in the small towns along Lake Como.  Bigger goes first  — buses and trucks included!

October 4, 2016: And, if you look closely, with its own private funicular to transport family and friends up the mountain.   

October 3, 2016: The local beach club also serves as a venue for private events — today, preparations for a wedding — and a classic yellow Fiat to drive the bride and groom away after the festivities.

September 29, 2016: You really need at least 2 other people with you in the car to drive in Italy.  The driver drives, another person reads the confusing road signs, and the third person reads the map. Maybe good to have a 4th passenger — reading another map because no 2 road maps are the same!

September 27, 2016: On the east shore of Lake Como — you’ll find the small town of Varenna — a Rick Steves’ favorite — and I am told this little very red Italian motor car is his when he visits!

September 26, 2016: Lake Como — Life slows down even more on Sunday — walk along the Como Lake side, long leisurely lunch at grandmothers and then equally as long — if not longer siesta.  Aaah Italy.