We had pre-purchased rail tickets prior to our trip which made travel super easy and guaranteed seating during busy summer travel. The Milano Centrale train station was hopping and definitely has the feel of place where the center of Europe converges and travelers from all over the world pass through.
The train station was hot and we arrived a little early so passed some time in a lavishly air-conditioned Sephora to cool down. We then people watched as we waited for our train to arrive that would take us to Stresa on Lake Maggiore.
It was absolutely fun to people-watch at the train station, busy with the hub-bub of summer travel.
As we waited for our train to make it to the station, we laughed when we heard them announce ‘Stresa’ – realizing this whole time we had been saying ‘Stressa’ – like how we felt prior to leaving. Stresa (stray-sah) had a much better feel to it.
We boarded our train and for only $10 Euro each were in the first class train cabin with tons of room and more reclining seats. You are required to store you luggage above your head on the racks and I am thankful for Dana’s height to get both of our bags above our heads. And I am IMPRESSED that she can lift hers above her head that far – she went with the ‘I am 50 and want more options’ method of packing this trip and is carrying around more than usual. She is up for the task though and willing to carry the best up and down any stair case and over her head at any time. I would never last – but size is all relative right? Our luggage kind of looks like us standing next to each other.
The train ride was only about an hour and a very smooth ride. Soon enough we were in Stresa and easily took a cab to our lakeside room. Although the decor in the room is a little gaudy, we coudn’t be happier with the balcony and views. We are excited to have the next 3 days and nights here!
By now we were ready for a little lunch. Dana had remembered a great place when she was here 2 years ago with her daughter, Megan. It did not disappoint. We enjoyed a most delicious lunch under the shade, completely thrilled with our lunch selections and Chardonnay selection.
Such fresh, local ingredients. The tomatoes were unreal as were all of the flavors together. We were in heaven. #lunch #winning