So it may be a bit presumptuous to start off with Part 1, but since we had such a great time on this Italy trip I can undoubtedly state we will be back for sure. It was Easter break holiday for schools and since we had already planned major long haul trips to Japan in summer and USA in fall we therefore decided to try an extended driving trip. Chika drove down with the boy on the Wednesday evening and then on Friday morning we drove to Lake Como. Our trip over took us through the mountain passes, what Chika then coined the “spaghetti” roads which has so many turnbacks, everyone but me had was getting carsick. On the bright side, the alps were gorgeous, the sun was shining, and the boys fell asleep allowing us to make the whole trip non-stop. We arrived late afternoon at our accommodation (up another winding road off the lake, but only 5 minutes off the main road). The view of the lake and the mountains was fabulous. We had a simple 2 bedroom apartment — it worked out great to allow the boys to have their own room, but we all could get together for nice breakfasts on the terrace with views of the lake.

On the second day. we went to see our friend Manu who lives close to Como center, and stopped on the way at a park in Lenno where the boys fell in love with the dandelions. After meeting up in the city, we had great meal at a lovely restaurant on a quiet square with some of the best tiramisu we’ve ever had.

On the last day, we decided to stop at Villa del Balbianello. We even took a short boat ride there to at least get a short time on the lake itself. Amazing garden and house developed by a cardinal in the 17th century. Will need to go back for the full tour. Afterwards we ended up skipping the tourist pizza and went straight to La Fabbrica Del Gelato for a different lunch. Chika and Kai even had seconds after their doubles (and then Teo I think stole most of Chika’s).

Finally, it was time to drive home. After crossing the mountain passes, the weather went from 24C and sunny to 2C and snowing! On top of it, I had wanted to wait to Germany to get more gas and it seems there aren’t so many stations along the highway as in the US. By the time we reached the station it had been registering 0KM left for the last 10km. Chika was not so amused, but we made it home safe and sound. It’s less than 24 hours, but I am ready to go back again!