January 9, 2014

Milano!  We got here mid-afternoon a bit worse for the wear.

We woke to a heavy, cold fog in Verona, packed our bags (now weighing close to 10 tons each) and headed for the train station.  The time table showed a train departing at 11:02AM for Milan on Track 06.  There was time to spare and also a little Plexiglas kiosk to sit in while waiting for the train.  At 11:15AM we were still waiting.  Also at 11:15AM my butt had turned to a solid block of ice.

A helpful conductor pointed out the fine print on the time table clearly showed that the 11:02AM train only ran on Saturdays and holidays.  Also we needed to reserve our first class seats with a ticket agent, back in the main terminal.  I thawed out in the snack bar with the bags while Jack got it sorted out.  I need to mention that if you're in the Verona train station and need to use the ladies room, it takes 0.80 euros exact change.  

The dense cold fog finally lifts as we head west.  It's a much prettier ride from Verona to Milan than from Venice to Verona.  To the north are the snow-capped Dolomites and clear blue lakes.  Lots of beautiful  farms are everywhere.  This looks to be a more prosperous area.

Milan's train depot is HUGE.  And gorgeous, resembling a church more than a train station.  We met Manuel, an agent for the Air BnB host.  He popped out of a doorway at the same time the cab screeched to a halt.  We're staying in the Strawberry House, a tiny little 300-square-foot flat three floors up that is lavishly decorated to include three Murano glass chandeliers.

Bedroom Chandelier

Tiny Kitchen/Dining Room Chandelier

And inexplicably, a Tiny Bathroom Chandelier

Across the street is a nice restaurant that was just closing when we walked in.  The owner took pity  on us and accommodated us with not one, but two huge pizzas.   There's still some translation problems when it comes to ordering food.

Tomorrow we're meeting with a guide who will show us through the fashion district in Milan.  I've read there are some real bargains to be found but they're not readily apparent to greenhorn touristas.  This should be interesting.