We crossed over into Italy and you could feel the vibe change from the fresh and natural feel of Switzerland to the Mediterranean relaxed feel. One thing we learned on the bus ride as we entered into Italy is how people talk about the north versus the south. Just like the US there is a bit of a rivalry between the two geographic regions. In the north of Italy, people often joke about how things are more efficient, organized, and “businesslike.” In the south, you hear a lot of stereotypes about a more laid-back, passionate, and sometimes chaotic lifestyle. Southerners are said to be all about family, community, and enjoying life, while up north, they’re viewed as more focused on work and precision. Funny how that’s similar to the US as well!
Our lunch stop was not far from the border, along Lake Como, which is one of the deepest lakes in Italy and shaped like an upside down Y. Lake Como has been a popular spot for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. The area’s been around since Roman times, and even back then, people were coming here for the views and the mild weather. Over the years, rich families and artists built some pretty impressive villas around the lake, and a lot of those have stuck around. In the 1800s, the place really started to become a hot spot for European elites looking to get away from city life, and it’s still got that luxurious vibe today. It’s also home to the silk industry in Italy.
On the way into town:
Culturally, it’s a mix of old-school Italian charm and modern flair. The small towns around the lake still have these old churches, tiny local shops, and family-run restaurants. But there’s also a more modern side to it — like high-end shops and art galleries, which make sense since people like George Clooney come here to chill. He, Sylvester Stallone, Robert Pattinson, and other Hollywood A-listers have homes here.
We had to park the bus outside the city and walk a way into the center city. Como outlawed cars and vehicles here a few years back to make the center city more pedestrian family, which was definitely to our benefit! Along the way we passed a square that had a statue commemorating Alessandro Volta, who invented batteries.
Along the way we caught glimpses of the narrow streets and cobblestones, and also practiced wearing our crossbody bags up front to avoid pickpockets as we get to the bigger cities.
Tour guides Kaja and Vanja
We had free time here, and fortunately the morning rain has cleared off and the sun is peaking out. Our launch area for free time was right in the middle of the old town area in front of the cathedral and just steps from the lake.
The Como Cathedral (Duomo di Como) is a beautiful mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles right in the middle of Como. It took a long time to build, starting in the 14th century and finishing in the 18th century, so it has a lot of different looks. Inside, it has beautiful stained glass windows and artwork.
During free time Mrs. Kaemba and Mrs. Graham went to find the Como soccer stadium, then checked out a cool sculpture on the lakefront. Mrs. Graham sure looks happy to be in Italy!
A few students tried the local dish which is a risotto dish with fish fresh from the lake, others had pizza, a few had pasta, and quite a few had gelato! The eating is good here in Italy!
And of course there was shopping!
Then it was back through the pretty streets to the bus!
We heard from a lot of students they wished we had more time here, but it’s back in the bus as we make our way to Venice for the night!
Looks amazing!
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