Northern Italy/Dubai May 2013
A VIRTUOSO work trip to Northern Italy (Milan, Lake Como, Venice) & Dubai - 5 Star all the way - An AMAZING trip!
In May I spent 10 inspiring days re-discovering Northern Italy. I flew with Emirates from Brisbane to Milan via Dubai and returned home from Venice.
MILAN - My first night was spent at the stunning Hotel Principe di Savoia Hotel! Dominating Piazza della Repubblica, the luxury five-star Hotel has been the home for cosmopolitan society in Milan since the 1920's. This luxury hotel offers a winning combination of Old World luxury, together with the latest technology. It is conveniently located in the Milan city centre. This property oozes with charm & class! Acanto Restaurant is personally highly recommended! A very romantic setting!
I spent the following morning on a 3 hour walking tour of Milan which was very interesting especially walking past “the best of the best” stores when it comes to fashion. A walking tour is a great way to explore a city.
My next night was at the Four Seasons Hotel Milano. A 15th-century convent (with loads of character) transformed into an urban sanctuary of luxury and comfort! This hotel is in a great location in Milan CBD.
LAKE COMO - A 90 minute private transfer from Milan CBD to Lake Como. I travelled onto to the little village of Tremezzo where my accommodation for two nights was at the amazing GH Tremezzo Palace. Grand Hotel Tremezzo is one of the oldest and loveliest luxury hotels on Lake Como, an authentic Art Nouveau palace that offers a warm inviting welcome and the delights of a true 5-star holiday. From its unique lakeside position it offers unparalleled views of Bellagio and the stunning Grigne mountains. Tremezzo is a great base to be on Lake Como. The beauty of Lake Como is best appreciated from the water and a variety of boats run regularly between Tremezzo to Como and all the other pretty lakeside towns in between. On the way you can admire gorgeous villas of the rich and famous!
I was privileged to experience the splendour, the grandeur, the intrigue and the magic of Villa d'Este- an opulent hotel overlooking glorious Lake Como. Hailed as one of the best hotels in the world, this famous resort destination has been widely praised for its beautiful gardens, exquisite cuisine, impeccable décor and extraordinary hospitality. Set on the banks of one of the most romantic lakes in the world, Villa d'Este was built in 1568 as the summer residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio.
VENICE – Train travel was my mode of transport from Como to Venice St Lucia Station. This is a great way to see the countryside. Upon arrival in Venice I was transported by a private water taxi to my hotel. My 3 days in Venice saw me enjoying a hosted dinner at Hotel Luna Baglioni, a hosted lunch at Hotel Cipriani & high tea at Hotel Daniele. Three stunning Virtuoso properties. During my free time I clocked up many miles walking as I loved re-discovering this amazing destination. One of my highlights was participating in a private walking tour of Venice conducted by a knowable local (retired history teacher) One cannot visit Venice without touring the Doges Palace. Another highlight was catching the ferry across to the island of Murano. I went early (before the crowds) and found it to be a pretty little spot. Jewellery here is stunning. You won’t find any imitations "made in China" here!
DUBAI – One full day was spent here which saw me enjoying lunch at the Burj Al Arab. The distinctive sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab is more than just a stunning hotel, it is a symbol of modern Dubai. Repeatedly voted the world's most luxurious hotel, this magnificent property offers one the finest service and facilities throughout. Burj Al Arab suite-only accommodation offers discreet check-in within your room, a private reception on every floor and a host of personal butlers. The best of the best! After lunch I was whisked off to experience a 4WD sand dune tour (not for the faint hearted...but loads of fun!) followed with a BBQ in the desert under the Arabian night sky enjoying local delicacies.
I LOVE ITALY and always have. The destination ticks all the boxes for a perfect holiday! I can’t wait to return!