Travel isn't just about ticking off destinations. It's about forging connections, discovering new perspectives, and learning about yourself. As the Persian proverb goes, "If you truly want to know someone, travel with them." It's through shared experiences, both good and bad, that we truly understand each other.
I have never met "Angelo" in person.
I'd always been a hotel kind of guy, accustomed to the familiar routine of check-in, bellhops, and room service. Renting a condo was a leap of faith, a departure from my comfort zone. But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to try renting a condo. It was a bit of a gamble, a departure from my usual travel routine.
But hey, there's always a first time for everything, right?
Arriving in Milan(1) after nearly four decades, I was eager to reconnect with the iconic Duomo di Milano(2) and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II(3). These landmarks had been etched into my childhood memories, and I couldn't wait to experience their grandeur once again.
I booked a cozy apartment within walking distance of the Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Angelo, my host, was incredibly helpful, providing detailed instructions and ensuring a smooth arrival. It was refreshing to receive such personalized attention, a stark contrast to the impersonal nature of typical hotel stays.
After a brief delay at the airport due to lost luggage and a car rental mix-up, I finally hit the road in a Volvo XC90(4). While it wasn't my first choice, it was still a comfortable and reliable vehicle. I couldn't help but dream of cruising the streets of Milan in an Italian sports car, perhaps a Lamborghini Urus(5).
Angelo's thoughtful planning made my arrival in Milan even smoother. He'd even secured a parking spot, a lifesaver in the bustling city. His detailed instructions, from luggage drop-off to apartment access, were incredibly helpful. As I navigated the chilly Milanese streets, I couldn't help but appreciate his warm hospitality. And of course, his recommendations for local eateries were spot on
The apartment was spotless and ready for my family's arrival. Angelo had thought of everything, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay.
We were lucky enough to be staying right near the Duomo, though it felt a bit hidden behind the buildings.
Our Milan adventure was supposed to be a relaxing recovery period before our skiing trip to Val d'Isère(6). Angelo's apartment quickly became our home away from home, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
As we prepared to leave for the slopes, I couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia. One last glance at the Duomo and the bustling city streets, and then we were off on our next adventure.
From a luxurious Volvo to a medical ambulance. What a whirlwind of experiences! The unexpected COVID diagnosis, after a long wait at the airport, must have been quite a shock.
Ah, yes, the Volvo key! Quite a surreal experience, having the police confiscate your rental car and then having the rental company retrieve it for sanitization. It's a testament to the extraordinary times we've lived through.
A week passed, and uncertainty loomed large. We were left in the dark, unsure about the next steps and when we could finally return home. (We did not know we are still positive, or finally positively toward negative(9))
(c) I personally took these photos and own the
rights to them. Please feel free to use them as you wish.
(1) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milan
(2) https://www.duomomilano.it/en/
(3) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galleria_Vittorio_Emanuele_II
(4) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volvo_XC90
(5) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lamborghini_Urus
(6) https://www.valdisere.com/en/
(8) https://www.cervinia.it/en/skirama
(9) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gJdf7LyGpg
(10) https://www.kitzbuehel.com/en/sport/skiing/
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