I had one day in Lugano but I was sort of tired so I decided to take it easy. I saw a couple of churches, including a very old one with beautiful biblical paintings on the walls. Walking along the lake was gorgeous, especially going through a park they had there. It was quite hot, as Lugano is south, close to Italy. There was also an outdoor public pool nearby and I so wished I had brought my swimming gear with me.
I had a plan- I was going to the funicular that goes up Mount Bre. I got a sweet deal with my Eurail pass. I was impressed with how high the funicular went! Once we got to the top, it was straight to the viewpoint. The view from up there was amazing- city, lake, mountains. Such a beautiful area (see the blog cover picture). There was a slight haze, which made it look particularly beautiful. There are hiking paths so I walked for a bit. There's also a restaurant where the view is. I imagine it would be lovely having dinner there at sunset.
Lugano is on quite a hill and they love their funiculars so i took another one up to the train station, which close to my hotel. When I got back I was told I was upgraded from a dorm to my own room. Yay! It was beautiful- big bed, balcony. So I had a beer on the balcony, enjoying the view. It was pretty good, especially of the city. The lake was partially blocked by buildings and trees. I also watched the only English channel- CNN. Obama's speech on the Middle East and North Africa was on. They also talked a lot about the French former head of IMF. A girl in my dorm in Bern was from France and she was embarrassed by it all. It was interesting watching the court case for the allowance of his bail. Anyway, like I said i took it easy, so there isn't much else to say. Except that I'm going to Italy!!! I'm on the train to Venice! I've seen quite a few ads featuring George Clooney, I must be close to lake Como :p
Italy here I come! I'm praying it's not *too* hot.
Ranelle