Tiny cappuccinos, Caprese salads, and all the wine you could want

just some of what Italy has to offer

 For some, the process of deciding where to go, once you know that you’re ready to go “abroad,” can feel daunting. On the flip side, there can be SO many places that you want to go, it can feel impossible to narrow it down to a single country. However, Italy is one of those places that even a seasoned traveler, would have a difficult time passing up an opportunity to visit, and when a really good flight deal presents itself, one needs only to say “Si!”

Our Italy story begins early in the year, when Emirates Airlines, runs their Valentine's Day specials. *Tip, for those of us that don’t live near to a major international airport, it can often be much more cost-effective, to fly to another city, and then jump across the pond from there. Emirates sometimes offers 2 for 1 flight deals, and while you may be able to find more traditional flight deals for the same or even less cost, I GUARANTEE that the flight experience won't be as nice as the coach experience on an Emirates flight.

For the price of $850, for two people (you heard me right, $425 pp), we flew round-trip from New York to Milan Italy, and we redeemed Southwest points to fly from Kansas City to New York, so it was a win-win for us. I would encourage you to sign-up for their email, so you can take advantage of this, and their other promotions.

I don’t have any photos from our flight, but it was the most elegant flight experience I’ve ever had! The flight crew was amazing, the seats were roomy and comfortable (even in coach), and the food was served with linen napkins and chilled silverware…better than some restaurant experiences.

Points are a travelers best friend.

The most expensive part of traveling isn’t the flights, it’s the accommodations. Despite the variety of affordable options available that can significantly reduce this particular pain point, there is still a benefit to nice hotels, which is priceless when travel weary.

Loyalty points are a lifesaver where hotels are concerned. To this end, I recommend putting all of your eggs in one basket where hotel chains are concerned and take advantage of available multipliers that may be offered. For us, Marriott is where it’s at, and point redemption has allowed us to stay in hotels MUCH nicer than what we could otherwise afford.

With that in mind, stumbling off of an overnight flight, groggy, in need of a shower, and luggage in tow, a nice hotel that can easily be found and has a staff that’s ready to assist you when you’re not thinking clearly, is the best way to arrive in a new place. Arriving at the Boscolo Milano was like having someone give you a glass of cold water on a hot summer day, and then offer to think for you. I struggle with decision making, until after I’ve been able to shower and change my clothes, so the fewer hoops I have to jump through after my flight lands, the better.

UPDATE: The Boscolo Milano is now the Palazzo Matteotti Milan

What trip to Milan would be complete without a visit to the Duomo?

Our time in Milan was very limited, but it would be remiss to visit such a city and not pay homage to at least one of the jewels in its crown. Fortunately for us, the Duomo di Milano was just a short walk from our hotel. Unfortunately, it was pouring down rain, and the line to get inside was more than an hour-long, but the floor by itself, was more than worth the wait!

With our feet firmly planted on the Italian soil, and a lovely day and a half in Milan under our belts, we’re ready for our next destination, Lake Como.

Do you have questions or need advice? Comment below!

Italy - Part 1 of 4