The Italian Job

Max and I spent this past weekend in Milan, Italy looking for our second home away from homes.

I know it sounds glamorous-- setting up houses and living in two of Europe's most famous cities, Barcelona and Milan--but I do not believe it will be as exciting as it seems.

At the risk of offending any northern Italian readers, I will confess to not being impressed with Milan. With the exception of a small area around the duomo di Milano, I found the city to be drab, dirty, noisy, and confusing.

There. I said it. I have a poor first impression of the Lombard metropolis, famous for its ridiculously pricey fashion houses. After visiting the city, I am very happy our primary home will be located in Barcelona, which I find more beautiful and livable by any comparison.

Nevertheless, the weekend in Milan wasn't a total loss. Max and I found a lovely apartment--a spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, located just outside the downtown area and close the all-important public transportation. Perhaps with time and a little education of all things Milan, I will come to like the city more and if not, I'll still have my Barcelona retreat.

Ok, so the life may not be glamorous, but it's still pretty darn cool.