We descend from the Sagnino clouds to our home-away on Lake Como. Shimmering water, ever-changing light and soothing views — that’s our little Argegno home-away. Our place is still a crazy 111 steps up from the centro. We count, ascending and descending, as if it has magically changed.  It hasn’t.  We pause to catch our breath and often, a great view. Our work takes us to clanging, honking, shouting cities like Milan, Firenze and Roma. And we’re always happy to return to our luminous “home away” after each fashion-forward fix.

Abbondanza

Sant Abbondio (d. 469) is Como’s patron saint. Celebrating abbondanza! in his name, we sip, savor and explore the local bars and bistros. We’re louche, lazy and love it. The Driver is relaxed. He is chill. Last time I saw him this happy was Ischia, seven weeks ago. Driving can sometimes be harrowing, but this savvy wheelman is a champ. We sip and savor at La P’Osteria and Barchetta, enjoying springtime ambiance. Easter madness has begun, with kids running in dizzying circles. Parents nod and smile, wearily. We sun ourselves over a pizza or two at Hotel Argegno — delicious! And watch the show. A seriously buff film crew zigzags the lake on electric surfboards, standing and waving (!) while filming. The lakeside crowd murmurs, “meraviglioso!” in awe and approval.

Arrivederci

Our seven weeks is at an end, our 50 days almost through. We book our last night at Hotel Borgo Nuovo in Chiaravalle, in the rural willywags of Milan. This friendly boutique hotel features farm-to-table cuisine and comfy-chic ambiance. It’s always an upscale, down-home finale here on the banks of the Esino. Every time you turn a corner, there is another sunrise, sunset or breathtaking view not to be missed. This beloved countryside provides both inspiration and feeling of accomplishment that is unique to travel — best described as utter and total satisfaction. Hey, I said that. Pretty good.

A presto, soon, until next time! •