Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Day 6:Invitation to Bergamo

A coworker who overheard us talking excitedly about the snow forecast has checked some places near Milan where we can frolic in the snow for a day. Unfortunately, there's still no snow in places near Milan. So, he has invited us to visit Lake Como and Bergamo City (40km from Milan) on Sunday. Unfortunately, I am the only one in our group who has not been to Lake Como(sigh!), we will visit only Bergamo because according to him we cannot visit 2 places for only half a day (he will meet us after lunch).

Although I'm a bit disappointed to not being able to see the beauty of Lake Como with my own eyes, I'm still looking forward to see Bergamo City. A quick Google check says it's a city of 2 cities -- Citta alta (upper city) and Citta bassa (lower city).

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Day 5:NCR Milan

It's my first day at the office. It's almost 45minutes (I think) from the apartment to the office. From the office, we take a bus, catch the train, then take the shuttle from the train station to the office, and vice versa. I now understand why people in big cities are always in a hurry. Their schedule revolves around the schedules of public transportation.

The office was still quiet when we arrived. I was assigned at a table with a view of the parking lot, the rotunda, and the alps, which is not bad. :) Everybody started arriving and some said hello to the new arrival. I can really say that most Italians are good-natured.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Day 4: Authentic Italian Cuisine


We were invited for lunch at a coworker's home in Casatenovo, Brianza; a few minutes by train from Milan. It was my first taste of authentic Italian cuisine, Italian hospitality, and everything Italian. The food was great and our hosts were very accomodating and geniunely interested to get to know us. I'm also glad to have met them.  To make a long story short, I had a great time. :)

They were really expecting us!

Appetizers: Prosciutto, Salami, Assorted Mushrooms, Pane (bread)

Wine!



Saturday, November 13, 2010

Day 3: Jet Lag

So, this is what jet lag feels?:) I think I'll be staying indoors today. Sleep and work on some tasks so I can go to the places I've been planning to see. Words are very elusive to me right now.

Day 2: Milan Malpensa Airport

The plane arrived 15minutes earlier than its expected arrival time. The pilot informed us that it's 4degrees outside. But, I wouldn't know how cold it is because I haven't been to any cold country before. I had a lot on my mind. Will I go through custom check? Will I know how to claim my luggage? They're simple things that I shouldn't be worried about, but this is my first time in a foreign country. So, I guess I'm excused to worry about these petty things.

Passing through customs was a breeze, unlike what I experienced in my own country (it's another story). Getting my luggage was okay. The trolleys required a coin so in order to be used by arriving passengers. Fortunately, I was able to carry my two luggages by myself.


From the airport, I was met and driven to the apartment where our group will be staying. It took Stefano 1hour and 30minutes to drive us. I was wondering how long it would take us to arrive to our destination if his driving speed wasn't like this:

Thankfully, we arrived safe and sound. Along the way, I knew he was wondering why I was always taking pictures of buildings and whatnots. I heard and understood a little of what he was talking to my manager while they were talking on the phone. I really like their buildings/apartments here with different colors.


Ciao, Milano!

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Day 1: Hong Kong International Airport

Thirty days in Milan, Italy for training, which is really work. I'm not complaining because after 3 long years, this trip finally pushed through. Today is the first day and I just arrived in Hong Kong International Airport, which operates one of the world's largest passenger terminal buildings according to wikipedia. I wish to share some pictures I took during my flight, but due to travel-related stress, I totally forgot where I placed the card reader.

I haven't explored the airport yet, so I probably should get going while my laptop still has enough battery. I'm still searching for a charging station. Before I sign off, I'd also like to take note that my wifi experience here is excellent!

Ciao! A prego Milano! (just practicing some Italian. not even sure if I said it right) *smiling*