“Hugo per te.” A cocktail based on prosecco, elderflower syrup, sparkling water, and mint leaves mixed in a white wine glass was brought to the high table where I was sitting. Grey and quiet Monday morning. Never loved it. I’d thought that a bit of alcohol could have given me more spirit to start the day where I took a remote working day from the mountain. The bartender went back to clean his bar and arrange the bottles sorted in a way that I had thought by the size of the labels. I sipped my Hugo and let one of the smaller ice cube slipped into my mouth and crushed it between my teeth.
Read MoreEvidently, with only three cannons, the people of Altamura had defended the city from the siege of the Bourbon's troops in 1799. What are the odds the city could have won? Zero. The people were raped, humiliated, and looted. It was completely a total lost. Having little knowledge about the city, it was actually supremely ironic that earlier within the year of the siege, the city had just actually proclaimed its Republic and planted the Tree of Freedom as the symbols of the French Revolution, to flourish the freedom, equality, and fraternity. However, despite the lost, they still fought for their life, struggled to survive, and now it has become a self-prosperous town. It even influenced the whole Italy and its unity in 1860 with their spirit and courage. They undoubtedly deserve to be called as "The Lioness of Puglia”, a proud and rebellious city.
Read MoreThe sound of the trams passing all over the cities, the hustle and bustle of the shopping plazas and streets, and crowd of people commuting to work are everyday views in Milan as the capital of business of Italy. We spend most of our time at work cramped with the meeting shcedule and spend overtime without realizing that our nerves get strained. Weekend always comes like a hero in the movie who always comes late when the world is on the verge of appocalypse.
Valmalenco would be a splendid choice to go for a weekend trip, to escape from the reality, and to relieve the stress. It is well-connected from Milan by public transportation in only 2-3 hours. The view is top notch as it is surrounded by the Italian Alps. The ambience is tranquil and sort of hidden where not many people are aware of it, even the Milanese, which are the reason it is my favorite spot to hike.
Tighten your shoes, get your hiking pole ready, and let’s set out.
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