The streets are narrow and paved of stone. The smell of espresso and pastries fills the air. There are lots of little squares and piazzas dotting this small medieval old quarter (centro storico) here in the town of Como. But one of the things I like most of all, and that I always relate to Europe is the presence of church bells. Such a wonderful sound that not only soothes the senses, but also gives the time of day, which by the way is one of the original main purposes for which they exist. Here in Como’s centro storico, which is approximately 1 mile square, there are at least three churches, one of which I can hear the bells from my apartment.
The apartment I found is really fantastic. It is a newly renovated 2 bedroom apartment that has windows that open out onto 2 separate little courtyards (typical of living in urban Europe). Luckily, the courtyards are usually very quiet, although in the early evenings, with the windows open, you can hear the constant chatter of a grandmother and a few wailing kids, and an occasional barking dog, all of which gives me a feeling of being part of the local neighborhood. I found this apartment on the airbnb website, which I found quite easy to navigate and gave lots of info about the apartment in the way of photos and reviews from previous renters. The manager, Luca, met me at the train station and walked me to the apartment, where he gave me the full tour and showed me where to take the recyclables (they are very serious about recycling in Europe), and gave some recommendations of sights and restaurants. The refrigerator and cabinets were stocked with plenty of food for several snacks and breakfasts, often sam able to have a and a new packet of coffee so I can make my own espresso.
Meandering through the streets of the old town is quite pleasant. Automobiles are banned from most areas and there are not the overwhelming crowds of tourists like you see in Rome, Florence, and Venice. There are lots of cafes and bars and resaurants, some with outdoor seating. The locals are very accommodating and easy to talk to; I have found it quite easy to strike up a conversation whenever I drop into a cafe/bar for espresso or a beer. It doesn’t matter much whether we speak the same language, just knowing a few words of eachothers ling often works just fine. I like to joke about how bad politics are in both our countries.

Como apartment overlooking the interior courtyard

Como apartment overlooking the interior courtyard

Como apartment

Como apartment

Como apartment

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como

Views around the town of Como