The Human Touch
In contrast, my stay at the Locanda Pandenus on the second night, recommended by Franziska Basso, a Milan-based travel designer for Dreamsteam Exclusive Travel (a member of the luxury Virtuoso network), provided a truly homely experience rather than a typical hotel stay. Located above a restaurant, this intimate establishment offers only four bedrooms accessible through a small staircase. Despite being situated in the lively Brera neighborhood, known for its boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, the Locanda Pandenus offered a serene and cozy atmosphere, allowing me to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
To my delight, the Duomo was a mere 10-minute journey from my accommodation. I was fortunate to have a chance to visit it again, as Ms. Basso had thoughtfully provided me with a link to prebook my tickets. Unlike my virtual travel assistant, who redirected me to the Expedia app when I inquired about booking in advance, Ms. Basso’s assistance enabled me to avoid the long queues and spend over an hour admiring the cathedral’s magnificent stained glass windows and archaeological ruins.
Ms. Basso’s itinerary proved to be more convenient as each destination was within close proximity to the next, allowing ample time for exploration. Additionally, she pointed out noteworthy places along the way to various sites, such as the Villa Invernizzi, an elegant mansion with a garden housing a flamboyance of pink flamingos.
Moreover, Ms. Basso ensured that I experienced lesser-known attractions by guiding me on a 25-minute walk outside the touristy city center to Leonardo da Vinci’s vineyard. While most visitors flock to see the artist’s renowned mural “The Last Supper,” few venture to this 15th-century private Milanese residence tucked away in the lush gardens of Casa degli Atellani. Sitting in front of Leonardo’s original vine stock, I was transported to the Renaissance era as the audio guide narrated intriguing stories about the property and its connections to the artist.
As I concluded my visit during the golden hour, I headed towards the canals of the Navigli district for an aperitivo, indulging in the Italian tradition of enjoying a pre-dinner drink accompanied by a small bite. It was here that I reflected on my trip and compared the two itineraries. Undoubtedly, Ms. Basso’s personalized service stood out, emphasizing the significance of human interaction. Prior to sharing her suggestions, she inquired about my preferences, and I had full confidence in her expertise and local knowledge.
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