The Beautiful Lake Como

In every place, there is a story. If there is one thing I have learned during this study abroad program in Italy, it is that every place you visit (big or small) has a history, a story, and a vision to offer. For me, Lake Como, Italy not only blessed me with it’s own history, but allowed me to create a bit of my own.


The view from the lake was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. Mountains floated through the fog in the backdrop; the clear lake was calm, flapping lightly against the stone steps that lay in front of me. Birds chirped as people talked. I walked along the rocky coastline with my pants dragging in the sand and rocks. I would have to wash them later. My hair blew in the breeze, waving back at the people I passed. Children laugh and the wind blows. I feel a sense of peace wash over me as the water washes over the rocks. The water touches my toes; it is cold. As my toes tingle with the sensation of the chill water, I wiggle them gently into the rock. It is cool where my toes nestle, but my mind flutters to the view in front of me. I forget all about the cold water, cool breeze, and background conversations. Soon, it is just me and the lake. No worries cloud my thoughts, no feelings cloud my judgment; it is just me, the lake, and one hell of a view.

It is in this moment that I realize how great my life is. I walked into this city as a foreigner searching for the reason everyone raves of such a place. After experiencing the views alone, this place as the power to hypnotize people with its beauty and treasure. More than once, I found myself stopping in the middle of the street just to take in the scenery. Although my touristy attire and picture taking activities were quite obvious, what’s not so obvious was the relationship I developed with Lake Como during my stay. This was more than just a visit for me; it was an awakening. Throughout all the hectic schedules, homework assignments, major papers to write, projects to complete, and classes to attend, this was the one place I was able to completely forget about it all and simply enjoy it for exactly what it is. I found myself climbing hills that my fear of heights would have never dared see me climb. I spoke to locals without any hesitation. I ordered the four scoops of gelato I wanted rather than feeling self conscious about how much I ate. I ran along the lake without my headphones and truly experienced the lake by scent, taste, and sound. I did the things I would do at home, but have been too preoccupied or scared or nervous or apprehensive to do yet abroad. Lake Como allowed me to see past those obstacles and embark on a journey throughout its beautiful landscape, one  more fulfilling than anything I have experienced yet.


I came to Lake Como as a stranger, but left a friend.

The beautiful Lake Como...

The Duomo of Lake Como.

Inside the Duomo...

Another look inside the Duomo...

Liz and I braved our fear of heights and took this train up to the top of the mountain.

Yes, it was this steep THE ENTIRE WAY.

The view from the top.

(So worth the scare...)

Proof that I did it!

The gate to the edge of the world. Literally...

Another view of the lake.

(From the ground this time...)

From the other side of the Lake.

The Lake Como water. It was literally this clear regardless if you were on shore or in the middle of the lake.

Even foggy, the beautiful town of Bellagio did not disappoint.

Cheesin' in Bellagio.

My friend Liz and I in the beautiful Bellagio.

One of my best friends here -- my Alabamian Allison (can't miss the Crimson red) and I during our last night in Como.

Lake Como is my favorite place I have visited so far. Whether it was the two great friends I had alongside me or the amazing weather and views, this place is a must-do for anyone visiting Europe. Such an amazing place with so much to offer, see, and experience. And we were only visiting in the off season!

Look for a new blog this week with pictures from my second gourmet dinner! Yum! :)

Until next time --- Ciao!