Hotel Nazionale

How to prevent vehicle traffic...

by mapakettle

Ma Kettle and I were puzzled as to how taxis were able to enter pedestrian areas, when all entrances were blocked off by metal and cement pillars. Now, we're not stupid people, and don't get obsessed by many things, but this did have us stumped.

So, I did what all people do who aren't obsessed...I waited, and watched, and waited some more, camped out along side the metal barrier.

Finally, a white taxi was coming our way, I readied my trusty camera, focused, and a lady pushing a baby stroller stopped immediately in front of me, and started chastising her other two children for something or other. No matter, for the taxi now appeared on the 'other side' of the barrier. Drats !! Missed it.

However, looking at the site of the metal barrier, I saw it was completely retracted into the roadway. Apparently, taxis are equipped with an electronic beam that activates the switch which allows this 'gate' to automatically lower itself below the road surface, thus permitting the vehicle to pass unimpeded overhead. Ingenious.

In Canada, this would not work well for long, due to our heavy frost in the winter, which throws all construction off kilter.

Very interesting. Hey, what can I say, small things amuse small minds.

Desenzano

by SwedeSarah

Desenzano is the biggest town by Garda Lake. Therefore, it's not as cute and picturesque as many other towns around the lake. It's still pretty here with the big mountains in the distant.

I think this place is suitable to stay at if you plan to make daytrips. Perhaps you might get bored if you decide to stay put. There are many interesting places to visit nearby, such as Verona and Milan. The communications are great as the Milan - Venice train stops at Desenzano.

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