(Click on an image to see a larger version. Click on the "++" link to see a huge full-size version.)
++ A typical train station in Bologna. Italian trains had graffiti, but it tended to be big, colorful, and reasonably artistic... |
++ The train station in Milan. In stark contrast to most other Italian train stations, Milan stressed style. |
++ Looking back at the Eurostar train we rode in the Milan station. The glass and steel structure was open on one end... |
++ ...and opened into this traditional stone structure on the other end. |
++ Outside the Milan station, looking back. |
++ Outside the Milan station, looking forward. |
++ We stopped for lunch at McDonalds, conveniently across the street from the station. This 3-level McDonalds was the nicest one I have ever seen. After getting our food upstairs, we went downstairs to this nice wood and plants decor dining room. |
++ Even the restroom in McDonalds had a flair for style. Deep blue lights illuminated the stalls, giving it a Star-Trek glow. |
++ Back in the train station, there was a TGV (French bullet train) next to our train. |
++ A rural lake, north of Milan. |
++ As we got closer to the Swiss border, the Alps became increasingly rugged. It gave me a new appreciation for Hannibal's achievement... |
++ Along the way, I had an almost uncanny ability to take pictures at the exact moment that poles went whizzing by the window at 90mph... |