Noticeboard

Please ask a question and send it to the noticeboard. Your message will not appear immediately, but as soon as we have checked its content we will post it onto the site, ready for reply. Replies are welcomed from all our readers. As this is not an automatic system, we would be grateful if you specify to which notice you are answering. You can add your name, or initials, or no identification, as you wish. We do not publish e-mail addresses here; if you require personal contacts, use the Classifieds section. And thankyou to all those who ask questions, and thankyou especially to all those who provide answers!

We have divided the Noticeboard into sections for easier reading (number of questions in brackets). The most recent questions are the last in each section (we'll start putting dates on them).

Sections

Accommodation/hotels/campsites 

Ä Howdy, My wife and I are old and poor and dumb.  We don’t smell bad but we live on a small social security check and that’s all we have.

We need to rent a very modest and cheap apartment in northern Italy next spring.

Can someone offer and suggestions? Reply .....

I can offer you a suggestion. I would look for houses outside of Milan as they will be the most affordable. There are some nice green areas and trains that link with Milan. You could even look at the lakes area as these too are somewhat more affordable. Otherwise, have a look at our classifieds section as people advertise there regularly. AB

Ä Please could you help with the following questions: 

I need a hotel close to the Fiera Milano Rho. Where is this exhibition hall located relative to the city. How far is it form the airport? Reply .....

For information about the location of Milan’s Trade Exhibition Centre www.fieramilano.it Fiera Milano also offers an integrated service for welcoming and assisting tourists and businessmen coming to the city, providing transportation, information and accommodation, www.fieramilano.it/accommdation (Miki)

Ä Hi I will be in Milan the beginning of November, 2007.  I need to stay near the Convention Center, as my husband will be at a convention.  Can you tell me a few choices of hotels (not expensive) (and in safe neighborhoods) that my husband can get to his convention and I can catch the train or bus to do site seeing and shopping. Thank you. Cindy 3/5/07 Reply .....

This is the link to Hello Milano’s list of hotels.  Click the Zara-Jenner-Fiera link on the right-hand side and you’ll see a list of hotels in the section of town you’re looking for.  Hotels close to a red-line metro stop will be the most convenient for you with the easiest transportation access.  http://www.hellomilano.it/Hotels/Hotels%20whole.htm

Ä Hi,  Just wanting some information for finding accomodation in or around Milan to live. Can you suggest names of accommodation agencies and web sites. I am English, married to a Southern Italian, with a 3 year old child. We are looking into moving to Milan this winter on a long term basis as my husband has been offered work in Central Milan.

Try http://milan.craigslist.org/

Ä  Have heard it is better to live out of the city and not sure where the nicer residential area/zones are, somewhere to take a child to a park now again. we have transpot and prepared to travel to work approx 30/45 mins.
Any ideas for housing accommodation areas to try for would be much appreciated. Thanking you, Sarah   Reply .....

Hi, we are staying in Arcore, which is 20kms from centre of Milan. This is a green place with a nice park in the center. Good agency we know is Mrs Rossi Meani. Her number is 348 6409665

Try www.rentxpress.com (Henry)

Try Eurohomes, (email: eurohome@eurohomemilano.com) they charge a fee of 360Euros upfront as an introductory service, and then offer u apartments, around your price range, until you like one, they have performed well 3 times for me, (albeit they are a bit slow in responding), it is a big saving in the long term. If you can agree to pay them after viewing the apartment, even better, but you will be hard pushed to get them to agree, speak to Angela or Brian.
www.rentxpress.com is the most professional, and they don’t charge a deposit, but their rent tends to be a bit higher. Speak to Pietro.
Ciao Hussain

Ä Could you please give me a list of campsites that are within 2 -3 hours drive from Bergamo airport in Milan.  I am looking for any campsite that has good facilities including pools, slides etc.  Also could you please let me know what the approximate distance would be from Bergamo airport to San Francesco Campsite. Reply .....

Here's the info about the campsite in Milan. It has all that you require, because it is right alongside a water park.
http://www.hellomilano.it/content/usefulinfo.htm#CAMP See also www.parcoaquatica.com for the water park. The San Francesco campsite at Desenzano must be about 70 km from Bergamo airport

Ä I am looking for apartments to rent for a weekend. It would be for 8 people. Can anyone recommend a good place to look?

Reply .....

You could try this company: www.rentxpress.com
 

Ä  Please could you tell me the nearest bb to malpensa airport. Reply .....

Visit http://www.bed-and-breakfast-in-italy.com/cerca.cfm?keys=malpensa for a list of bed and breakfast accomodations near the malpensa airport. But the closest one is 4 km (5 minutes) away from the airport. Its name is IL CODIROSSO tel. No. 0331 262796 328 7310190 - 13/4/07

Ä  Hi. I am planning to move to Milano. I wonder what the budget cost of living is: a small apartment/big room within a 20 min metro/train range of city center, food and transport. My second choice is Florence, so it would be great if anyone can compare the prices on basic expenses for these two cities. thank you very much. Toygan  Reply .....

The first apartment I lived in when I moved here was about 20 mins from city centre (on Viale Umbria) and I paid €420 per month, not including bills. That was for quite a small apartment in an okay area, sharing with one other person. I recently moved to a larger apartment in Porta Romana, only about a 5 minute metro ride from Duomo. It’s a bigger apartment and we are three people. The rent there is €480 per month, not including bills, I think this is about average.I hope that helps!

Ä  Hi there, planing to move to miln in sptemebr and realy dont know where i can contact somebody to find an apartment.  any ideas? thanks, ales. Reply .....

There are many apartment finders in Milan, too many to count (società immobilare). My recommendation is to first look in the newspaper when you arrive and hopefully an Italian speaking friend can help you call. The apartment finders charge a fee generally of 1-3 months of the cost of rent - if you can avoid this extra cost it is worth it! I had a very difficult time with the apartment people and had the best luck looking on my own. Good luck!  (A.S.)

Try Eurohomes, (email: eurohome@eurohomemilano.com) they charge a fee of 360Euros upfront as an introductory service, and then offer u apartments, around your price range, until you like one, they have performed well 3 times for me, (albeit they are a bit slow in responding), it is a big saving in the long term. If you can agree to pay them after viewing the apartment, even better, but you will be hard pushed to get them to agree, speak to Angela or Brian.
www.rentxpress.com is the most professional, and they don’t charge a deposit, but their rent tends to be a bit higher. Speak to Pietro.
Ciao Hussain

Ä Is there a good, safe campground in Milan? My husband and I will be coming April 7th and have our own tent. Is it best to stay in Milan or head over to Verona or Venice? Reply .....

The “Campeggio Città di Milano” is in Via Airaghi 61 (MM1 De Angeli then bus 72), tel. 02.48.200.134. Tents, campers, caravans. It is next to the Aquatica waterpark, and offers various sports facilities. Open all year except December and January. But I've never been there. Can someone tell us what it's like? (Henry)

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Children's activities, schools and services

Ä Hi i'm an Australian student that will be living in Milan from Jan 2012 for a whole year. If anyone is in need of an English tutor for their children i will be more than happy to help them. I can speak french and italian on an intermediate level and obviously english fluently, being my native tongue
Rossco Fenton
r.fenton@optusnet.com.au
 

Ä I am coming to Milan early next month with my 2 grandchildren; a girl aged 2 and a half and a boy aged 8 months.  Are there any swimming pools in Milan suitable for children of that age?  Do you know of any other events taking place that would interest a toddler?  I do know I saw donkey rides in one of the parks sometime ago but I suppose that would be a seasonal occurrence.  Reply .....
 

Ä I realize we're heading into August, but somewhere there are English Camps for kids around the Milan area, but where? Please advise, Elizabeth
 

Ä My family and I will be moving to Milan by next summer. 2008  I have three children. 

1. I am interested in the better schools in Milan.  Predominately English speaking.  I know about ASM.  Are there any Montessori Schools that teach in English?
2. We are looking for help in finding a nice, clean, smoke free house or large apartment to rent.  3-4 bedrooms/2 baths.
   I would imagine we would prefer living outside the city??/Not ever have been to Milan  so I am unsure.  We would prefer to live close to the school we will be attending as we may not have a car . no more than ten to fifteen minutes away.  First choice would be a Montessori school. If there are no English speaking Montessori Schools then we will send the kids to ASM.  In that case what towns are near the ASM school, with walking distance or a short ten minute drive or bus ride.
3. I need to know what towns are near the school we will be attending.  And then is there a countryside or nice upscale family development we can look at the rent a house or apartment.  I am lost and need to understand the surroundings.

ÄAny suggestions would be wonderful.  Thank you.

Hello from a Canadian to the other Canadian that in 2007 posted the add
looking for a Montessori School for their Child(ren).

No doubt by now the search yielded results.

When I first wanted to enroll her into a Montessori one in the South Milanese area, there were non plus when I'd discovered they only taught English when children got into their Middle School program. I looked around for something Bi-lingual because even if I spoke ONLY  Engl. sh to my child and my husband spoke only Italian with her, I was  more into a Montessori head set to deal with putting her into any school  around. so my hunt for her schooling began.
But Milan is expensive, so either you have a great two job situation,  which mine changed along the way as well during the next few years. But she started at Andersen School on Via Don Carlo San Martino, 8  and  our family budget could meet it, but also because with their Child  Studies programs, their high windows,  garden play area, abundant  teacher supervision, and then with lessons created by their wonderful  teachers. It's no wonder, the kids enjoy it which is fundamental so learning.
Get an appointment to go there to see it yourself to talk to everyone. There are kids from all around the world, but at the same many Italians too.
You could ask them to talk about Isabella Rossi's special situation how when she was to go into Grade One, I'd problems with my elderly parents thus enrolled her into a Canadian School. But too long wait to get into a Montessori School, so put her into the Rutherford School in Edmonton and we both never regretted it either.
But when we came back to Milan, it was around Christmas and both my husband I now realized now extremely difficult to ever perhaps get back her into a public school here since she really had another head-set developed.
But  we managed to re-roll her back at Andersen School, and even IF she vaguely remembered  her friends so happy she was back again. She forgot them, was in a state of flux because she missed how she was learning things getting pulled out from Grade One there, plus her friends in Canada that she'd formed solid friendships plus within those groups established.
Getting her inserted into Grade Two's proved that I really knew my child well. The situation with the kids, the next year's maths overwhelmed her, as well as us helping her to out grow food intolerances creating constant headaches and tears not able to keep up with it. Fortunately her teachers understood, and allowed her to grow.
But we're still at Andersen School thus I just suggest to others with a Montessori Head Set from Canada to look into their school.  It's very much so in ways like it too. But with Andersen Schools loads of windows, wonderful  teachers and interesting trips around Milan plus the kids 
that can tell you that they enjoy it so much when they get into all the things they do, they don't want to leave school after school either.
Good luck.

Reply .....

1. I’m afraid there are no English speaking Montessori school. However, Asm is a well-established institute, with experienced teachers and interesting programmes specially intended for the development of students’ skills, from Primary and Intermediary to High School. A wide extracurricular program, including art, drama, music, together with libraries and athletic facilities are some of the strong points making ASM an excellent school for your children’s education. You’ll find ASM site extremely helpful and exhaustive , www.asmilan.org. Also consider  The Sir James Henderson British School of Milan (Via Pisani Dosssi 16, 20134 Milan, tel: +39 02 26413332 / 26413310,
   fax:+39 02 26413515 / 26413302,  E- mail: sirjames@bbs.infosquare.it, website: www.sjhschool.com)
    
2. As for accommodation, Opera offers a variety of options. Searching the web, I’ve found some solutions that may respond to your needs, but making a choice just looking at a web-site may be difficult,  annunci-casa.eurekasa.it/affitto.
   
   I strongly recommend you to contact some real estate agencies in the area; they will surely give you detailed information about the options available in Opera which fit to your needs. Here are some contacts
    
3. ASM, however, seems to me as the best option, if you’re looking for a quiet and safe place for your family to move in. ASM’s suburban campus (6miles from downtown Milan) is far from the chaotic city (yet easily reachable), in a safe and green environment, which makes it the ideal location for your children. The school is situated in Noverasco frazione di Opera, a nice and small town in the green plane outside Milan (there is also a farm www.cascina-mirasole.it, and the ancient Abbey of Montesole). It is surrounded by San Giuliano Milanese (east); San Donato Milanese(north-east); Rozzano(west); Pieve Emanuele(south); Locate di Triulzi(south-east). They are all safe suburban communities south downtown Milan. For more information, visit the homepage www.comuni-italiani.it

·          Gabetti Agency

              Address: Via Ugo Bassi 4/B - Milano (MI)
Tel: 027755226
Fax: 027755236
Web site: www.gabetti.it

·          Studio Casa

             Address: Via Di Vittorio 26 - Opera (MI)
Tel: 0257606886
Web site: www.studiocasa.it

·          Fondo Casa

             Indirizzo: Via Mazzini 13 - Opera (MI)
Telefono: 0257619049
Fax: 0257606668
Sito web: www.fondocasa.it (Miki)

Ä I'm a parent looking for a children's English playgroup in the area of Bergamo or Brescia.  Reply .....  

 As far as I know, there’s no such a thing as a children’s English

playgroup in this area at the moment. However, I’ve found out what looks to me  
             as a useful                         
             ink, playgroup.meetup.com, with information about parents and playgroup 

 meetings in main Italian cities, including Brescia and Bergamo. As you can

 see, there are no groups available, but if you sign up, you can receive news,

contact other parents or even start up a new playgroup.  (Miky)

Ä  My wife and I are visiting Milan with our children (2 and 3 year old). Can anyone recommend activities such as swimming pools or adventure parks where we can take the children. Thanks, D  Reply .....

A few addresses, though I haven't been to any of them myself:

Parco Aquatica, water park, Via Gaetano Airaghi 61, Milan, www.parcoaquatica.com

Idroscalo/IdroParkFila, an artificial lake near Linate airport, can be reached by bus 73/ from Piazza San Babila (E 1.50). Sailing, canoeing, small fun fair, park, swimming etc.

Minitalia, Italy depicted by model monuments, buildings etc. There are also areas dedicated to Far West, fairground attractions, monorail train, big wheel etc. Via Vittorio Veneto, Capriate San Gervasio (near Bergamo), train Milan-Bergamo then coach. www.fantasyworld.it (H)

Ä  We are an English couple with two pre-school children and will be living in Milan. We would very much like to meet other English-speaking people with kids of a similar age – particularly so our three-year-old can have a friend to play with. Are there any English-speaking mother-and-toddler groups we could join? Or any other means of making contact with people in a similar situation?  Reply .....

Hi there, I have been in Milano with my husband and 3 and 5 year old since August and we also leave in Dec (to go back to Australia). We have pretty much been doing our own thing and the children and I are currently in the UK visiting friends and family but will be back on 8th Nov. I have discovered a great playcentre at the bottom of the Chiccolandia store near the Duomo and am often there on a Wed afternoon so may see you there? My kids love to see English speaking children! I believe there may be an English speaking playgroup threough the Benevuti club but haven't explored it myself.

Ä  I would like to find out if there are any facilities for kids, day care or kindergarden, where English is the dominant language in Milan.  My daughter is 3. Thanks. Reply .....

This website has a list of schools and playgroups in the Milan area to choose from. http://www.relocationenterprises.com/hinterland/hinterland_school.htm
 

Ä Hello, I am looking for art classes (drawing, etc) for children (5 and 8) both during the school year and during the summer. We live near MM1 Buonarrotti. My children spea English , but they are learning Italian very fast.
Also, would love to find summer camp for them near our home so we can meet italian famlies and they can improve their language skills. Is there such a thing? (summer camps american style where children go for a few hours every day during the summer, they work on soccer skills, art, karate, sports....). If not, what do italian children do during summer? Thanks!!! Gabi
Reply .....  

For a soccer summer camp near Milan:
http://www.internetsportstravel.com/Milan_camp.htm
 

Ä Hallo! I'm Italian and live in London, but I will soon move back to Milan. I'm interesting in putting my children in the international school. Did you get some interesting information? Could you share them with me? Do you know anything about the Monza branch of the school? thank you! Laura. Posted 2.3.2006 Reply .....

Visit http://www.ism-ac.it/ and http://italy.english-schools.org/international-school-milan.htm

Ä  Hello from Canada: Planning to the family to Milano next year (2007) and I'm looking for english speaking montessori schools - are there listings or emails with this information, or does anyone currently attend one. Also, which is considered the english speaking quarter of Milano?
thanks Melissa. Posted 01/06 Reply .....

Visit http://www.ism-ac.it/ and http://italy.english-schools.org/international-school-milan.htm

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Courses

Ä I have recently moved to Milan and was wondering if there is a dance studio teaching adult ballet classes anywhere here?  I live near the center at the concilizione metro stop.

26/11/07Reply .....
 

Ä Does anyone know if there are glassblowing classes (English or Italian) available in Milano?  I'd like to start learning this fall. 29/7/07 Reply .....

Ä Does anyone know if there are glassblowing classes (English or Italian) available in  Milano?  I'd like to start learning this fall. 16/7/07 Reply .....

            Hobbyceram (International School of Decorative Arts) organizes a 6-hour seminar on glass processing techniques, including glass-fusing decoration. For more information, check out the page www.emagister.it/corso_tecniche_di_lavorazione_del_vetro . Unfortunately, information about the schedule are not available, but you may contact Hobbyceram (Via P.L. DA PALESTRINA, 13 MILANO)   (Miky)

Ä Hello, i'm planning to come to Milan in near future to learn italian. However, i'm looking for a language course arranged by the help of goverment - ie cheaper -  or something like night-courses which are usually cheap. Do you have any info about it? Can you help me out? Thank u from now on.   Reply .....

Milan Municipality organises courses. I don't they're on line and there is no e-mail address published. Here is the available information (from the Comune di Milano website, www.comune.milano.it): Info Point Educazione e Infanzia, Servizio Comunicazione ed Eventi, Via Porpora, 10, 20131 Milan. Phone: +39/0288456302 - Fax: +39-0288462732. Open from Monday to Friday: 9.00–12.30, 14.15–15.30.

Ä Hi i'm coming to Milan with a friend next week for a few days and would like to do a wine tasting course while we are there. Is there anywhere quite central in Milan that does a good one day or evening course? As we dont want to travel outside of Milan? Thanx    Reply .....

The first Wednesday of every month WineTip does a evening wine tasting event

Ä Can anyone tell me about where I can go to drawing/painting classes? Thanks. Reply .....  

I picked up a couple of leaflets:

- Associazione Culturale Laboratorio Artistico, Via Vannucci 13, 02.5830.6553, Milan, laboratorio@illaboratorioartistico.it www.illaboratorioartistico.it

- Comuna Baires, Via Parenzo 7, tel. 02.8138280, 338.4576.147, combair@tiscalinet.it www.comunabaires.it

Ä  Ciao! I'm looking for cooking schools in Milano. When I do a search from here (America) I find cooking school tours. It's not what I'm looking for. Is there a school for cooking in Milano that is for serious students that are wanting to come and that don't need room and board? My boyfriend lives in Milano. He has done a few searches for me on that side but they seem to want you to stay at their dorms or the program is too intense (monday-saturday) Any comments or suggestions would be welcomed. Thank you, Michelle. Reply .....  

Consider the following schools: Altopalato - Centro di Cultura Enogastronomio (Via Ausonio 13 20123 Milano) or La Scuola de La Cucina Italiana at Piazza Aspromonte, 15 (ipca@quadratum.it).

Ä  Does anyone know of a good cooking class in the Milan area? We'll be living in Milan for a few short years, and I'd love to learn to cook the local food while here!!  Reply .....

Try "Kitchen", Via de Amicis 45, Milano, info/bookings: info@kitchenweb.it or phone 02.58102849.

Or Italian and... cooking, tel. 348.041.3077, 349.4044.720, info@magoblu.it

Ä  Where can I find dance lessons in english in Milano? perche me no speaky italiano too bouno!!  Reply .....  

This website has a list of a ton of dance schools that offer classes in English!
http://milan.angloinfo.com/af/11/milan-education-and-training.html

Ä  Hello. Anyone know of any dance classes in milan??????? Reply .....

Sorry I can't answer this one - just reinforce it! 

Check out the Urban Centre. They organise beginners classes for all sorts of styles of dance. Address: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 11/12, open Mon to Fri 9.00am to 6.00pm - tel 02884.56370/56555

 

Ä  Hi Hello Milano, I am looking for wine and/or cooking classes in Italian or English. I am interested in things after work or on weekends and preferably in Milan. Thank you, Sam. Posted 16.2.06. Reply .....  

A few ideas. Cooking: www.artedelconvivio.it   www.con-gusto.it   www.lanostracucina.it    Wine: www.aismilano.it  www.istcultvino.it

TOP

Documents/public offices/red tape

Ä  I'm working with a team of American and South african engineers. A new member of the team from South Africa has just arrived to Italy, and he would like to take some driving lessons, to practice the italian side. need the name of a school, in Milan (wherever it is) where the instructor can speak english. Our office is located in San Donato Milanese. 27/4/07 Reply .....
 

Here are two schools in Milan.
- Autoscuola di Legnano. Tel 03 315 49883
-Autoscuola di Motta Viscondi.  Tel 02 900 01862

This website has a ton of information about driving in Italy, including driving schools:  http://milan.angloinfo.com/af/278/milan-driving-schools-instructors-and-lessons.html    

Ä  Hi All, I'm a UK (EU) citizen moving to Milan soon to study. My questions are:
1) What formalities must I go through to get a residency permit, identity
card or anything else (national insurance/work number)?  and where do I go for these?
2) What is the 'codice fiscale' and do I need one of these too?
Thanks in advance.  Reply .....  

1a. Residence permit – You have to go to the Questura di Milano (Which is near to your residence)
1b. Identity card – You have to go to commune which is near to your residence

2. A codice Fiscale works a bit like the American Social Security Number, once you come to Italy, In order to get your number and card you need to take a valid document and residence permit to Uffici distrettuali delle Imposte Dirette.

Ä We just moved to Milano, and we have to change our car insurance.
Do you have any suggestions for an insurance company where we could communicate in english or french as our Italian is not very good yet. Thank you.  Reply .....

Hi this is one of a good insurance company, here the is the website http://www.directline.it , they speak in English too

Ä I’m thinking of taking a driving school and get a driver’s license in Milano. What’s the cost and time needed? Are there weekend courses? I’m a beginner. Thanks. Reply .....  

I just received my drivers licence in April.  I had to re-do the whole thing because I couldn't convert mine, although I have been driving for 15 years.  It does cost quite a bit.  I ended up paying about €600 in total.  You have to sit through a course (mine was twice a week) and then do the theory test.  If you're a foreigner, you can sign something declaring that you can't read Italian and take an oral test.  However, I did the full "quiz" and got a perfect score... I think it was easier being able to read and think through.  Then I still had to take a few practical lessons (€25 each) before the final exam.  (K)

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Dining out

ÄAre there any food co-ops or health food stores in or around the Milan area?  I am a vegan moving to milan from Houston, Texas  USA.  Also, any restaurants that serve vegetarian or vegan cuisine?Reply .....  29/10/07

 Unfotrunately, Italy is not familiar with the practice of food cooperatives.
 Indeed, it may be quite hard to find groceries of this kind, usually owned by their own members and storing locally grown products. Milan is no exception. However, growing demand for healthy foods has brought about similar services which primarly focus on OGM free, organic products. This is the case of il Cornale, a cooperative run by 60 farmers. They directly deliver their products to your door. You just have to subscribe and you'll recieve a weekly provision of their products, such as fruits, vegetables and cheese. Try to visit www.medius.it/cornale. It is quite expensive, however, around 80€ a week! Health food store may provide cheaper products, with the same commitment to health food. Here's a link to the complete list of health food stores in Milan http://www.corriere.it/negozibio.shtm

There's a wide range of restaurant, from italian to indian ones, serving vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Check out  www.milanodabere.it/ristoranti/vegetarian  (Miky)

Ä How can we find out where ethnic restaurants such as Indian or Malaysian can be found in Milan.  We live in Monza Cheers Karen. Reply .....

Indian: Tandur, Via Maddalena 3-5, close to Piazza Missori, tel 02.805.6192, closed on Mon. English and Hindi spoken. Sarla Ristorante, Via Stampa 4. There are other Indian restaurants in the Porta Venezia district, such as Sukrity, via Panfilo Castaldi 22. I don't know any Malysian restaurants. (Henry)

My GPS software has some contacts for the question of Indian and Malasian restuarants. Not sure if they are all Malsian cuisine but they are listed as Asian.
Singapore, Via Vincenzo Foppa 47, 20144 Milano, MI, 0248952129
Poporoya, Via Bartolomeo Eustachi 17, 20129 Milano, MI, 0229406797
Gaya, Via Domenico Scarlatti 3, 20124 Milano, MI, 0229531106
Poporo, Via Nicola Piccinni 25, 20131 Milano, MI, 0229404997
Madras Café, Strada Statale Padana Superiore 47, 20063 Cernusco Sul Naviglio, MI, 0292141884
Taj Mahal, Via Luigi Porro Lambertenghi 23, 20159 Milano, MI, 0269000245
Kashmir, Via Rosolino Pilo 7, 20129 Milano, MI, 0229537316
Tandur, Via Maddalena 3, 20122 Milano, MI, 028056192
Maharajà, Viale Gorizia 8, 20144 Milano, MI, 0289416568
Best Regards
Brian Bogaard

This ethnic restaurant guide is what you need:
http://www.kumale.net/mondo.html
otherwise ask Jeeves :-) Buon appetito!

PappaMondo is a small book that comes out annually and is a guide to all types of ethnic restaurants in Milan. It can be found in most bookstores. We’ve used ours for years!

Lynn

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Events/exhibitions/nightlife/entertainment in Milan

 Ä Looking for musicians to start a band or perform acoustic gigs around the city. I am a singer/songwriter from Dublin/Ireland. e-mail:dessieanderson@yahoo.ie. Reply .....

Ä Does anybody know of any open-mic sessions in Milano for singer/songwriters? or any venues that allow upcoming musicians to play at? email:dessieanderson@yahoo.ie. Reply .....
 

Ä I'm attending a Sunday evening performance at La Scala. If I wore black tie would I be considered overdressed? Would there be other members of the audience dressed in the same way or will everyone just be in a suit and tie? Thanks in advance for any help. JS  Reply .....

I reckon some people will be in black tie, particularly if it's a first night.

Ä Hi, my partner and I and respective kids, 14 (girl) and 12 (boy) are coming to Milan for the football (Saturday night), and my partner's 50th birthday.  Where can we girls shop for clothes at sensible prices? And next question, is there a footie pub somewhere in Milan that is decked out with all the regalia where we can celebrate a 50th birthday on a Sunday, with some of our Tartan Army friends? And does everything close on the Sunday and Monday please? Thanks!   Reply .....  

There are a lot of places that you can shop in Milan without breaking the bank. For instance, larger department stores such as Upim and Coin offer some of the same popular fashions at lower prices than small boutiques. You can find these stores throughout Milan, near the Duomo and on Corso Buenos Aires. Many stores are closed on Sundays, but ones near the main tourist areas, such as the Duomo, are open early in the day. Monday most stores are open in the afternoon. As for a footie pub, one that I particularly like is called Murphy's Law. It's a short walk from the Sant Ambrogio metro stop, on the green line. (Luisa)

Can’t help you with the shopping……. Sorry. But you should try The English Football pub in Via Velpotrosa (sp) down Via Torino from the Duomo, nice pub, friendly, serves food and has loads of football memorabilia. Malc

Ä Hello! My husband and I will be visiting Milano. Could anybody please tell us where to go and buy militaria from WWII? Thanxalot Grethe Ravn. Denmark. Reply .....

There are the occasional "Militalia" fairs at Parco Esposizioni Novegro (near Linate airport, see www.parcoesposizioninovegro.it ). Here is an antiquarian: Bagatti, Piazza Risorgimento 3, tel. 02.7600.6353.

Ä Ciao tutti, I am looking for english speaking films in Milano. Does anybody have a clue what and where cinemas display new/old movies without Italian dubbing ? Thanks, Ziv. Reply .....

At the moment, the cinemas screening English-speaking films are the Anteo, Via Milazzo 9 (Metro 2 Moscova) on Mondays, the Arcobaleno, Viale Tunisia 11 (Metro 1 Porta Venezia) on Tuesdays, and the Mexico, Via Savona 57 (Metro 2 Porta Genova F.S.) on Thursdays. The Cineteca, Viale Vittorio 2 (Metro 1 Porta Venezia) includes a few old original language films in its programme. All the films at these cinemas are included in What's On. Outside Milan, the Cinema Astra, Via Manzoni 33 in Monza runs English-language films every Monday at 21.30. (Henry)

Ä Please can you help me, I am trying to find out horse racing fixtures at the San Siro racecourse. Many thanks and kind regards. Posted 13.9.05  Reply .....

Events at the Ippodromo di San Siro are published here: http://www.ippodromimilano.it/

Ä Travelling to milan on 8th of dec and we know that this is an expensive city, but can anyone recommend any cheaper restaurants and especially bars please!  Andy. Reply .....

One of the best ways to hit the bars and not empty your wallet is to go    during aperitivo (6-9 pm). Drinks are around 5 euro and includes a buffet. There are a lot of bars in the Naviglio Grande area (Metro Line 2-green- to Porta Genova) which don't have cover charges- steer clear of large clubs if  you're looking to save money, they usually charge about 15-20 Euros just to   get in. Cheaper restaurants can be found outside the city centre (Pta. Venezia, Lima) where you can find pizzas for 5 Euros. Hope this helps, have a wonderful time! LF

Ciao, there are a lot of restaurants, cheap and expensive.....you have to know otherwise could be dangerous for your wallet!

Milano it's full of bars for Aperitives and after-dinner drinking. They are all differents, should be good try differents to taste the atmosphere of the city.

I can recommed to you this website:

 

http://www.milanobynite.altervista.org/

 

for a guide of Eatings and Fun in Milano....take a look, it's a good compromise!

cheers .

Ä I shall be in Milan between 26 Feb and 5 March and am looking for a good salsa club (preferably with live music) and a good Chinese restaurant. Any suggestions? Also in need of a (female) dance partner - any volunteers?  I am at intermediate level. Christopher Reply .....

Salsa club: The following club, in the south-east outskirts, will be opening on 4 Feb 2006: Club El Paraiso del Ritmo, open 21.00-05.59. Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia etc, with live band. Room for 1,500 people. Free parking. Bar and restaurant. El Paraiso del Ritmo, Via Toffetti 73 • MM3 Rogoredo. Info 02.5521.9942, 334.1965.823. Another is Discoteca La Rumba, Via Airaghi 61 (Parco Aquatica, western outskirts), tel. 02.36505265. Chinese restaurant: Zhoung Thai, Via Cicco Simonetta 17 (MM2 S. Agostino), tel. 02.8940.2080. Extra discount with a copy of Hello Milano. (H)

Ä Hi, Is it true that you can't smoke in any bar in Milan? Reply .....

Some bars have smoking rooms that have to be separate from non-smoking areas and fitted with fume extraction equipment. If you want to find a place where you can smoke, look for a sign saying something like "Area fumatori".

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Fashion

Ä I´m a brazilian and I have a fashion project. It´s a single concept and is the only in the world. So, I`ll travel to Milan to make business, and I´m looking for distributors office in Milan to sell my product. Can you help me? Reply .....  

Try to contact Fixdesign (Muggiò, Milanio; tel.0392783030; email contact: stile1@fixdesign.it ).The company is looking for a stylist to create a brand new collection and may be interested in your project.      (Miky)

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Groups/social/worship

Ä Our 15 year-old nephew is staying with us in Milan from New York, and is getting a little bored hanging out with us adults!  If you know of any young teenagers with similar age, preferably English speaking, it would be great for them to meet in the evenings for fun activities such as gelato-eating, or going to bookstores, listening to music, etc.  Please contact me, Amy Chan on chanyma@hotmail.com.

Ä Hi-  I am a reiki healer, new to Milan, and was wondering if anyone knows of any healing/reiki/ meditation groups in the city suitable for someone who (as yet), speaks no IT? many thanks,  Helen  Reply .....  

Here is a contact e-mail of group of people working together for inner growth and meditation.:: a.longoni@agora.stm.it
 

Ä Hello, I’d like to know how I can get in touch with English people in order to share interests and for good conversation. I love cinema, concerts, theatre, trekking, biking. I’m 43 , openminded and I love to get in touch with other cultures. Luca  Reply .....

Hi Luca, You can try www.italyforum.org to get in touch with english speaking people from all over Europe. I'm from Holland and I want practice my Italian so maybe we can make a 'deal'??? Or leave your e-mailadress in the classified adds of this noticeboard.ciao Karin

Ä My six-year-old daughter and I have lived in Bergamo for several years and would like to make some new friends, male or female, children or adults!  We both speak Italian, English and Spanish.  I am English, brought up in Spain. My daughter is half-Italian, brought up here.  We live in the centre of Bergamo.  Reply .....

There is the Swiss School in Ponte San Pietro which is the only International School in the area. Lots of German families send their children to the Swiss School but also other Nationalities are frequenting the school. Perhaps getting in contact with the school you might be able to get in contact with international people there.

Regards Lilo

Hi! There is a small "international" group forming in Bergamo.  Most of us have children between the ages of 3 and 10 who attend the Montessori school.

Ä Is it possible to play bridge in Milan without being member of a club and without having a partner around? I'm Dutch and I will be in Milan for half a year. I understand Italian reasonably well, but I'm not very good at speaking  the language. I'm not an expert player, I'm not a beginner. Somewhere half the line. Any suggestions?  Reply .....  

Found on the web (Rino):

- Soc. Canottieri Milano, Alzaia Naviglio Grande 160, canottieri@tiscalinet.it

- Assoc. Canottieri Olona, Alzaia Naviglio Grande 146, segreteria@olonabridge.it

- Sporting Club Milano 2, Via Fratelli Cervi, Segrate, sportingclubm2@mclink.it

- Tennis Club Ambrosiano, Via Feltre 33, bebviaggi@bebviaggi.191.it

- Club Villa Alessandra, Via M. Pagano 71, d.pasquini@assofisco.it

- Assoc. It. Rotariani Bridge, Via Ippodromo 76, alibri@libero.it

- Associazione Bridge Tennis Club, Via Generale Arimondi 15, tel. 02 33002249

- Bridge Institute 2000, Piazza Belgioioso 2, info@francodistefano.it

- Ass. Sp. Due di Picche, Via Goldoni 19, paola.bezzola@chinobrugnatelli.it

- ASD Le Club Sansiro, Via Pinerolo 76, bridgeclubsansiro@hotmail.com

- Circolo Alessandro Volta, Via G. Giusti 16, tel. 02.3311315

- Assoc. Milano Bridge, Via De Amicis 17, bridgeebs@tin.it

- Harbour Club Milano, Via Cascina Bellaria 19, harbourclub@harbourclub.it

- Bridge Club Milano, Via Piacenza 12, bridgeclubmilano@tin.it

- Circolo Bridge Milano, Via Settala, 20

- Assoc. Bridge Voltel Milano, Via Garofalo 5

- Assoc. Bridge Milano, Via Manzoni 41

Ä My name is Selda. I am living in Amsterdam (Holland). Soon I will visit Milan. I want to meet people from Milan during my holiday and talk with them (make new freinds). Can you help me with information? Maybe there is a internet site with suggestion? I want to chat in english, because my Italian is not so... Thank you very much. Selda. Reply .....

Hi Selda, There is a community that is setting up events now and then (not that much in the summer period in August). They send you regular updates and I actually made 2 good friends out of this community. One moved a few months ago, the second is still in Milan and we see each other a lot. The site is: www.eurocircle.com  Maybe I will see you there soon!!! =)

Ä Hi there, does anybody know if there is a meetingplace where dutch preole meete up in Milano. I would like to see the football games next week , it would be nice if there were more dutch peole and watch together.Reply .....  

Why not try the Lion's Bar in Pantigliate, even if it is just out of Milan on the Paulese? There are always dutch people there and especially with the
footbal games it is packed with them, and the beer is very cheap. Enjoyed myself a lot and got a lot of interesting contacts out of it. (C.E)

Try the lion’s pub at Pantigliate , on the Paulesse., tangenziale est , uscita paullo 3 direction Crema-Cremona. There are always Dutch people..  I watched the football game last week over there on the big scream ! (E.C.)

Ä I am 22 f living Milan since last year. i have been trying to find the way to meet with the people especially designers, how can l find a good group or society to be a member and meet with people? or do u know any other way to meet with new people except bars, discos..do u think i should work somewhere to meet with people? Reply .....  

If you are a woman, you can attend Professional Womens Association (PWA) the website is http://www.pwa-milan.org/ .  I know there are many women who work in the fashion industry (both clothing and interior design) and I am sure they would be a good resource.  If you are a man, you could try American Business Luncheons.  Good luck!  (A.S.)

Ä Hi, can somebody tell me, is there a regular meeting for Catholic Charismatic Renewal especially for young people in Milan ? Thanks, Erica Reply .....

              In Milan, lots of Catholic Charismatic Renewal groups have regular prayer meetings. Check out www.rns-lombardia.it ; this is a useful link, showing a detailed map of all the groups in the Milano area.

              Segreteria Regionale RnS - Lombardia
c/o Nisoli Angela
via L. Da Vinci, 16
20082 Binasco (MI)
tel. 02-9054813

e-mail: segreteria@rns-lombardia.it
           rns.lombardia@libero.it

Sito regionale: www.rns-lombardia.it         (Miky)

Ä Hey, am also a British Designer - 23 years old. Have just came out here and also looking to meet some new people. Finding it quite hard. B.B. Posted 10.08.06 Reply .....  

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Lakes area (Maggiore, Como, Lecco), Bergamo

Ä I will be working in Milan in July. My wife will fly into Malpensa one weekend & we want to visit Stresa/ Lake Maggiore for a long weekend. Can I go from Malpensa by bus and from where and what frequency do they run or, what is the cost of a taxi from the airport to Stresa? Thanks you.    Reply .....  

From the Malpensa airport it is possible to reach Stresa by bus Alibus. Alibus stop in Malpensa Airport is located at Terminal 1, bus stop number 22 (Verbania-Malpensa). The bus ALIBUS will depart from Milan Malpensa every
day. It is possible to buy ticket on board. However, seats must be reserved by 12 a.m. of the day before the departure, by contacting 0039 0323 552172 or sending a fax to 0039 0323 552165.
NOTE: For Sunday and Monday transfers, it is necessary to make the reservation by 12.00 am. of the Saturday before.
Taxi cost, unsure.

Ä Hi. Can you anyone tell me how much it may cost to get a taxi from Bergamo airport to Cernobbio in Como. Many thanks    Reply .....

              Taxi cabs linking Bergamo airport with the main towns in the north of Italy have been recently criticized for alleged inflated fares, with price differences according to cab companies. I can’t tell you exactly how much a taxi ride from Bergamo to Cernobbio will cost, though it may not be so cheap. Consider, however, that Cernobbio is about 65km from Bergamo (1 hour); at the arrivals at Bergamo airport, you’ll find the taxi zone (Radiotaxi +39 035 4519090).You may also hire a car with driver, choosing among a number of companies, with tariffs between 110/190 euro.     (Miky)

Ä I want to go on a family holiday to Lake Como. Which area/town is the most child friendly area (any beaches, activities) ? How far is it from Bergamo airport? Is there regular bus services to and from the airport? and finally can anyone recommend a reasonable apartment to rent in that area for a week? Thanks.   Reply .....

One family attraction is the Jungle Raider Park, with aerial runways and walkways suspended in the woods. It is at Piano Rancio, Civenna (Como). For children and adults. See www.jungleraiderpark.com, info 031.963651.

Ä Orio al Serio to Stresa. Can anyone tell me the distance involved? Does the autostrada have an exit for Stresa or do I need to leave the autostrada before I get to the Lake?  Reply .....

It looks to me about 120 km. Take the A4 autostrada for Milan, follow signs towards A8 Laghi/Como/Varese, then towards Varese when the A9 to Como splits off from the A8 after Lainate. After Gallarate, follow signs (you're still on the autostrada) to Gravellona Toce/Genova/Sesto Calende, then, after Sesto Calende, to Gravellona on the A26. Exit at Carpugnino for Stresa (which is about 5 km from the exit. (Henry)

Dear Sir/ Madam,

The motorway is the A26 - (direction: Gravellona Toce/Alessandia, then just follow the signs to Garvellona Toce - Never towards Milan).

The best exit is Baveno and then you drive back to Stresa, it's quite difficult to get here driving also with the traiif on the tangenziale motorway of Milan...

It's quite difficult to get to Stresa by public trasport from Orio al Serio you have three options:

1 - Bus to MIlan Central and train to Stresa, trains every 2/3 hours in the day time last one around 9ish pm (the station is not right in the center). Around 25 Euro p.p. one way

2- Taxi to Milan Central and train to Stresa, trains every 2/3 hours in the day time last one around 9ish pm (the station is not right in the center). train around 20,00 euro Taxi, I presume around 100 euros.

3. taxi all the way -

Ä Could you please give me a list of campsites that are within 2 -3 hours drive from Bergamo airport in Milan.  I am looking for any campsite that has good facilities including pools, slides etc.  Also could you please let me know what the approximate distance would be from Bergamo airport to San Francesco Campsite. Reply .....

Here's the info about the campsite in Milan. It has all that you require, because it is right alongside a water park.
http://www.hellomilano.it/content/usefulinfo.htm#CAMP See also www.parcoaquatica.com for the water park. The San Francesco campsite at Desenzano must be about 70 km from Bergamo airport.

Ä I'd like to know about distances and transport from Orio al Serio (Bergamo) airport to Lake Como. Reply .....

The distance from Bergamo Airport to the City of Como is about 50 km. Lecco, a town on the Lecco branch of Lake Como, is 30 km from the airport. Bus transport runs from Orio al Serio to Bergamo station (see www.sacbo.it). You can get to Como from Bergamo by train, it takes about 1.5 hours, with one change at Monza or Seregno or other stations. Trains run from Bergamo to Lecco direct, about 35 minutes. See www.trenitalia.it

Ä What is the distance from Bergamo airport to Bergamo train station and where would I find a time table. grazie molto. Reply .....  

There is a bus shuttle that runs between the Bergamo airport and the train station. You can find more information on http://www.atb.bergamo.it/homepage.asp?IDCategoria=1.

Ä Hi I will be staying in Bergamo, arriving in the airport at 23:50, booking into a hostel. Then me and my friend will be wanting a few drinks, will there be nightclubs/bars open at that time of nite? Reply .....  

 Bergamo is known as a city where tourists can appreciate artistic sightseeing,

especially in the upper part of the city (the so-called Bergamo Alta). Alongside

this ancient atmosphere, young people can also enjoy the nightlife in many

bars and pubs, open until 2p.m.  Papageno Club (via Colleoni, 1/b Bergamo

alta; a pub where you can taste beers from all over the world), Divina Fashion

Bar (www.bardivina.it, also French and English spoken, live music) and Tucan’s

(Bergamo Alta; an Irish pub famous for its Guinness and high quality whisky)

are considered to be among the coolest places in the city.  (Miky)

Ä We plan to visit Milan on Sunday 22 August. We will be staying in Bellagio. Is it easier to take a ferry to Como, then a train to the centre of Milan, rather than to drive?  Will the shops be open on a Sunday? Is it possible to pre book tickets for The Last Supper over the internet?
Thanks. June Katz. Reply .....

It's certainly easier to take a ferry - or bus - to Como, and then the Ferrovie Nord train that brings you to Stazione Nord, Piazzale Cadorna, Milan, in about one hour. Total travelling time two hours approx. Shops will nearly all be closed, particularly as August is holiday month. It is not possible to book tickets for the Last Supper over the Internet. Phone only, 02.8942.1146.

Ä Hi There,I will be in Milan on April 25th.  How safe is it for a woman traveling on her own? Can you take in the night life?  Are there any organized tours to lake Como for hicking, sightseeing etc?  Reply .....

I would say that safety by day sightseeing is OK, but I'd advise against wandering around the nightlife districts late at night. Re Como, A Friend in Milan info@friendinmilan.co.uk runs tours to Como, but it's easy to do Como on your own, cheap train from Cadorna rail station (Ferrovie Nord) which brings you to the lakeside, where there are ferries to all over, and a nice bus to Bellagio, also very cheap. (Henry)

Ä Hello, we have booked a hotel in milan near il duomo, but are arriving to bergamo airport,what is the easiest route to the  hotel , thanks, lynne.

Reply .....  

Autostradale coaches to Central Station in Milan, then Metro (line 3 to Duomo) or taxi. Zani (www.zaniviaggi.it) coaches to Milan Lambrate station, then Metro (line 2) to Loreto, change to line 1, then to Duomo. E 6. By taxi: around E 75. For more info on Orio al Serio, see website www.sacbo.it

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Last Supper

Ä Is it possible to make a booking to see the Last Supper on the Internet.  I cannot find a link and I travel tomorrow!  Help!   Reply .....  

For the Last Supper, the best bet is to take the coach tour which leaves from Via Marconi (near Duomo) at 9.30 every day except Monday, which includes the Last Supper. Or go to the Last Supper before the first tour of the day at 8.15, it's the time for which cancellations are most likely.

Ä Hello, My husband and I are visiting Milano. I've been loooking for tickets (2) for the Last Supper and also for a performance at the Teatro all Scala but everything is sold out. Can somebody tell me where else to look for tickets? Molto grazie. Christina   Reply .....

For the Last Supper, the best bet is to take the coach tour which leaves from Via Marconi (near Duomo) at 9.30 every day except Monday, which includes the Last Supper. Or go to the Last Supper before the first tour of the day at 8.15, it's the time for which cancellations are most likely. H.

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Left luggage

Ä We would like to know if there is a deposito bagagli at the central train station in Milan.  We will be coming from Venice and only have a few hours to see a few sights in Milan.  Thanks for any help on this matter.  Reply .....

 Yes. See www.hellomilano.it/content/usefulinfo.htm#LEFTLUG

Ä I am visiting Italy for 10 days on my way from India to USA. My starting point and ending point in Italy is Milan. I would be travelling to 3-4 cities in Italy. I would like to know if I can leave my luggage on Milan airport. If yes, how much is the charge? Reply .....

There are left luggage offices (Deposito bagagli) both at Malpensa and Linate, at the Arrivals (ground floor). Phone: Linate 02.716659, Malpensa 02.5858.02198. For forther infomation, contact the SEA Call Centre, (+39) 02 74852200. (Henry)

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Miscellaneous

Ä Does anyone know the email address if Zara Italia Srl, Corso Buenos Aires 54, Milano? Reply ..... 3/7/08

Ä I am looking for a large black cotton tissue to buy in Milan and i wanted to know where I can buy the cheapest one. Thank you for letting me know. Reply .....

Tessuti & Scampoli (14, VIA LARIO 20159 Milano (MI) tel.: 02 6886493)

and

Il Bottegone & C. (56, VIA FARINI CARLO 20159 Milano (MI)

56, VIA FARINI CARLO 20159 Milano (MI)

tel.: 02 69008184)

are retail /wholesale outlets, stocking textiles and selling at reasonable prices.

                                                                        (Miky)

Ä Hi. I am an Australian designer involved in the City of Milan Award for Young Foreign designers. I am looking for a basic list of the most prominent languages spoken by visitors/toursits to Milan. Any assistance you could offer would be greatly appreciated. Regards,
Damien   Reply .....

hello Damien; i am not sure about the date of your posting...aniway here are some info. you will find a few english speaking people, but most of us speak only italian. if you run in any sort of trouble feel free to contact me for ...live assistance... e -mail me (we don't publish personal info on the noticeboard - ed) at to request my phone number if you wish. Regards, Elena

Ä Would someone be kind enough to clarify the correct pronunciation of "LINATE", as in the airport. Thanks, L.H.   Florida Reply .....

I don't know the international notation, but it's something like Lynn - art - tay, with the accent on the second syllable art, and a very short tay. If you say line - art - tay to the taxi-driver he will take you to a place called LAINATE on the other side of Milan. It has happened... (Rino)

Thanks Rino.    I pronounced it exactly the same as you.   As it happens, I didn't have to repeat the name out loud as anticipated, so no worries !!!

Be careful, the previous pronunciation was fine for a British English speaking person that does not pronounce a heavy R.  For an American from Florida the best phonetic example would be Lean Ah-Teh (with the accent on the second Syll. (Mark)

Ä Can anyone tell me what Garibaldi has to do with Garibaldi biscuits? Thanks.

Reply .....  

As far as I can ascertain, Garibaldi biscuits are named thus, "simply because he liked them". He ate them after most meals and would send them as gifts. From that simple act, the name spread. (T)

I've heard 2 explanations:
1) they were named after him in honour of his visit to the UK in 1861
2) they were a good item of military rations, storing raisins and flour in a very compact form, and used by Garibaldi's army (cf: sandwich).
I wonder which (if any) is true?? (RR)

Ä Hi, I am trying to put together a trip to Milan next year for my husband and I need some help with how to do it!!?? Ryanair fly from the UK to Bergamo, how far is that from MOnza, would it make sense to stay there instead of Milan as that could be very expensive I think to stay in Milan at that time? I would appreciate any guidance you can give me? Emma Buckle. Reply .....

Monza is also on the expensive side. Unless you truly want to stay in Monza, consider a B&B in Bergamo. All three cities are lovely. Milan is 75 km from Bergamo and only 15 km from Monza.

 Ä I am interested in becoming au-pair in Italy. Does anybody know agencies or association that can help me in finding a family there? Reply .....

A quick google search for au-pair placement agencies came up with the following websites which might be useful:

http://www.aupair-world.net

http://www.aupair.com/

http://www.nannyjob.co.uk/index.htm

Also, be sure to check our Classifieds section under "Nannies and babysitters wanted" for families in Italy looking for an au-pair. Good luck! LF

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New Year's Eve

Ä I wondered if you could tell me the best place to be and were to avoid on
New Years Eve. We are arriving on the 30th dec and departing on the 1st January.
We are staying in the marriott milano on Washington. Also is it advisable to book in advance for a restaraunt on boht those days, if so could you recommend whats good and open. At present everywhere we ring are closed for a week over this period.

Reply .....   

Ä Hello everybody, My girlfriend & I are coming to Milan for new year's eve (and will stay from 28th dec till 2nd Jan). Please tell me what will be happening on the streets that evening ? We are 25 years old so what do you suggest to do on new year's eve? Also, are there some cheap student hostels? Thanx and best regards! Reply .....

Piazza Duomo is the classic New Year venue for young people. Many discos run New Year's Eve parties. Re accommodation, there is the youth hostel.

Ostello per la Gioventù “Piero Rotta” , Via Martino Bassi, 2 - MM1 QT8. (Entrance Viale Angelo Salmoiraghi, 1.) Tel.0239267095, www.ostellionline.org , ostellomilano@aiglombardia.it. Open 24 hours a day. Euro 18.50/night including breakfast. Membership card needed, available in hostel for Euro 18.-. Max 14 nights stay (3 nights when full). Happy New Year!! Henry

Ä I am living in Milan at the moment and have a party of 10 coming to visit for a long weekend over New Year's Eve 2005/6. Can anyone suggest a suitable plan for the evening of New Year's Eve? I had thought of booking a restaurant (any suggestions?) for a pre-midnight dinner and wouldbe interested in getting tickets for a club/party for after mid-night. Thanks Sarah Reply .....

                Check out the website: http://www.milanodabere.it

Ä I am living in Milan at the moment and have a party of 10 coming to visit for a long weekend over New Year's Eve 2005/6. Can anyone suggest a suitable plan for the evening of New Year's Eve? I had thought of booking a restaurant (any suggestions?) for a pre-midnight dinner and would be interested in getting tickets for a club/party for after mid-night. Thanks Sarah. Posted 16.11.05 Reply .....  

             check out the website: http://www.milanodabere.it

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Safety, security

Ä Hi There,I will be in Milan on April 25th.  How safe is it for a woman traveling on her own? Can you take in the night life?  Are there any organized tours to lake Como for hicking, sightseeing etc?  Reply .....

I would say that safety by day sightseeing is OK, but I'd advise against wandering around the nightlife districts late at night. Re Como, A Friend in Milan info@friendinmilan.co.uk runs tours to Como, but it's easy to do Como on your own, cheap train from Cadorna rail station (Ferrovie Nord) which brings you to the lakeside, where there are ferries to all over, and a nice bus to Bellagio, also very cheap. (Henry)

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Services

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Ä Where can I find a good hair stylist in Milan that is not too expensive?  I am a young woman and would like to get a cut and color, but I don't want to spend lots of money.  (I am a poor student!)  I would also prefer to find someone who speaks some English, because my italian is not very good yet. I searched online for any english speaking
hair salons in Milan, and the ones I found seem like they are very pricey.Reply ..... 29/10/07

Milan is generally acknownledged as a city where services are quite expensive and hair stylists are no exception. It depends, of course, on what you would like to have done to your hair, but 70€ is considedered not such an high price for a good haircut! At least that's what I've been told, 'cause I've never dared enter into a hair dressing salon in Mian!! With a little searching and practice, however, you can find a cheap haircut. Here are some adresses 
Avantario Nadia Parrucchiera Per Signora, 6, VIA PETRARCA FRANCESCO tel. 02 48007676
Beneventi Cesarina Parrucchiere Per Signora51/A, CORSO GARIBALDI GIUSEPPE tel. 02 86461569    (Miky)
 

Ä I will need a SIM card for the cell phone to do business while in Italy. I have heard that you cannot buy an Italian SIM card unless you are Italian resident. I have also heard that this is not true..  I need to know about how much I can purchase the SIm card for PREPAID? The price ofcourse is important and I need to be able to tell my boss this! Reply .....

          TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile) is the largest mobile phone provider in Italy offering a wide range of tariffs and services that can be tailored to the individual needs. It also offers convenient packages designed for foreigners travelling in Italy, usually including prepaid sim cards as well as GSM mobile phones. You can find detailed information about purchasing and rate conditions at  www.cellularabroad.com/italy        (Miky)

Ä Hi, I am intending to move back to the UK in December and was wondering if anyone could recommend a good moving company.  We dont have any furniture, but there should be about 20 boxes in total. Any advice would be appreciated, thanks! Reply .....

 The Sokol Trans is a moving company with a 30 year-experience operating national and international, , www.sokoltrans.it  sokoltrans@tiscali.it .

Also Viola Service  (VIOLA SERVICE piccola soc.coop.r.l.
tel: 346.2312843 / 346.2312844)  offers to the customers an international moving and transport service.     (Miky)

Ä Ciao tutti, does anyone know a repair service of a jewellery?
Unfortunately I have lost a small diamond of my wedding ring. Who can
replace it? Thanks!!! M. Reply .....

            Caponoe Gioielli is a well-renowned jewellery in Milan which boasts a variety of quality services, such as jewellery design, silverware cleaning and a repair service.  Caponoe Gioielli, Viale Piave 25  tel.0276021971 info@caponoe.it ( I

(Miky)

Ä I am visiting Milan from Oct 1^st to Oct 6^th Can we rent a mobile phone at the airport? 29/8/07 Reply .....

              I’m afraid this service is not available. If you need a mobile during your stay in Italy, check out the at  www.cellularabroad.com/italy      
                                                                                                                              (Miky)

Ä Hello. Please does anyone know of a hairdresser in milan which caters for afro hair? thanks.  Reply .....

Here are some hairdressers that cater for afro hair:

Afro Shop Cleopatra. Via Vitruvio, 5. Tel. e Fax +39 02 29.51.50.75

Afro Shop Cleopatra. Corso Buenos Aires, 35. Tel. 02-29515075
Gemel. Via M. Melloni, 16. Tel. 02-70002374 Fax 02-717073
Black and White Unisex Salon. Via Napo Torriani. Tel. 02-67071796

If any of these work out for you, let us know for future reference! Best, LF.

Ä Does anyone know of any libraries in Milan that have English novels?  Names and metro stops would be appreciated.  Thanks.  Reply .....

The Biblioteche Rionali have small sections for English and other foreign-language books. I listed them in the Libraries article (at the bottom) and I'll update this with Metro info ASAP. HN

Ä I would like the names (numbers if possible) of moving companies in Milan area to ship my household goods...  The company I'm using to store them is very expensive and I need to get some competitive bids.  If anyone has had a positive experience it would really help!  Hello Milano used to post adverts for moving companies but there aren't any in this issue.  Thanks, Charlotte. Reply .....

Here's one. Savino Del Bene SpA, Via del Botteghino 24-26, 50018 Scandicci (FI), tel. 055.52191, headquarters@sdb.it

Ä I am moving to Milan in late August. I have a question that perhaps your readers could answer:

Would you advise UK people to bring their mobile phones? I have been looking at the rates and they are quite expensive so thinking that it may be best for me to buy a mobile phone when I arrive in Milan. Your thoughts? Thanks! Allison. Reply .....

Just buy a sim card out here and you can put it in your old mobile phone.  It will cost you around 20 euro's. Regards, Damon

… careful, make sure your phone is compatible with Italian SIM cards. I come from the UK and my handset had to be unlocked - a service you have to ask for to your service provider at a cost. Francesca

i moved to como in june and the cost of my uk phone was extream! the best thing is to keep your uk phone for emergencies at home and buy an italian mobile to use here (or just change the sim card) i contact home using public phones and phone cards until my house phone is connected. good luck becky

Ä Im looking for TV channels other than CNN !) which are in English. Can someone please help on how we can get English Channels eg Sky Channels? Thanks, Tarun.Reply .....

Almost all movie channels on Sky offer the chance to switch on a different language and English is always available. Also, on Sky you can now get BBC Prime (offering all major TV series and soaps from BBC, all in English).

As far as sports channels are concerned, I'm afraid commentaries are all in Italian at the moment...  (FD)

Ä I am looking for an English speaking dentist and a doctor. Thanks. Reply .....

Here are two English-speaking medical studios:

International Health Center, www.ihc.it, tel. 02.7634.0720

AIMC American International Medical Center, www.iht.it/aimc, tel. 02.5831.9808

Ä Hello! I need a translator! Can anybody send me some web-sites of Italian translating agencies. Thank you! Reply .....

Ours, of course... www.artidea.co.uk

Ä I am interested in becoming au-pair in Italy. Does anybody know agencies or association that can help me in finding a family there? Posted 22.11.2005 Reply .....

Here is one agency: www.europlacements.it

Also see our Classifieds section for job advertisements

Ä I am an Australian Massage Therapist new to Mlan and I am trying to purchase a Massage Table. Anyone know where I can do that in Milan? Thanks. Kym. Posted 02.03.2006 Reply .....

Try Esteteam, Via V. Monti 81, www.esteteam.com; or Cerri, Via Panizza 9, 02.4692.586, info@cerri.it

Also try Eurocom, Via Cagnola 5  (M.Q.)

Ä Hi, I have excess baggage in Milan that I need shipped to Sydney, Australia. Do you have a list of shipment companies that I can contact for this service? Posted 22.12.06 Reply .....

Visit this website:
http://www.intlmovers.com/

TOP

Sights in Milan

Ä I will be in Milan for 1 week and I'm looking for an especially photogenic
location for some amateur portrait and casual fashion photography. I am
somewhat familiar with the Duomo area, but will be staying in the San
Donato area.Streets, buildings, alleys (safe), parks would all be candidates.
Are there any restrictions about model photography on the streets or
near the main tourist attractions? Reply ..... 26/11/07

Ä I will come in Milano in May and I am interested when
will be finished the reconstruction of Duomo Cathedral? Reply .....  

Restoration of the façade began in 2002 with an estimated duration of two years. It will go on until some time in 2007. (Henry)

I think never, or like italians say : domani... (E.C.)

Ä Good Morning. Two years ago we visited Milan while touring Italy.   We were disappointed that we could not see the facade of the Cathedral due to scaffolding and the protective cover.  We did have a great experience on the roof on a very cloudy day.   We are planning our European tour for next summer and would love to come back to Milan, only if the cleaning on the front of the Cathedral is finished and the scaffolding is removed.  Please advise if this has taken place or will be finished by this summer. Thank you. Thomas. Reply .....  

See above!

The latest reply straight from the Duomo Guard's mouth on the 9.11.06 was: the end of 2007, maybe into 2008 (M.Q.)

TOP

Sights/holidays outside Milan

Ä Hi, a friend and i are thinking about visisting for a summer holiday but she will only go if she gets to spend a bit of time at the beach! How far is the nearest beach?  Reply .....

The nearest beaches are in Genoa, about 1 hr away by car or train. You have to go to suburbs of Genoa along the coast, such as Quarto, Nervi or Bogliasco (going east from the centre of Genoa), or Arenzano (going west), because the central part of Genoa is wholly industrial. (h)

Ä I would like to see the 'Shroud of Turin' but I don't know how to purchase tickets?  Does anyone know a contact number or how to go about seeing it?  Reply .....

It is only put on show for special occasions. I saw it in 2000 for the Holy Year, it had been exhibited only five other times during the 20th century. Info at www.sindone.org HN

The Shroud is only shown at special times....the next viewing is 2025!!!  KDS

TOP

Shopping, sales

Ä hi. I was wondering if anyone can give me addresses of art/craft/paper shops in Milano?! Is there a Panduro shop in Milano?? Thanks for your help. Reply .....

Ä hello, I just moved to Milan and would like to purchase weight lifting accessories but don't know where to go to, need a hand with an address of a sports shop or its likes around Milan but preferrably close to Pieve Emmanuelle Reply .....
 

Ä Can anyone tell me the address and directions to the cp company /stone island outlet store from  central Milan. Reply .....

Ä I'll be in Milan from the 24th of Septempber till 26th. I'll need to buy a laptop. Can anyone advice where I can buy laptops and other electronics.. Please give directions to reach the stores. I heard of a Mac outlet, any idea where it is? Reply .....

 I couldn’t find any useful information about Mac outlet; however, Expert stores can offer you a wide range of quality electronic products at reasonable prices.

 F. Galbiati sas
Via Lazzaretto, 17 - 20124 Milano

Oriani Battista & C. snc Viale Fulvio Testi, 81 - 20162 Milano

Spazio Casa sas
Viale Lucania, 3 - 20139 Milano

Oriani Battista & C. snc
Via Monte Generoso, 8 A - 20156 Milano

Roberto Spinelli snc
Viale Zara, 108/114 - 20125 Milano

The store at the bottom of the list (Viale Zara 108/114) is probably the most easily accessible by public means of transport: at Duomo, you can take Line 3 (direction Maciachini) and get off at Zara station. To see a detailed Milan underground subway map www.nbts.it/milano/mappa_metropolitana    (Miky)

Ä Hi, we will spend one day shopping and starting out from Milan, I have checked for the address of these two stores: Armani Factory Store, Strada provinciale per Bregnano 13, Vertemate CO and Dolce & Gabbana factory store,  Via Rossini 72, Legnano. The problem is here, we plan to travel by train but Armani factory store does not seem reachable by train on the map, neither did Trenitalia site give us any solution (there is no station called Vertemate con Minoprio, maybe no train stops there?). So I guess the
only way is to take train from Milano to Como, and then take taxi from Como to Armani factory store?
Dolce & Gabbana factory store is relatively easy to reach though, it is closer to Milan and close to Legnano station. But the thing is that we have to visit the two stores, travelling can be quite tough. Do you know the price of taxi, if we set out from either store for another? Reply .....

 €0.77/sec and €32/ per hour are the typical taxi fares, effective in Milan and surrounding areas since 2002. Legnano is  35km away from Vetermate, which normally takes 30min. According to the tariff system, a 30 minute taxi ride should be approximately €15, but there may be extra charges, due to the fact that your destination is outside the departure city, either Legnano or Vetermate. (Miky)

Ä Hi, i'm planning to come to milan and i'm tyring to find out is there any BMX clothing store in milan. if there ain't any is there a store that sells fox, vans etc.? i was thinking that is corso di porta ticinese right place to search this kind of shop but isn't it too ethnic? thanks, jj   Reply .....

There's a place in Via Lazzaro Palazzi 2 (near Porta Venezia metro) called Uptown, that sells hip-hop and streetwear. Is that the same thing? Henry

Ä Hi, I have just arrived as a student Milano and now I wonder where I could find cheap supermarkets (like Lidl) in the city? Can you please help me out? Thanxx Max    Reply .....

Try STANDA and PAM. They seem to be the most economical. Plus Loreto and Duomo hold biweekly farmers markets. There is a Lidl near Lambrate station as well.

Ä Good day, Can you please advice the address of Armani factory store. Is it possible to go there by train from Milano, if so how long does it take. Thank you and best regards, Gudborg   Reply .....

Armani Factory Store, Outlet dello stilista Giorgio Armani
• Strada provinciale per Bregnano 13, Vertemate CO, tel. 031-887373
• Via Merloni 10, Matelica MC, tel. 0737-782352

I can’t find info on trains etc. but a train to Saronno from the Stazione Cadorna costs less than 6 Euros and then Vertemate must be a short taxi ride. Regards J. B.

Ä Ciao Tutti, I live outside of Milan, but get "to the city" every few weeks, I was hoping someone could direct me to any international or ethnic grocery stores in Milano or the provincia (also provincia of Varese).  Middle eastern, greek, things from england or the states, etc.  Also, if anyone knows of any used book fairs or stores which buys/trades used books that would  be great - even just a good market where I could sell or trade them.  Thanks in advance for any help offered. Leeza   Reply .....

              Try the Kathay International Foodstores in Via Rosmini 11

              (MM2 Moscova) & Piazza IV Novembre 4 (MM2 Centrale),

              or Superpolo in Largo La Foppa 1 (MM2 Moscova).

              As yet nothing for trading in used/selling English books.

              (M.Q)

Ä How far is the trade fair centre from any shopping area and good cafes? Reply .....

Cafe and shopping happily reign over Milan. But if you’re looking for designer duds then take the red line straight to Duomo (20mins) and stroll the neighboring streets for high class shopping and drinking. Beware of the Hollywood prices.

Ä I am looking for factory stores for Armani and also CP Company in Milan, I am travelling there soon, please help as I need to stock my stalls in uk  Reply .....

Go here http://www.factory-outlet-italy.com/en/FO/Milano-HL.html .

Ä I am interested in finding wholesalers in Milan or Bologne, for jeans, brand names such as Versage, Dolce Cabana, Armani, Staff&Go, Cavalli, etc to purchase for my shop in Cyprus. Please advise where I can find these information.   Reply .....  

 http://www.team-moda.it/eng.html As you’ll find out checking the site, Team offers you the possibility to purchase brand clothes at stock price. Both the show room (in Segrate) and the main office (in Cinisello Balsamo) are just outside Milan; you can also contact them by e-mail.

Ä Hi, I've just arrived over here and need to pay a visit to IKEA.  Does
anyone know if either of the IKEAs near Milan are accessible by public transport?  Thanks!  Reply .....

Hi  I believe that you can get to the Ikea at Carugate by bus from Cologno Nord metro station (end of the green line).  Failing that you can get a cab.  At Carugate there is also a shopping centre that contains a Carrefour.  George

Ä Hi, Are there any secondhand bookshops that buy/sell books in English? thanks! Reply .....

These are not secondhand bookshops but they might be interesting.

American Bookstore
via Camperio 16 - 20123 - MILANO
Tel: 02 878920

Hoepli International Bookstore
via Hoepli 5 - 20121
Tel: 02 864871
e-mail: hoepli@hoepli.it
German and English books.

Panton's English Bookshop
via Ariosto, corner via Mascheroni 12 - 20145
Tel: 02 4694468
e-mail : info@englishbookshop.it
Large store, also has childrens’ books. 12/4/07

Ä I am coming to Milan with 3 small children at the end of October.  I'd like to buy them some clothes and shoes whilst I'm there.  However, I'm not interested in Designer labels.  Where do Italians buy reasonably priced clothes for their children?  I have previously discovered Decathlon which is pretty good but there must be other stores too! Reply .....

My wife (Italian) says Upim, a department store chain. The most central is in Piazza San Babila. (Henry)

Ä Would anybody know where to buy fabrics (by meter/yard) for cloths? 'Usual' sizes - not for commerical use/whole salers. TY  Reply .....  

There are a lot of places in Milan. A few: Tessuti Raponi, Piazza Monte Titano (MM2 Lambrate), tel. 02.2153.900, Asnaghi Giacinto, Via Moscova 68 (MM2 Moscova), tel. 02.6597.706, Fonte della Moda, Via Melzo 19 (M;M1 Porta Venezia), tel. 02.2951.4105. More in the "Tessuti e stoffe" section of the Pagine Gialle (Yellow Pages). Henry

Ä I have been living in Italy for 18 years (in Milan since 96) but I still  miss a lot of things from the States I can't find here (like sour cream,  baking soda, Cheddar cheese, etc..)  The fresh stuff is logically  impossible to find but there are stores for other stuff. On Corso XXII Marzo (In front of the park "Largo Marinai D'Italia") in Milan on the corner next there is a frozen foods shop that has a lot of goodies, and there is another foreign food shop next to the main train station (standing in front of the station looking at it on your left). Does anyone know any other stores that sell things like instant gravy packets or things like that?  M in Milan  Reply .....  

Hi there. You can find lots of US and UK delicatessen at Superpolo chain. One is just outside Moscova MM station (Linea 2), one is near Corso Vercelli and a third one is in Viale Coni Zugna (Navigli area, MM Sant'Agostino). They sell all sort of things, from gravy to Heinz baked beans, American bagels and so on. Buon appetito! Francesca

Esselunga Superstores, not the smaller supermarkets in town chose the superstore, have a fairly good selection of some foreign food items. For example sour cream (perhaps called creme freche), american coffee.

Also at IKEA you'll find for example cranberry sauce and red cabidge for those who have northern European background.

LIDL is a another source, as it a German discount supermarket chain, it sells often German products like the real Wiener Sausages and the real Nuernberger Rostbrat-Sausages as well as the pickles (small gurkens).

Diet salami and chicken slices for those who watch weight.

In Winterseason they sell the goose entire and pieces. Like ALDI they offer special wines for low prices.

The other possibility is always to hop over to Lugano and visit the local supermarket their, the selection can be more international.

Regards Lilo

Hi, I lived in Milan 5 years ago, and I bought cheddar cheese in a wonderful shop, with hundreds of different kinds of cheeses. It is (I think) on Via Mercato or Corso Garibaldi. Also, Peck sells just about any kind of cheese, probably cheddar as well. There is a British shop on Via Ripamonti that sells cheddar cheese and probably the gravy packets you seek. Happy Shopping! Angela

Ä Please help with details of how we could travel from Milan airport (Malpensa) to Fox town . ...In mendrisio Switzerland. We prefer train or Bus. Thanks. Reply .....  

There is a train station attached to the Milan airport. Take a train there to Chiasso and there is a shuttle service from that train station to the outlet center. 12/4/07

Ä Hi, we are coming to milan in August hoping to do a lot of shopping. Is the summer sales on ? Tell us the best desinger out let stores to visit. Thanks Reply .....

August is not the best time to come to Milan for shopping, because many shops are shut for the whole month. The summer sales start JULY 7.

Re designer outlets, a few stores in the city stock a range of discounted designer clothing: Il Salvagente, Via Fratelli Bronzetti 16 (bus 62), Gruppo Italia Grandi Firme, Via Montegani 7/a (south, tram 3/15), RJ Outlet, Via Zumbini 37 (southwest, MM2 Famagosta), Diecidecimi, Corso Buenos Aires 34 (MM1 Lima). If you have transport, the Armani Factory Store at Vertemate con Minoprio, Via Provinciale per Bregnano 12 (near Como), is good. However all these may still be closed at the end of August.

Foxtown, a large multi-brand store at Mendrisio in Switzerland, offers a wide selection, with varying degrees of discount according to the label. This store is open all the year round. However according to recent news, if you buy stuff in Switzerland and bring it back to Italy, you have to pay tax at the border or run the risk of fines. If you don’t have transport, phone Maggioni, (+39) 339.3090.120, who runs a minibus service to Foxtown.

McArthur Glen at Serravalle Scrivia, near Alessandria, is a complete shopping village analogous to Foxtown. (Henry)

Ä I am thinking about visiting Milan on 30th and 31st December for shopping. Do you know whether the shops will be open on Via Montenapoleona please? thank you, S.Koya, London. Reply .....

Unfortunately the 30th and 31st of December are fairly quiet on the fashion front. Most stores close between 24 December and 6 January, for the Epiphany. If at all possible, you would do better to come within the first few weeks of January for the sales.

Ä Hello. I will be staying in Malcesine, Lake Garda in April for 8 days. I would like to visit the Armani Factory Store in Vertemate near Milan. Does anyone know how I can get there by bus or train? Does anyone have the email address for the Armani Factory Store? Thanks for your assistance. Moose Reply .....

Just take the train from Peschiera del Garda on the lake or Porta Nuova in Verona to the main stop in Como. The store is only a ten minute walk into the center of town. 12/4/07

Ä Hello, I recently returned from a wonderful two-week visit to Milan and Liguria. I would like to send my host a cook book written in Italian. I live in the states and have not been able to find any Italian bookstores on-line. Can anyone tell me the name of some bookstores that I would be able to access on-line? Thanks. NVL Posted 24.5.2006 Reply .....  

Consider using http://www.unilibro.it/?redirectt=si it’s an online bookstore for items printed in English and Italian.

 TOP

Sports/gym
 

Ä I have just moved to Milano from Canada 1 month ago and am looking to join a sports league.  At home I played a few different sports in a sport and social club league and am looking for something along the same lines.  I am hoping to find a reacreational league, preferably for volleyball, that is social and fun! Reply .....

Ä Hello, I'm nearly 17 and in Milan for the next year or so.  I used to play in goals for a football team back home and would like to join a team here to keep my hand in.  Anyone got any info.  Gaz  Reply .....

Since you used to play in a football team, you must be informed about all the documents and stuff required to join any football team regularly enrolled in an amateur championship. Together with the application form, you must include family documents, residence documents and certificate of health; as well as the annual fee (usually about 200 euro) comprising inscription fee, insurance and sport equipment. Here’s a list of some football teams in Milan; according to the Italian amateur championship classification, you would be playing as a ”Junores”(16-18 years).

www.asalgo.supereva.it , www.acabanella.it , www.aldinianaac.it ,  www.centroschuster.it       (Miky)

Ä My wife and 16 year old son is coming to join me but she would like to attend a gym/fitness centre and my son would like to continue playing football for a team.  Is there any in the Via Torino, Corso Di Porta Ticinese, Missori area that English speaking people attend? Mike S.  Reply .....

 There are plenty of gym/fitness centers in Milan, offering a wide range of

sporting and physical activites, alongside side things as massages, saunas and

relaxation programs. Here are some gyms located in the area you’re interested

in:

Caroli Health Club
Via Senato 11
Tel. 02.76.02.85.17
www.carolihealthclub.com

Down Town
Piazza Diaz 6
Tel. 02.86.31.181
www.downtownpalestre.it

Sanbabila Sportclub
Corso Venezia 2/a
Tel. 02.97.37.83.84
www.sanbabilasportclub.com

Skorpion
Corso Vittorio Emanuele 24
Tel. 02.78.14.24

Vertical Fit
Via Meravigli 12/14
Tel. 02.86.00.63

I think your wife may also find interesting the women specific programs and treatments  offered by two newly established health centers (not so far from the centre of Milan).

Fitness First Ladies Only
Largo Cairoli 71
Tel. 800.60.60.85
www.fitnessfirst.it

Activeline Center Crocetta
Corso di Porta Romana 116/A
Tel. 02.58.31.17.92
www.sportsman-club.it
I presume there may be English people clients, but I don’t know if there’s a place they usually attend. For a complete list of the main gym/fit centres in the centre of Milan

www.corriere.it/vivimilano/sport

                                                                      (Miky)

Ä I am moving to Milan soon. Is there skating rinks in Milan? I am an ex-figure skating coach and thought I would bring my skates just in case! A.G.  Reply .....

There is a good ice skating rink in Milan near the intersection of  Corso XXII Marzo and Viale Umbria: Palaghiaccio - Via Piranesi 14 - Milano. Mark

The Agorà Stadio del Ghiaccio is in Via dei Ciclamini 33, Metro line 1 Primaticcio, tel. 02.48.300.946, www.stadioghiaccio.it. According to their website, it's open Fri 21.30-00.30, Sat 15.00-18.00, 21.30-00.30, Sun 10.00-12.00, 15.00-18.00, closed other days, but I'd give them a phone call before trekking out there. (Henry)

The Palaghiaccio in Via Piranesi is, I think, being refurbished at present. Further info from www.opencare.it, tel. 02.73981, email info@opencare.it

Ä Hi All, I am EMT and working in Milan for a year. I would really like to attend exercise classes without having to join a gym.  Just wondering if anyone knew of any. Thanks. Reply .....  

Check out http://www.palestre.milano.it/index.php. 

Ä Recently moved to Milano and looking to play Field Hockey. Have played previously in Ireland, Hong Kong and UK. Does anybody know any clubs locally? Reply .....  

Hi, I know that it is not Milan but it only takes an hour to reach Lugano where there are mens, womens and juniors teams - see hacl.ch. We train Tue and Thu from 8pm and play in the Swiss 2nd division. We have Dutch, British, Swiss, Italian and Australian players and an Argentine coach. Let me know if you have any queries. Prit

Ä I am looking for a good riding school in (?!) or very close to Milan, that is accessible by public transport.  I am an experienced rider and miss not being able to take regular lessons.
Dr Rebecca S.  Reply .....

             Clup Ippico Ticino is a riding school situated in the natural reserve of Parco dei Lagoni, a wonderful area on Lake Maggiore, www.lagomaggioreonline.it/scuola_equitazione .I used to take lessons there and still go for some rides! Thought it is not so far from Milan, it is not “very close”; you can reach it, however, by train (direction Domodossola, Sesto Calende stop), but once you’ve got there, you would experience some trouble to reach the park by public transport.

              Nearer to Milan, you can find a riding school also in Legnano (by train, direction Domodossola): La Stella hippic centre
Via Novara, 220  - 20025 Legnano (MI)
Tel. +39 0331.592002 - Fax e segreteria +39 0331.457812
web site: www.cilastella.it

                                                                      (Miky)

Ä I have been working in Milan since December last year and would like to join a rugby team and was wondering therefore what my options were.
What teams are there in and around Milan? Many thanks,  Alex L. Reply .....

                 Contact the Friend's English Pub as they have a Rugby

                 Group that visits regularly to watch the matches.

                 Call 02.2900.5315. (M.Q)

Ä Hi! I will be coming to Milan at the end of August, I am female and speak very little Italian, but I will be studying to learn more.  Do you know of a gym I could join? I don't know what area I will be living in yet, so maybe list a few! Thanks so much, Laura Reply .....

Check out http://www.palestre.milano.it/index.php. The site is in Italian so here are a few translations to help your search go smoother. Marziali means martial, and meditative indicates yoga and similar forms.

Ä I just moved to Milan from the states and am an avid snowboarder.
Unfortunately I had to leave all my equipment at home.  Are there any good swap meets or stores to go to during the fall to find cheap used
ski/snowboarding equipment? Posted 28.9.05 Reply .....

Keep checking craigslist.org. Or you can always use ebay.  

ÄHi there. I'm in Milan for a training course for a couple of weeks and am a big NFL (american football) fan.  Does anyone know if there are any sports bars in Milan which show NFL games - live or recorded ??  I'd be grateful for any help on this if possible - especially for the Sunday 23/10 games. Thanks ! Posted 17.10.05 Reply .....

Possibly Louisiana, via Fiori Chiari 17, phone 02 8646 5315. American-owned.

19.11.06: This bar is now closed, you can try The English Football Pub in Via Valpetrosa 5, phone 02.8644.64

Ä Does anyone know of a ladies' lacrosse team in Milan? I'm keen on taking up the sport again, if anyone's up for it!
Thanks, Diana Reply .....

 This typical North American team sport is not popular in Italy, where soccer is      still the national sport. Lacross is actually unknown to the majority of Italians and that’s the reason why there is no professional league. However, there is an amateur league, along with 4 inter cross teams, in the Lecco area ( Provincia di Lecco :Lecco, Vercurago, Merate e Olginate).

Besides, you may be interested to know about the Milan Cricket Club, http://web.tiscali.it/mcc/ ; the club welcomes all nationalities with an interest in cricket whether as players or social members, and organizes pleasant Saturday afternoon matches. It’s not Lacrosse, but it may remind you of the atmosphere!And what about founding a “Milanese” ladies’ lacrosse team? It would surely help promoting this sport!!     (Miky)

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Tours in Milan, outside Milan

Ä Hi, I will be arriving in Milan in about two weeks. I would like information on boat tours in the Navigli (or outlying areas). I have tried, without much luck, to find a reservation agent, schedule, or anything on line and I cannot seem to find anything!  Help! thank you. Lisa  Reply .....

The Viscontea boat trips on the Naviglio used to be run by Incoming Partners. It appears to be no longer running. See their website at www.incomingpartners.it

19.11.06: Naviga Sul Naviglio, wwwnavigliogrande.mi.it, phone 02.8940.9971

Ä I'm planning to arrive in Milan late June and will stay for about 11-12 days. We plan to visit Lake Como area, Venice, Siena, Montalcino and Portofino - returning to Milan at end of visit. We are interested to know about arranging for a car/driver to assist in our travels and to eliminate train, bus etc. Any ideas? Regards, JDD - Ohio USA   Reply .....

 See www.friendinmilan.co.uk

Ä We will be in Milan for a very short time enroute to Venice. Train arrives at 9:10 am at Milano centrale and we leave by 11:05 or 12:05 train. Is it possible to visit the 'last supper' in such a short time?  How far is the station from the painting? I am aware of the ticket and reservations requirement but am unable to decide if I should reserve not knowing if we can make back for the train. Can one take a tour of Milan major sight seeings in 3 hrs? Are there ways to arrange such tours on the Milan centrale train station? Does the train station have luggage storing facilities for such short periods? Thanks.  Reply .....

Station-Last Supper by taxi: 20 minutes, perhaps less. You can also get there by public transport, Metro line 3 to Duomo, then line 1 to Conciliazione, then 10 mins walk, allow 30 minutes total. So if you reserve the Last Supper visit at 10.15 or 10.30, you will finish at 10.30 or 10.45, with ample time to catch the 12.05 train.

For a tour of the city, the only possibility is a personalised tour such as those offered by A Friend in Milan, which can start at any time and have 1-2-3 hr duration. The Autostradale coach tour starts at 9.30, I don't think you'd make it if you have to store your luggage, and it lasts for 3 hrs so you wouldn't catch the 12.05 train. There is a Left Luggage office in the central station, in the first floor departures gallery. You can leave your luggage there for just a few hours. Henry.

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Transport

Ä II would like to know how do I get to foxtown from olio al serio?then from foxtown to milan?thank you. Nadheera Farzaana Amiruddin. Reply .....
 

Could you advise me on the best way of doing this, and if possible some train/bus timetables. Thank you.Reply ..... 16/11/07

What a wonderful itinerary!! A bus service is available form Malpensa airport to Lake Como, with some rides stopping at Menaggio.

Departure from: Terminal 1-Exit 4-Stop 13
Timetable: 08.30 a.m. - 01.00 p.m. - 07.30 p.m. from Monday to Saturday
Duration Time: 1 h
Price: Malpensa-Como € 13.00
Malpensa-Menaggio € 11.00
Tickets can be bought at Airport 2000
Remarks: The journey of 12.20 a.m. stops at Menaggio

As for reaching Vernazza, I advise you to go back to Como S.Giovanni station by bus. Bus line C10 of SPT company connects Menaggio with Como S.Giovanni station(about 32km). Buses leave from Garibaldi Square about every half an hour (5.20 a.m.-19.04 p.m.). For the complete timetable of Como-Menaggio and Menaggio-Como line, www.sptlinea.it/pdf/invernale. In order to reach Vernazza,  you ought to travel by train but, unfortunately, you'll have to change station. Here's a list of some of the most "easiest" solutions

-14:54, 175Cisalpino Cinque Terre train (reservation needed) from Como to Sestri(18:42); 24523 local train from Sestri station to Vernazza station (19:27)

-11:12,171Cisalpino Teodolinda train from Como to Milan Central statio(11:50); 635 Fausto Coppi train (reservation needed) from Milan to Sestri(14:42); 24525 local train from Sestri station to Vernazza station (15:27);

-12:54, 173Cisalpino Canaletto train from Como to Milan Central Station(13:35);

655Tigullio  train from MIlan to Rapallo (16:25); 2051 local train from Rapallo to Vernazza(17:34)

The timetable refers to the winter season, and additional trains are usually available during the summer. On your way back to Milan, use again the national railway. Consider the folllowing solutions

-10:30, 24504 local train from Vernazza to MRosso(10:34); 662Tigullio train from MRosso to MIlan Central Station(13:50)

-12:21, 24508 local train from Vernazza to Sestri(13:00); 176Cisalpino Cinque Terre train from Sestri to Milan Central Station.

Three bus companies (MALPENSA BUS EXPRESS, +39.02.33910794;
STIE, +39.0331.519000; CARONTE, +39.02.2407954) provide a bus service connecting Milan central station with Malpensa airport.

Arrival: Terminal 1-exit 6-stop 3
Timetable: from 06.35 a.m. to 11.35 p.m. Every day / two buses every hour at 35´ and 55´
Duration Time: 50´
Price: € 5.50
Tickets can be bought at Agenzia Autostradale - arrivals floor or on the bus
Remarks: The bus stops also at Terminal 2 and, on request, at Fiera Milano (via Teodorico)

Enjoy your Italian tour!! (Miky)

Ä I need to get to Via Villapizzone 24, 20156 from Cadorna Station.
1.  Which metro do I take?
2.  Which metro stop would I need to get off?Reply .....  13/11/07

I think you you will be able to reach Via Villapizzone 24 by taking both a metro and a tram line. First, take the green line at Cadorna station, direction Coiogno/Gessate. Get off at the next stop, Lanza. From here, you need to take tram12, direction Roserio. Get off at C.Marcello Villapizzone stop, which is about the 15th tram stop from Lanza.    (Miky)

Ä Please advise me how I can get from Malpensa airport to Lake Como.Reply .....

  6/11/07

You can easily reach Lake Como by bus. The airport is connected by bus service with major Northen Italy cities and tourist spots, including Lake Como. At the following address you'll find all the information about timetable and prices www.sea-aeroportimilano.it/malpensa (Miky)
 

Ä Would like to know if I can buy a ticket to go to trento at the Milano Central station 2 days before departure? and where shall I buy it? Thanks Reply .....

You can indeed buy tickets in advance at the Central station. There are machines (English available) and plenty of ticket counters. I have found that many of these ticket counters can be crowded, however there is an alternative tucked around the corner and out of sight from most people. If you stand at the front facing Central station and then walk to the right hand side, you’ll find the taxi rank. To the left hand side of the taxi rank there is a small office where they sell tickets, and here there is rarely a line up.

Ä Hi. I will be staying in Florence next month but I am going to a concert at the Idroscalo in Milan. How do I get there from Florence? I know that the Firenze SMN station is nearby where I'm staying in Florence. I believe I can take the train into Milan from here but will this leave me close to the Idroscalo? How do I get to the Idroscalo from the train station in Milan? Please let me know. Thanks!Reply .....
 

 Unfortunately, the Idroscalo isn’t so close to the Central Station, being located in the east area outside Milan ( Segrate and Peschiera Borromeo, about 30 minutes away). However, Bus 73/ takes you as far as the Idroscalo,  near the bleacher reserved section, the end of the line being Peschiera Borromeo. The bus  leaves from S.Babila-Corso Europa corner, and you can get there by the subway: first, take line 3 from “Stazione Centrale” to “Duomo” (San Donato direction); then, take line 1 until “S.Babila” (Sesto direction). To see Milano underground subway map, www.nbts.it/milano/mappa_metropolitana  For contacts tel. 02.7020.0902 - Fax 7020.8388
E-mail: infoidropark@provincia.milano.it      (Miky)

Ä I need to go from Bergamo airport to Stresa for a conference in October, by public

transport in the quickest and the cheapest way. Can you help me. Reply .....

You can reach the Milano Central Station by bus. The Airport provides an efficient bus shuttle service, with buses leaving every 30 minutes. Once you’ve reached Milan, Eurostar City trains are probably the quickest (tough not the cheapest) means of transport to get to Stresa: there are plenty of ticket counters and machines (English available) where you can purchase your ticket.

                                                                    (Miky)

Ä Please can someone provide me with the phone number for trenitalia - calling from the uk? thanks  Reply .....

The area code for italy is +39. All other information can be found at http://www.trenitalia.com/en/area_clienti/call_center/index.html. 13/4/07

Ä Hi, I'm an Australian student hoping to gain some practical experience in a hospital in Vimercate. I was wondering how long it takes to commute between Vimercate and Milano city (for tourist purposes!), and the approximate cost? What is the best way to do this (Bus or rail)? Thank you very much for your time.   Reply .....

If you take a taxi from central Vimercate to Milan’s central train station it will cost around 45 euro. Or you can take a 25 euro taxi to the cologno nord metro station and take into Milan. But the most affordable means of transportaion would be to use M2 metro line and the 2034 line combination that connects Milan to Cologno N. to Vimercate.

Ä I need to know a good meeting place to meet up with another person coming into Malpensa airport on a later international flight. We will be leaving on the Malpensa Express. Does this train have only one departure point from the terminal?Reply .....

If you are planning to depart on the Malpensa Express, you can meet at the bar near the platforms for the Malpensa Express trains. The bar is on the same level that you buy your tickets for the Malpensa Express, just above the train platforms (next to the moving walkway that takes you down to the platform). There is only one bar with small tables in front of it - you can't miss it! To get to the area where Malpensa Express departs, follow the signs... it will be in the direction of the car rental agencies.
Inside Malpensa, all international flights arrive at the "B Gate". Right near there you can find the "Information Point" which is next to the Sicily store, you can't miss it. This could be another meeting spot. (A.S.)

ÄI live in Florida and I will be flying to Malpensa Airport this May, then traveling on to visit my grandson in Brescia. I would appreciate advice on making train connections at the airport and any other connections I may need to make. I have never traveled alone. Thank you, Barbara. Posted 2.3.06 Reply .....

Probably the best and cheapest way to do it is to take the Malpensa Shuttle coach service (www.malpensashuttle.it) or the Malpensa Bus Express coach service (5-6 euro), from Malpensa to Piazza Luigi di Savoia, Milan, alongside the Central Station. From here you just have to buy a ticket Milan-Brescia (7-10 euro) and get on the train (www.trenitalia.com). Otherwise you can take the Malpensa Express train service (E 11, www.malpensaexpress.it), but this takes you to Cadorna station, which means that you'd have to take the Metro underground train (line 2) to get to Milano Centrale F.S. (Central Station). Your grandson could buy the Milan-Brescia rail ticket for you and post it, which would save you waiting in the queue at the ticket office. Remember to frank the rail ticket in the yellow machine before getting on the train! (H)

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Work

Ä Hi. I just moved to Milan and I'm looking for a job. I'm qualified, certified tefl teacher. I'm not a native speaker though and therefore most language schools won't employ me (even though I have 4 years teaching experience, and lived and worked in UK for 2 years). Any advice on where I should be looking for a job? Is there a big demand for private lessons in Milam? Reply .....
 

Ä Hello! I'm brazilian but i've got the italian citizenship. my cousin and I arrived in milan last week and already have an apartment. we are now looking for a job in the city, especially one that would require fluent english, since we both lived in the united states and studied the language for many years. We thought about asking in pubs and places like that, but we are not sure. Does anyone know what the best option would be? we speak some italian, but it's not fluent yet. any tip would be extremely helpful! thanks in advance! :) 28/9/07 Reply .....

              I think there is a great demand for foreign people who can fluently speak English, especially in a tourist city like Milan. Pubs, bars or even restaurants may provide good job opportunities. Otherwise, why don’t you make the most of your knowledge of both Brazilian and English? First of all, it may be helpful to contact the Brazilian Consulate in Milan
Corso Europa, 12 – 20122 Milano
Tel +39 02 777 1071 - Fax +39 02 7601 5621 / 8
E-mail: cgmilao@sofit.it
www.consbrasmilao.it

            Next to the Consulate is IBRIT’s main office

             Via Borgogna 3 (MM1 San Babila) Tel. +39 02-76011320 / +39 0276392273, Mon-Fry 10.00-21.00

              The Brazilian-Italian Institute promotes Brazilian culture in Milan by organising cultural events as well as Portuguese courses. They may give you some useful tips or even need your help. If you check out the site, you’ll find more information at  www.ibrit.it          (Miky)

Ä Can provide me with sites of job agencies? I am experienced in Travel, Tour Guide/Rep, and am working for a British Tour Operator in Sorrento in the resort office so have admin/computer skills. I have worked in the Veneto / Lake Garda and Dolomites area for 5 winters too Have 13 years of Customer Service Experience. Speak Italian. Have also got TEFL teaching Englis cert. Looking for admin work, office, not necessarily in Travel, even for an International company, Trade or Congress. Thanking you, Sarah   Reply .....

Some job agency sites: www.interinaleitalia.it; www.adecco.it; www.adinterim.it; www.alispa.it; www.allbecon.it; www.antexlavorint.it; www.cinterim.it; www.coservinterim.it; www.creyfsinterim.it; www.easyjob.it; www.elettraservices.it; www.ergonline.it; www.etjca.it; www.eurointerim.it; www.e-work.it; www.gevi.it; www.genind.it; www.injob.it

Ä Hi. I am an English photographer just arrived in Italy, setting up near Milan. Does anyone know where I would find professional associations, labs, trade publications, exhibitions, agencies, contacts - anything in fact to do with the professional photographic world relating to Milan and Italy. Thanks, Peter.  Reply .....

The Superstudio, Via Tortona 27 and Via Forcella 13 (near Porta Genova metro) is a large complex of fashion photography, TV and cinema studios. They rent studios and equipment. There is a bar and restaurant in the same complex (in Via Bugatti) where you can meet people in the business. Also the Università dell'Immagine, Via Bugatti 5, and model agencies, often interested in new photographers for "testing". In that area there are John Casablancas, Via Bugatti 3, and Flash, Via Tortona 14. At the larger photography stores you can find a lot of info, such as at Unionfotomarket, Viale Certosa 36, and SMAF, Via Timavo 32. Galleries specialising in photography include Carla Sozzani, Corso Como 10; Grazia Neri, Via Maroncelli 14; Photology, Via della Moscova 25. Agfa sometimes runs exhibitions in its premises in Via Grosio 10/4 (near Cimitero Maggiore). H

Ä Hi, I want to start a bed in breakfast in a apartment I rent in central Monza. Is there any legalities I should be aware off, or any registering that is required to prevent problems. Thanks. Reply .....

I think that there are legal questions, because there are fairly stringent rules on all forms of accommodation (hotels etc.). This is one of the reasons why B&Bs are relatively rare in Italy. Try www.bbitalia.it which has pages in English. (Henry)

The best source for information about opening a B&B is ANBBA the national association of Bed & Breakfast owners. Go to their website at: www.anbba.it and see the details. We run a B&B in Milan, in the Navigli district, and am a member of ANBBA. My wife and I also took a one day course organized by them which was very helpful. They organize courses regularly so just take a look at their website. All information and courses are in Italian. (Pier & Ann)

Hallo, a suggestion for all the women who want to open a B & B: you might contact the Spazio Rosa c/o Job Caffe’ in Corso di Porta Vittoria, 27 (in front of the tribunale), Milan. Tel 02-77403309. They organise free workshops, and one of them has B & B as subject. It is a service provided by the Provincia di Milano. They speak stricty only Italian. Open Mon and Fri 9.00-13.00, Tues, Wed and Thurs 15.00-19.00.

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