Washington DC Temple Concert: A Photo and Video Celebration

As you drive through Highway 495 near Kensington, Maryland, the majestic Washington D.C. Temple ⭐will soar above you, its spires piercing the sky.

The temple is the tallest temple in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), with a spire that reaches 288 feet into the sky. It is also the first temple to feature six spires since the construction of the Salt Lake Temple, which inspired the design.

The Washington D.C. Temple was dedicated on September 17, 1974, after an open house that attracted over 750,000 people, including several international dignitaries. The temple was the first temple built by the church east of the Mississippi River since 1846, when the original Nauvoo Temple was dedicated.

After viewing the Washington D.C. Temple from Highway 495 for over 40 years, I finally had the opportunity to visit it as part of the Yage Chorus of Washington Annual Concert. 

The photo gallery and concert footage below, recorded on 06/03/2023, are a testament to the special experience.

Photo Gallery

Washington D.C. Temple Visitors' Center

Concert Footage

舞蹈 六月清荷 (YouTube link)

Dancing: Our Lives Full of Sunshine (YouTube link)

二胡獨奏 喜看麥田千層浪 (YouTube link)

梨花頌與送別：兩首經典歌曲合唱 (YouTube link)

閃亮的日子 (YouTube link)

When We Were Young (YouTube link)

Lugano: A Swiss Gem with Mediterranean Flair

TOP 10 Things to do in Lugano, Switzerland (YouTube link)

Lugano ⭐is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland, and for good reason. This beautiful city, located on Lake Lugano in southern Switzerland, offers stunning scenery, a relaxed atmosphere, and a variety of activities to enjoy.

Lugano is home to a number of historic buildings and museums, as well as many natural sights in the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the charming city center, take a boat trip on Lake Lugano, or visit the Monte Bre for stunning views of the city and the lake.

Lake Lugano and the surrounding mountains provide a wide variety of outdoor activities. The area surrounding Lugano is home to over 300 kilometers (190 miles) of mountain biking trails, making it one of the most popular destinations for mountain biking in Switzerland.

View an interactive version of Google MyMaps here

Things to See and Do

Lugano is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean climate, the stunning scenery, and the relaxed atmosphere.

There are many things to see and do in Lugano, including:

• Visit the historic city center
• The city center is full of narrow streets and alleyways, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Be sure to visit the Piazza della Riforma, the main square in the city center.
• Take a boat trip on Lake Lugano
• Lake Lugano is one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland. You can take a boat trip to explore the lake and its surrounding mountains.
• The most popular way to reach Chiesa Santa Maria del Sasso is by boat. There are regular boat services from Lugano to Morcote, the village where the church is located. Once in Morcote, you can take a short walk up to the church.
• Visit Parco Ciani
• A beautiful lakeside park with stunning views, gardens, and a variety of activities to enjoy.
• Visit the Monte Bre
• The Monte Bre is a mountain that overlooks Lugano. You can take a funicular to the top of the mountain for stunning views of the city and the lake.
• Explore the Monte San Salvatore
• Hike to the top of Monte San Salvatore for stunning views of Lugano and Lake Lugano.
• Visit the Santa Maria degli Angioli church
• This church is home to a fresco by Bernardino Luini, a student of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Visit Museums
• LAC Lugano Arte e Cultura—A cultural hub in Lugano, Switzerland, with a focus on the visual arts, music, and performance arts.
• Swiss Customs Museum—Learn about the fascinating world of customs and border control at the Swiss Customs Museum in Lugano
• Hermann Hesse Museum
• Hermann Hesse Museum in Lugano offers a serene and inspiring experience for fans of the author's work.
• Visit Swissminiatur
• A miniature open-air museum that features miniature replicas of famous Swiss landmarks and villages.
• Enjoy local cuisine
• Lugano's restaurants offer a diverse culinary experience, from traditional Ticinese dishes to modern Italian cuisine. Try local specialties like polenta, Luganese sausage, Formaggella Ticinese cheese, and Merlot wine.
• Shop at Via Nassa
• A luxurious shopping street with exclusive boutiques, high-end fashion stores, and luxury brands.
• Lugano is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors
• There are many hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area. You can also swim, boat, and fish in Lake Lugano.

Lugano 🇨🇭 Switzerland at its best (YouTube link)

References

1. Lugano (Wikipedia)

Rome Travel: Tips for Planning and Enjoying Your Visit

Rome ⭐⭐is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. Rome is a city steeped in history and culture, with something to offer everyone.

 

TOP 10 Things to do in ROME (YouTube link)

How many days to visit Rome?

The ideal number of days to visit Rome depends on your interests and how much time you have available.

Suggested itineraries for a 3-day and 5-day trip to Rome:

3-day trip:

• Day 1: Visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill.
• Day 2: Visit the Vatican City, including St. Peter's Square and the Sistine Chapel.
• Day 3: Visit the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Piazza Navona.

5-day trip:

• Day 1: Visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Palatine Hill.
• Day 2: Visit the Vatican City, including St. Peter's Square and the Sistine Chapel.
• Day 3: Visit the Trastevere neighborhood and enjoy its lively atmosphere.
• Day 4: Take a day trip to Pompeii, an ancient Roman city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
• Day 5: Visit the Appian Way, an ancient Roman road that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Of course, this is just a suggestion, and you can tailor it to your own interests. If you are interested in history, you could spend more time visiting the ancient ruins. If you are interested in art, you could spend more time visiting the museums and galleries. And if you are interested in food, you could spend more time sampling the local cuisine.

View an interactive version of Google MyMaps here

Rome's Iconic Attractions and Fountains

Iconic Attractions

Must-see attractions:

• Vatican City
• This is the smallest country in the world and is home to the Pope. It is also home to St. Peter's Square and the Sistine Chapel.
• For more information, see the companion article here.
• Baths of Caracalla (Thermae Antoninianae in Latin)
• The Baths of Caracalla (Thermae Antoninianae in Latin) were a public bath complex in ancient Rome. 
• They were the second largest baths in the city, after the Baths of Diocletian. The baths were built between 212 and 216 AD by the emperor Caracalla and were used for bathing, exercise, and socializing
• Pantheon
• This is a former Roman temple that was converted into a church in the 7th century AD. It is one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Rome.
• Ticket can be booked here.
• Spanish Steps
• These are a set of 135 steps that lead up to the Trinità dei Monti church. They are a popular tourist destination and are often used as a backdrop for photo shoots.
• Piazza Navona
• This is a large square that is home to three beautiful fountains. It was once the site of a Roman stadium.
• Villa Borghese Gardens
• The Villa Borghese Gardens are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome. The gardens cover an area of about 80 hectares (197 acres) and contain a variety of attractions including Borghese Gallery which is home to a collection of Renaissance art, including works by Caravaggio and Bernini. 
• The Altar of the Fatherland  (Altare della Patria in Italian) 
• This is a large white marble monument located in Piazza Venezia in the heart of Rome. 
• The Altar of the Fatherland is one of the largest monuments in Italy and is considered to be a symbol of Italian national unity. It was designed by Giuseppe Sacconi and was built between 1885 and 1935.
• Colosseum
• This is an oval amphitheater that was built in the 1st century AD. It was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles.
• Roman Forum and Palatine Hill
• This was the center of ancient Rome and was once home to the Senate House, the Temple of Julius Caesar, and other important buildings.
• Appian Way
• This is an ancient Roman road that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular tourist destination and is known for its historical significance.
• The Catacombs of San Callisto and the Catacombs of San Sebastiano are two of the most popular catacombs in Rome. Both catacombs are located on the Appian Way.
• Trastevere
• This is a historic neighborhood that is known for its narrow streets, lively atmosphere, and good restaurants.

These are just a few of the many attractions in Rome. With so much to see and do, you are sure to have a memorable time in this fascinating city.

Iconic Fountains

Rome's Iconic Fountains

• Trevi Fountain
• This is the largest and most famous fountain in Rome. It is located in the Piazza di Trevi and is a popular tourist destination. The fountain is decorated with sculptures of sea gods and tritons. There is a tradition that if you throw a coin into the fountain, you will return to Rome one day.
• Fontana di Quattro Fiumi
• This fountain is located in Piazza Navona and is another popular tourist destination. The fountain is decorated with sculptures of four river gods: the Nile, the Danube, the Ganges, and the Rio de la Plata.
• Fontana del Tritone
• This fountain is located in Piazza Barberini and is one of the most beautiful fountains in Rome. The fountain is decorated with a sculpture of a Triton, a sea god, blowing a conch shell.
• Fontana del Nettuno: 
• This fountain is located in Piazza del Nettuno and is a Baroque fountain. The fountain is decorated with a sculpture of Neptune, the god of the sea.
• Fontana della Barcaccia: 
• This fountain is located in Piazza di Spagna and is a Baroque fountain. The fountain is decorated with a sculpture of a boat that is sinking in the water.
• Fontana delle Api
• This fountain is located in Piazza Navona and is a lesser-known fountain. The fountain is decorated with sculptures of bees, which are a symbol of the Barberini family, who commissioned the fountain.

These are just a few of Rome's many iconic fountains. With its rich history and culture, Rome has something to offer everyone. Be sure to add a visit to these stunning fountains to your itinerary when you visit the Eternal City.

The operating times of Rome’s public transportation services

The operating times of Rome's public transportation services are as follows:^[1]

• Metro: 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM on weekdays, and 5:30 AM to 1:30 AM on weekends
• Buses: 5:30 AM to midnight daily
• Trams: 5:30 AM to midnight daily

Note: Some bus and tram routes may operate on reduced schedules or may not operate at all on certain days of the week or during holidays. It is always best to check the website of the local public transportation company for the most up-to-date information.

NCCs vs Taxis in Italy

NCCs and taxis are both popular transportation options in Italy, but there are some key differences between the two.

NCCs

• NCC stands for Noleggio Con Conducente, which means "rental with driver" in Italian.
• NCCs are licensed by the government and are required to have a special insurance policy. NCC drivers are also required to pass a background check and have a good driving record.
• NCCs can be booked in advance or on demand. They are often used for airport transfers, city tours, and other special occasions. NCCs are also a popular choice for business travelers, as they offer a more comfortable and professional experience than taxis.

Taxis

• Taxis are not required to have a special license or insurance policy. Taxi drivers are also not required to pass a background check or have a good driving record.
• Taxis can be hailed on the street or found at designated taxi ranks. Taxis are typically less expensive than NCCs, but they may be less comfortable and reliable.

Here are some of the benefits of using an NCC in Italy:

• NCCs are more comfortable and spacious than taxis.
• NCC drivers are more professional and knowledgeable than taxi drivers.
• NCCs are more reliable than taxis.
• NCCs offer a wider range of services than taxis, such as airport transfers, city tours, and business travel services.

However, NCCs are also more expensive than taxis.

If you are looking for a comfortable, reliable, and professional transportation service in Italy, then an NCC is a good option to consider. NCCs are especially popular with business travelers and tourists who are looking for a more personalized experience.

Taking a Taxi in Rome: Tips and Advice

This article on Euronews discusses the challenges of finding a taxi in Italy. It states that there are a number of factors that contribute to this problem, including:

• A limited number of taxi licenses: The number of taxi licenses in Italy is regulated by the government, and there are only a limited number of licenses available. This means that there is a high demand for taxis, but a limited supply.
• Taxi drivers' unions: Taxi drivers' unions in Italy have historically opposed any attempts to increase the number of taxi licenses. This is because they fear that an increase in the number of taxis would reduce the value of their licenses.
• Public transportation: Public transportation in Italy is often unreliable and overcrowded. This leads many people to rely on taxis, which further increases the demand.

Despite these challenges, the article provides a number of tips for finding a taxi in Italy, such as:

• Calling a taxi company in advance
• Going to a taxi stand
• Using a ride-sharing app

How to avoid taxi scams in Italy

Here are some tips to help you avoid taxi scams in Italy:

• Book your taxi in advance, even if you arrive at the airport.
• This will give you a chance to know the right fare and avoid being charged extra for things like luggage or air conditioning.
• Look for white taxis or rentals with driver (i.e., NCC). 
• These are the only licensed taxis in Italy.
• If you choose a white taxi, open a map on your phone and check that the driver is taking the shortest route. 
• If you think they are trying to fool you, tell them that you will call the police. The emergency number in Italy is 112.
• Do not believe in extras. 
• The fare should be the one that was agreed upon at the beginning of the trip. If the driver tries to charge you for extra things, refuse to pay.
• If you are staying at a hotel, do not ask for a taxi at the reception desk. 
• Many hotels have deals with taxi companies and will charge you a commission for booking a taxi. Instead, book your taxi yourself or ask the hotel to call you a white taxi.
• It is not always easy to pay by credit card in Italy, but taxis and rentals with driver are required to accept credit card payments. 
• If the driver tells you that you can only pay in cash, tell them that you do not have any cash and that you will pay with your card or call the police.

Tips from Salvo Scovazzo, a licensed taxi driver in Italy:^[10]

• Always book your taxi with someone you trust. 
• This could be a friend, family member, or hotel concierge.
• Be wary of anyone who approaches you and offers you a taxi ride. 
• These people may be unlicensed drivers who are trying to scam you.
• If you have any problems with a taxi driver, call the police. 
• The emergency number in Italy is 112.

I hope this information is helpful. Please stay safe and enjoy your trip to Italy!

References

1. A guide for getting around Rome using public transportation
2. Vatican Museums
• The entry ticket for the Vatican Museums entitles the visit to the Museums and Sistine Chapel solely on the day on which the ticket is issued.
• Tickets cannot be refunded.
3. Italy Travel—Italy’s Train System
4. A brief station guide Rome Termini
5. Price of a Taxi to and from Rome’s Airports
6. Google search "Stazione Taxi" for official Taxi Stands
7. How to plan the perfect day in Trastevere, Rome
8. ATAC (Azienda Trasporti Autoferrotranviari del Comune di Roma)ATAC is the public transportation company of Rome, Italy. ATAC operates the city's metro, buses, trams, and regional railways.
• In Rome you can travel by bus, tram and metro directly with your credit, debit or prepaid card with Tap & Go. Your ticket is already in your pocket!
9. Catching a taxi in Italy is nearly impossible. Here's why
10. About Taxi in Italy - What you Should Know - Tips from a friend!
11. Scovazzo.it

Exploring the Vatican City: Tips for Planning and Enjoying Your Visit

Sistine Chapel , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Vatican City ⭐⭐⭐is a city-state located within Rome, Italy. It is the smallest country in the world by both area and population. Vatican City is the headquarters of the Catholic Church and home to the Pope.

Vatican City - Complete Travel Guide (YouTube link)

Things to Do

Here are some of the things you can do in Vatican City:

• Visit St. Peter's Basilica
• St. Peter's Basilica is one of the largest and most important churches in the world. It is home to many important works of art, including Michelangelo's Pietà.
• See the Sistine Chapel
• The Sistine Chapel is a chapel located within the Apostolic Palace, the official residence of the Pope. 
• It is famous for its ceiling frescoes painted by Michelangelo and its wall frescoes painted by Sandro Botticelli and other Renaissance artists.
• Visit the Vatican Museums
• The Vatican Museums are a group of museums located within Vatican City. They house a vast collection of art and artifacts, including works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci.
• Take a walk through the Vatican Gardens
• The Vatican Gardens, only accessible via guided tour, offer a beautiful and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome.
• Attend a papal audience
• Papal audiences are held every Wednesday morning in St. Peter's Square. Tickets are required and can be obtained online or at the Vatican ticket office.

In addition to these activities, there are many other things to see and do in Vatican City. You can visit the Vatican Necropolis, the Vatican Library, and the Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of the Pope. You can also enjoy a traditional Italian meal at one of the many restaurants in Vatican City.

No matter what you choose to do, you are sure to have a memorable time in Vatican City. It is a truly unique and special place.

Vatican Museums Entrances: Via Della Conciliazione and Via Vaticano

How to Access

• Free access: St. Peter's Square, Basilica, and papal audiences (tickets required)
• Paid admission: Vatican Gardens, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Museums
• Other places: Only for business

Many paid tours can be booked online here, including guided tours of the Vatican Gardens and Sistine Chapel for small groups, as there is no general public access to the gardens.

Guided Tours of the Vatican Gardens and Sistine Chapel

Information:

• There is a dedicated line for visitors with bookings.
• Meeting point: 
• On the day of your visit, go to the entrance of the Vatican Museums in Via Vaticano.
• Show your booking voucher (electronic format is accepted) to the security staff at the entrance 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
• After security clearance, climb the stairs on the far left of the entrance hall and proceed to the Guided Tours Desk to collect your tickets and meet your guide.

Things to Keep in Mind

Here are some additional tips for planning your visit to Vatican City:

• Buy your tickets in advance
• Many of the attractions in Vatican City are very popular, and it is advisable to buy your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
• Wear comfortable shoes
• You will be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Dress appropriately
• Vatican City is a religious site, so it is important to dress appropriately. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
• Be respectful
• Vatican City is a holy place for Catholics, so be respectful of the people and the environment.
• Take photos and videos, but be mindful of your surroundings
• Photography and videography are generally allowed in Vatican City, but there are a few restrictions. For example, you are not allowed to use flash photography in St. Peter's Basilica or the Sistine Chapel. You are also not allowed to take photos or videos of religious ceremonies or of people without their permission.
• Personal items:
• Bring a small bag with you on your tour.
• Bags, backpacks, or luggage larger than 40 x 35 x 15 cm must be checked at the cloakroom.

Please confirm the final rules on the official website.

References

1. The entrance to the Vatican Museums
2. Official Tickets
3. A guide for getting around Rome using public transportation

Italy Travel: Discover the Enchanted Beauty of Lake Como

Lake Como seen by Yann Arthus-Bertrand (YouTube link)

Lake Como⭐⭐⭐ is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Italy. It is known for its stunning scenery, charming villages, and luxurious villas.

 

Lake Como: A Jewel of Northern Italy

Lake Como is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist destinations in Italy. The lake is located in northern Italy, about an hour's drive from Milan. It is surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests, and its waters are crystal clear.

The best months to visit Lake Como are mid-April-May and mid-September to mid-October.^[13] That's when everything is open, the weather is mild, and it's not too busy.

View an interactive version of Google MyMaps here

6 Charming Lakeside Villages

Lake Como is a great place to visit for a relaxing vacation or a romantic getaway. Among the many noted lakeside resorts are:

• Como
• Commo is famous for its beautiful lake, its elegant villas, and its steep cobbled streets. It is also known for its silk production, which has been going on for centuries. 
• Lecco
• Lecco is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. The city has a long history dating back to the Roman era.
• Bellagio
• The most visited town in Lake Como, Italy is Bellagio. It is known as the "Pearl of Lake Como" for its beautiful location on the promontory that divides the two southern branches of the lake.
• Tremezzo
• Tremezzo is home to the Villa Carlotta botanical gardens, which are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world.  Tremezzo is also a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons. The town's beautiful scenery and its elegant villas make it a perfect setting for a special occasion.
• Menaggio
• Menaggio is famous for its beautiful location on Lake Como, its charming old town center, and its proximity to the Swiss Alps. It is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and water sports. 
• Varenna
• Varenna is home to the Villa Monastero botanical gardens, which were created in the 18th century and are home to a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world.  Varenna is also famous for its beautiful location on Lake Como, its charming old town center. It is also a popular destination for hiking and boat rides. 

As recommended by [13], it is best to focus on just 1-3 places per day and explore them in depth. This will allow you to really appreciate the sights and sounds of each place, and you will not feel rushed.

Top 10 Places to Visit on Lake Como (YouTube link)

0:00 10. Villa Olmo & Como 

3:36 9. Villa Carlotta 

4:37 8. Tremezzo 

6:00 7. Lenno 

8:32 6. Menaggio 

11:10 5. Villa Monastero 

12:36 4. Villa Melzi 

14:26 3. Varenna 

16:28 2. Villa del Balbianello 

20:12 1. Bellagio

5 Spectacular Gardens

With the craggy Alps for a backdrop, a unique microclimate where topical plants thrive, and a long history of lavish summer estates, Lake Como is surrounded by some of Italy’s most beautiful gardens.^[6] 

Lush foliage and brilliant flowers frame views across the lake to peaks that stay snow-capped well into summer. The shore rises steeply, so gardens cascade above the water, and descend in terraces decorated by statues and fountains.

Here are the 5 spectacular gardens: 

• Villa Carlotta ()
• The villa is located at the top of a terraced garden, from which there are views of Bellagio and also the mountains surrounding the lake. It consists of three floors (two of which are open to the public). The works of art on display are mainly located on the lower floor, while the upper one, which has an elegant gallery, provides views over the lake.
• Villa Balbianello ()
• A number of feature films have used the villa for location shooting, including A Month by the Lake (1995), His Demise (2016), Casino Royale (2006).
• In the center of Lenno, you can find the Chiesa Santo Stefano, a beautiful church with an impressive underground crypt. Be sure to check it out when you're in town!
• Villa Serbelloni
• The Parco di Villa Serbelloni is a stunning 50-acre natural park that covers almost the entire promontory of Bellagio. From the park, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Bellagio and discover the fascinating history of this almost magical place.
• Guided Tour of Park Villa Serbelloni (EUR10,00)
• Villa Melzi d’Eril
• The gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril were designed in 1808 in an open and uncluttered style, with only occasional statues to decorate the landscape. Hidden among the trees are a Japanese garden and a water garden. A Moorish-style pavilion overlooks the lake, surrounded by cypresses, Michoacan pine trees (Pinus devoniana), and dwarf palms (Chamaerops humilis).
• Villa Monastero ()
• Villa Monastero is famous for its beautiful botanical garden, which is home to over 800 different species of plants from all over the world. 
• The garden is divided into different sections, each with its own unique theme. There is a rose garden, a Japanese garden, an alpine garden, and a Mediterranean garden. There is also a section of the garden dedicated to medicinal plants.
• The villa itself is also worth seeing. It is a beautiful example of Italian architecture, with a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements. The villa was built in the 12th century, and it has been owned by a number of different families over the years.
• Today, Villa Monastero is a public park and museum. It is open to the public from April to October. 

To avoid the crowds in the most popular towns in Lake Como, the best times to visit are early in the morning (before 10am) or later in the afternoon (after 3-4pm). The afternoon is generally better, as the crowds will have thinned out by then.  Attractions labeled withare recommended to be booked in advance.

Source: Bellagio Lake Como

Getting There

The easiest way to get to Lake Como is by train from Milan. The ride is only 40 minutes from Milano Centrale station to Como San Giovanni station, right in the center of the town of Como.

Ferry service timetable downloaded from Navigazione Laghi for weekdays (06/05/2023 - 11/05/2023)

Type of Ferry rides offered by Navigazione Laghi

Ferry Services

To avoid long queues, you can buy ferry tickets online or during off-peak hours:^[13]

This is especially the case in places like Bellagio or Varenna, but also Como town. So if you don't want to waste lots of precious time queuing, try to get your ferry tickets in advance.

There are several ferry service companies in Lake Como:

• Navigazione Laghi
• This is the largest ferry company in Lake Como, and it offers a wide range of services, including regular ferries, hydrofoils, and private charters.
• Ferry Timetable download links (valid until Nov 2023):
• Weekdays
• Weekend
• In the event of a strike, the scheduled strike, in any case, will respect the agreed time slots which for Navigazione Lago di Como are from 6.00 to 9.00 and from 17.55 to 20.55, guaranteeing essential services in these slots.
• Passenger vs Vehicle 
• Ferries that allow the transport of vehicles only operate between the towns of Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Cadenabbia. 
• In the Navigazione Laghi search form, these piers are characterized by the word "Traghetto" (e.g., Bellagio "Traghetto").
• Others
• Lake Como Water Taxi

References

1. Best Towns of Lake Como (Google My Maps)
2. Lake Como best towns to visit (good)
3. Lake Cuomo tours
4. EBike self guided tour from Menaggio (TripAdvisor.com)
5. Lake Como Tourism
• This website offers updated contents and news to share, also by comments and reviews. Visitors can find all the useful information for a perfect holiday on Lake Como: sites of interest and itineraries, events and information about hospitality, transports, restaurants and shops.
6. 5 spectacular gardens on Italy's Lake Como
7. Navigation on Maggiore, Garda and Como lakes (Ferry service)
8. ASF Autolinee (Bus Service; network pdf download; timetable download) 
• Where to buy the ticket
9. C 12 Menaggio - Porlezza - Lugano (Bus Service; pdf download)
10. Italy public holidays 2023
11. Italy Travel—Italy’s Train System
12. Trenitalia app (Google Play / Apple Store)
13. Traveling to Lake Como for the first time (tips & info for your visit)
14. visitcomo.eu
15. Menaggio Water Taxi
16. Menaggio 14 days weather
17. Lake Villas for weddings in Italy
• Villa Erba, Lake Como
• Villa Sola Cabiati, Lake Como
• Villa Il Balbiano, Lake Como
• Villa Pizzo, Lake Como
• Villa del Balbianello, Lake Como
• Villa d'Este, Lake Como
• Mandarin Oriental, Lake Como
• Villa Giuseppina, Lake Como
• Villa Pliniana, Lake Como
• Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como
• Villa Regina Teodolinda, Lake Como
• Villa Crespi, Lake Orta
• Isola del Garda, Lake Garda
• Villa del Sogno, Lake Garda
• Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees, Lake Maggiore

Jiufen Teahouse: A Unique Teahouse with a Focus on Craftsmanship

陶工坊Entrance

Jiufen Teahouse ⭐⭐is one of many teahouses in Jiufen, but it stands out for its unique interior design and detached storage room where a craftsman works.  The front entrance of Jiufen Teahouse is simple and understated, but don't let that fool you. Inside, you'll find a unique and inviting teahouse experience.

For an overview of Jiufen Old Street, please see the companion article:

Jiufen Old Street: A Must-Visit for Foodies and Photographers

 

Pottery craftsmanship

Pottery craftsmanship is the art and skill of creating pottery by hand. It involves a variety of techniques, including hand-building, wheel throwing, and glazing. Potters use their hands and tools to create vessels that are both functional and beautiful.

Through conversation with the craftsman at 陶工坊, I learned more about the craftsmanship of pottery. It can be crafted by electricity, gas, or firewood, and the final product varies greatly depending on the burning process.

Pottery fired by firewood produces the most detailed and beautiful pieces, but it is also the most time-consuming and requires a highly regulated furnace that is rare in Taiwan today.

Photo Gallery

On a sunny day in May 2023, I visited Jiufen Tea House in Jiufen Old Street, Taiwan. I had originally planned to visit A-MEI Tea House, but I stumbled upon this unique teahouse while exploring the street.

I first visited the detached storage room, which displayed a variety of pottery. Then, I walked upstairs to the two-story shop area, which had additional craft displays on the lower level and a tea-serving area on the upper level.

Here are photos capturing the beauty of that visit.

Unassuming front entrance of Jiufen Teahouse九份茶坊

陶工坊

Potteries fired by firewood