I’ve been in a weird mood since returning from Milan the other week.
I’m crashing from the Salone del Mobile high, Prince is dead, and I have a cold. I rarely get sick but when I do it seems as if my colds have a need to make up for lost time or something.
When I went to the Salone two years ago this didn’t happen. Something has changed in Rome and it’s not for the better. I’m not the only one who feels this way. These articles, yesterday’s New York Times and a piece my friend Michelle wrote for US and News Report in February, sum things up pretty well.
Maybe I have cabin fever. Hopefully, tomorrow I will feel better and can leave my house!
I have been to the Salone three times. The first time I stayed in a hotel near the Convention Center. The second time I rented an apartment in the city near the canals. Third time’s a charm.
Hotel prices are insane during the Salone (if you can find one). The Salone is larger than Fashion week and seventy percent of the people attending are visiting from other countries. The entire city takes part. If you’re planning to attend, make reservations early. Many companies and vendors have blocked out rooms years in advance.
I returned to the Principe after my great experience there in September. I still don’t understand how the hotel was filled to capacity, yet I rarely saw any other guests on my floor. So quiet. The service at this hotel is impeccable despite its size. Plus, they have American bacon during breakfast.
Renting an apartment while traveling on vacation is an excellent option but I’ve learned my lesson. When I’m working, a hotel is a better choice for me. Much better.
I was running around Milan like a chicken with my head cut off and it was wonderful to return to a clean room, to have concierge service, a gym, a convenient place to have meetings, etc. Of course the cost was higher than the apartment I rented two years ago but my trip was more productive.
And what a great trip…four intense days of meetings and visiting showrooms. I wish I had more time.
I posted a few photos on Instagram and below are additional pictures from some of the highlights. I can’t upload all the highlights as I forgot to take photos at the Ethimo party, and quite a few showrooms.
