Juncker's Positive EU. From Paris to Desenzano

Lyria - our record holding train to Geneva

Wednesday, 13th September

The EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker gave a bullish speech on the positive developments and recovery of the EU economy, with barely a mention of Brexit, apart from saying that the EU will move on. The Express headlined 'German MEP Outrage' at this speech, only mentioning later that this was by the reviled leader of the far right AfD.

This morning we walked from the Paris Pavillon Bastille Hotel to the Gare de Lyon, and boarded 9:14 train to Geneva. Named 'Lyria', it held a record of 585 kmh on a speed test. For the three hours to Geneva (about 500 km), it's maximum speed was around 189 kmh, whilst rushing through most of the French countryside. It slowed to about 90 to 120 kmh as we traversed the Alps for the final stretch to Geneva.

In Geneva we stretched our legs walking around a park near the station, before boarding the 13:39 train to Milan. We travelled along the edge of Lake Geneva to Lausanne and Montreaux before heading for Brig, climbing along scenic alpine valleys. Immediately after Brig, the route was through a series of tunnels, to maintain an almost straight line to a river and then following the valley for the first stop in Italy,  Domodossola. The southern side of the Alps was much greener and, as we gained speed again along the shore of Lake Maggiore, we admired the two picturesque islands in the lake. We arrived in Milan in rush hour and fortunately had booked seats on the regional express to Venice, which stopped at our final destination, Desenzano del Garda.

As we wandered downhill, tired, and looking forward to a well earned rest, it became apparent that it was a party evening in the town. Not only were the tourists out and about, loud bands were playing at intervals along the front. It was the last 'White Wednesday' of the year.

We had a warm welcome at the Hotel Alessi and were given one of what can only be called a 60's themed room - round bed, salmon and orange decor and an orange cowhide on the floor and a large open bath shower as a main feature (separate from the bathroom). We will be relocated tomorrow. The noise of the partying town is still booming as we settle for bed at 11.45pm.  Will see what tomorrow and daylight brings.