Lago di Como

The shoulder season in Lago Di Como is something unique. Swimming in the North of Italy in October sounds less than appealing and browsing the countless silk shops is pretty much off limits at this point. However, arguably, it is one of the best times to spend a weekend holiday. My parents flew from the East Coast for just three days with me in Como and we found ourselves parked at the poolside bar outside the Grand Hotel Tremezzo. No, we weren't guests here but, on our third day, we woke up to freezing rain so the most logical thing to do was spend the day at the hotel spa. Everything from the lobby bar to the tennis courts to the martini garnishes felt like it was brushed with gold. Oh and be prepared to rub elbows with the likes of Chiara Ferragni and the Clooney's.

The iconic orange is found throughout the property.