Back in the summer of 2007, while studying abroad in Florence, Italy, I took a weekend trip to Lake Como and Bellagio in the Lombardy region. Known as “The Pearl of the Lake,” Bellagio is located at the most northern point of Lake Como, overlooking the Alps. My main goal was to finally meet George Clooney, as he infamously owns a home on Lake Como. Unfortunately, that did not happen, but the locals filled me in on all the gossip! I had no idea I would make a long-lasting friendship with a local, Michele Gandola, who at the time was working at an Internet café and bar I frequented during the visit. We became pen pals and still to this day email each week. I help him with his English, and he helps me maintain the Italian language. I must admit, having international friendships definitely has its perks, especially when you receive a beautiful bottle of Barolo or Valpolicella directly from its original region in Italy. Since then, Michele has gone on to start his own kayaking and stand-up paddle board business, Bellagio Water Sports. I am so incredibly proud of him for pursing his passion of rowing, kayaking and SUP. Michele has reached a high level of achievement as an athlete and as a coach in rowing. He has competed all throughout Italy and has won many medals, listed on his website. There are a number of tours visitors can take at Bellagio Water Sports, including tours of Pescallo coast, Bellagio, Villa Balbianello and Varenna. The tours along Bellagio’s west and east coast allows you to discover hidden nature spots, beautiful architecture and gardens of the Patrician villas along the promenade of Bellagio. You really get a sense of the village culture and history from a different perspective being on the water. What an amazing way to see this region of Italy, especially if you are looking for an activity to do in this area. Although I did not have a chance to partake in kayak or SUP when I visited, I would recommend it to anyone traveling to Lake Como. Afterward, dine in one of the traditional lake fish restaurants and enjoy local wines on the promenade of Bellagio. The lights of the nearby towns sparkle like gems on the water at night. It’s truly a magical part of Italy’s many treasures! Buon viaggio! — Rafie Iannello, account director, Pacific Rim