One thing Lugano might be missing is an English/Irish style pub. Swing over the border to Varese and there is the Scotsman with a few nice beers on tap

Shopping - as you're so close to the border, it's only right to go over and shop there for many things. Some things, for example many electrical goods are cheaper this side, mind you.

For bigger things, the stores in Italy are well set up for tax-free shopping.

If you like queuing then Grancia will be your thing. Also Fox Town on a Sunday is heaving.

Lifestyle is nice this side of the Alps and if you're looking for a foothold in the English-speaking community, there is a nice little church near the station called St Edwards where many foreigners get to meet each other.

This was a special report from Lobbus Rockus looking down from San Salvatore, over and out