crystal's capers

one girl's international adventures

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Venezia

Venice is breathtaking. Beyond words. Within the first half-hour of being there I was in tears because I was so overwhelmed. It really was a dream-come-true.

We went to Venice on Thursday, so it wasn't yet crammed with Easter visitors; it was still busy, however. There are tons of shops, most of which feature Carnivale masks - beautiful! Of course we had to get some masks, which did make it home in one piece, thankfully. The city was remarkably clean, particularly surprising considering the warnings I'd received to the contrary. There are no vehicles allowed in Venice, so it was entirely boats and pedestrians and everything was very accessible. We crossed at least 28 bridges!

We stumbled upon an international second-hand bookstore, which was lucky because Riccardo has been hurting for some German-language reads lately. From the friendly shop owner we also learned about a fantastic, less-touristy pizzaria where we ate a delicious lunch.

Did we ride a gondola? YES!!! It was just 60 Euros for half-an-hour, but well worth it. We got to see the backside of the city, and to enjoy a truly memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience. To Riccardo's relief, we were not serenaded.

In the afternoon our journey finally led us to San Marco Square and the oceanside boardwalk. The Adriatic Sea was calm, but didn't look overly clean. Until the air misted up, the view of the island opposite Venice was gorgeous. We enjoyed (9 euro) cappucinos along the ocean and laughed at the African purse vendors who kept having to pack up shop and run whenever they spotted the polizia! Speaking of that, did you know that both the police and the ambulance travel by boat in Venice? Weird!

1 Comments:

    • At 6:44 PM, Blogger Tressa said…

      Venice looks amazing, I would have cried too I'm sure;) I am so glad you got to see all these things and had fantastic tour guides!

       
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