Off to Venice

The trip to Venice was uneventful, a pleasant couple of train rides (the only way to travel - whatever you do, don't fly from city to city). From Florence to Venice we shared a four seater spot on the train with a delightful couple from New Jersey, Sharon and Allen Doyno. They had been married over 40 years, so their stories were rich. Compared to us (and probably most people) they were traveling 'heavy' - 5 suitcases and a backpack. We didn't see them after the vaporetto stand (water buses) so hope they made it with all the gear.

We decided after 9 days of sometimes grueling walking, hefting luggage, waiting in airports that our time in Venice would be spent meandering the streets with not much purpose and that's exactly how we spent the day today. We actually slept in until 7:00 a.m. which is late for two girls who usually get up around 4:00 a.m. Rick Steves said that the best way to experience Venice is to just "get lost" by wandering through the various streets and alleys. I'm sure he wasn't being literal but we certainly have gotten lost, not once but twice. Fortunately, after asking many of the locals for directions we were able to find our way.

(By the way, when we say "streets" in reference to Venice, sometimes they are only about 36 inches wide - hardly ADA compliant.)

If you are into high priced fashion or just plain weird fashion, this is the place to shop. Valentino, Prada, Gucci, etc. and then there are others we don't recognize. We've seen some of the strangest shoes - Micki, I'm sure you would have to buy another suitcase for all of your purchases. And of course, the glass. Every other store sells Murano, masks and lace. I'm sure if you wanted it, you could have a custom toliet made from Murano with no problem.

We're at the end of a little siesta and then headed out for dinner and more meandering. The stores close up in the middle of the day and re-open at around 4:30 p.m. Until later....

Ciao!