Venice, a surprise around every corner!

I absolutely love the travel. I enjoy the entire process (except unpacking). I enjoy the consideration of “where to go”, the research to prepare to get the “most out of my trip”, the anticipation and I even love to fly. 

Recently, while planning a trip to Europe, my husband suggested Venice. Gotta give him credit; it was a great choice. Venice is definitely a city to visit. In the airport, before our flight had a conversation with a business traveler who asked “where are you going?” He gave a better explanation that any of the travel resources read to that point, “In Venice, there is a surprise around every corner.”

Our stay was headquartered near San Marco’s Square, which was a perfect place to explore the entire city. With no cars or bicycles allowed this exploration was mostly on foot. First a boat ride from the airport then strolling along the lovely avenues of Venice. Where there seemed to be no straight lines and thus many, many corners with a delightful surprise at each turn.

At breakfast, each morning there was a majestic view of the historic Customs House. We were also able to observe the gondola drivers preparing for their day. We heard “Prego” everywhere we turned and felt welcomed to this picturesque city. Schools of artists, like a school of fishes swarmed the city with purpose. It was a delight to watch them record the beauty of the cityscape on their sketch pads.

The colors, architecture, textures were invigorating. I couldn’t take enough pictures to capture all the beauty surrounding me.

A “spritz” along the grand canal- stirred briskly and then devouring the huge olive in Venezia style had to be mastered.

“Gondola! Gondola!” the cry must be answered. Our gondolier, “Carrota” nicknamed for his once fiery red hair was a great source on information and points of local interest.

Hungry?  One must experience a Venezia Pizza. Delicately thin crust with gourmet toppings of artichoke, olive, prosciutto ham… delicious! Each day we would sit in a crowded outdoor café and enjoy this treat.

And, dinner is late. But, well worth the wait. At a friend’s recommendation we visited Ristorante Sempione.

This trattoria has been delighting patrons for generations. The tradition translated wonderfully for us in the 21^st century. Antipasto, 1^st plate; how about homemade pasta and seafood, then veal or lamb chops; choices abundant and each prepared and served with flair. May as well stay for dessert… don’t get in a hurry stay and enjoy the entire pampered dining experience. Save “hurrying” for another time and another place.

The city seems to sleep early but, don’t miss seeing Rialto Bridge at night.