Ahhhh Venice

Departure from Milan on the train and arrival in beautiful Venice all went smoothly.  We were not sure about how to get to the hotel... water taxi had been mentioned, but it turns out, there are actually water busses that are easier to access with luggage, so off we went.  As we proceeded, John was already craning with   his camera, as there were so many lovely vistas, just like in all the   pictures you have ever seen of Venice.  We got off at San Marco (Saint Mark’s Square) and then began to search for the Best Western Monte Carlo.  Finding it on our own was not possible, as Venice is a labyrinth of narrow streets that twist and turn between the canals.  Beautiful, yes. Negotiable, only with great difficulty.  A man offered to take us for two Euro, which was worth every penny.  We were pleasantly surprised by our Rococo style accommodations, and a full breakfast is included.

                                                                Milan train station

                                                            Local "bus"

                                                        Gail in San Marco square

                                                        Gondolas parked in waiting

                                                     Flat Stanleys relaxing in the hotel room

The hotel was offering a free trip to the island of Murano, famous for its glass making, so off we went in the morning, through the canals on a water taxi.  The factory was fascinating, as the process has not changed since it began, and we were able to watch a master form a glass horse as we watched.  Of course, this was followed by a tour of the showrooms of elaborate glass of various styles, all available to be purchased, and of course they will ship anywhere in the world.  It was all beautiful, but we were able to say “No Thanks!” 

The glass is red hot as it is formed

The rest of the day was spent wandering through this incredible city that feels like you have stepped back in time.  The Bysantine influence is evident in many of the buildings, and the fact that there are no cars makes it other worldly.  We thought we had seen narrow streets until we came here.  In front of the hotel, two people can barely pass each other. 

                                                John in the "street" outside the hotel Monte Carlo

                                                       Gail on the Rialto Bridge

Looking the other way from the bridge

"Cheers" once again

In the pictures, we are wearing our Tilley hats with wide brims.  This is partly because it was a bright sunny day, but the other practical reason to wear a hat here is to deflect the pigeon droppings, as the lively little creatures are everywhere.