Time to learn Italian
After a few days in Germany, we are visiting Italy beginning with Venice. Every time I think about it, I picture James Bond! I can see him in a speed boat flying through the canal and jumping a bridge. I’m sure that was in a movie at one time!
In order to get to Venice, we fly. We had about a hour and half layover in Munich which was perfect; enough time to grab a bite to eat and stretch our legs before moving onto our final destination. Once we were at the gate, and boarding for our 11:50 flight, they flag our boarding passes. We are called to the side and we’re told that we do not have a seat on this flight. They are so sorry, the airline had employees added to the flight. They have priority and were given our seats. Oh, they were kind enough to offer us 200 Euros each along with tickets for the next flight leaving at 6:20pm. That did not help! We only had 2 nights to spend in Venice and planned for a food tour that started at 5:30pm. We waited nervously as the poor fella at the gate worked to find us a seat. You kinda feel bad with your fingers crossed someone misses the flight, well maybe not misses it but had a change of plans. Once again, the Lord was looking out for us. We actually sat behind the crew that bumped us.
Now back on schedule, we arrive to our hotel by way of water taxi. I am in awe of this city made of islands. There are no cars nor bicycles allowed. Too many bridges to count and each time you cross one you are on another island.
Our food tour was so much fun. The young man that guided us took us to 5 osterias, simple restaurants serving wine and usually a limited, handwritten menu. Rico shared a lot of information about the island. We met 2 couples: one from Colorado and one from Indiana. I have to admit it was nice being able to converse in English. Most of Patricia’s family and friends speak English, but it was difficult moving about the city without them. We ended our evening with Gelato. I am not a big sweet person, but it was malto bene or very good!
Tuesday started with Roko, our guide for St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace. I cannot tell you how beautiful it is. I was torn between trying to take pictures to have to remember it all and just looking around to take it all in. The tour lasted about 2 1/2 hours and I feel like we could have spent at least another hour there and still missed stuff.
The afternoon was spent walking on our own, shopping and eating. Chris says we walked about 16,000 steps! (More than a JR Beta field trip, if you know, you know!) And again we could have used another day. Dinner was amazing. We took our time and enjoyed sitting outside. Gavin says it’s the Italian way. We discussed this part of our trip and were in agreement that St Mark’s Basilica was the favorite.
A good night’s sleep and on to Rome!
