The bewitching city of Venice
has always considered itself to be married to the sea. Venice was founded originally by
refugees from the mainland seeking a safe haven from the Huns, then later from
the Franks between the 5th and 8th centuries. Because of its strategic location at
the head of the Adriatic Sea, Venice quickly became a transit port for trade
between central Europe and everywhere in the Mediterranean, but especially the
Holy Land.
Today Venice spans 118
islands, with a well-planned web of 150 canals and 400 bridges.
We rose out of bed very early this morning because we wanted
to watch the ship enter the port of Venice. The Captain began playing Botccelli and most of the
passengers were out on the starboard decks. We had the most amazing view of Venice – 16 decks above the
canal under clear blue skies!
We went ashore – we have today in port and an overnight stay
on the ship and disembark tomorrow.
It was a very hot day, we took off to explore on foot. Found the hotel where we’ll be staying
tomorrow night – it has a canal view!
Loved walking around the small, narrow streets and
canals. No traffic noises! Lots of people, especially in the
Piazza San Marco and Doge’s Palace.
The queues to enter were just way too long. Perhaps tomorrow we will have an opportunity if we can
get to the palace before the crowds.
We enjoyed a fabulous lunch at of all places, an Irish
pub! The boys enjoyed a local beer
(Harp) and the girls tried a ‘Prosecco’ – an Italian dry sparkling. Mi piace Prosecco! (I like
Prosecco!) At least the pub was
air-conditioned! Returned to the
ship mid-afternoon to pack and be organised for tomorrow, suitcases had to be
outside our cabin by 8pm.
We plan to explore more of Venice, tomorrow!
No comments:
Post a Comment