Italy 2014 - Venice

Note:  Though this might or might not be of interest to others, I'm documenting this trip because I want to remember it and remembering gets harder as the years go by.   Clicking the title line to view a slideshow or the pictures for a larger version of the photos.

Part I - Venice

We had a great time but it should be noted that you don't go for the food.  Eva now thinks that the Olive Garden is pretty good in comparison.  And getting there (and back) is not half the fun.  The fun is the experience of being there.

Lots of walking involved in the trip and, in Venice, a stepped bridge is around every corner.

San Marco Piazza & Basilica:

The San Marco Piazza is probably the most recognizable site in Venice and is pretty grand.  On the other hand, The Cathedral is also pretty crowded even in late September when the number of tourists supposedly declines.

So is it a Basilica or a Cathedral and what's the difference?

Doge's Palace:

The tour of the Doge's Palace was really interesting and informative but as usual I've forgotten most of the history presented.  I do seem to recall that the Doge form of government with representatives for the different parts of Italy worked well until those holding power turned the system into an oligarchy.  When a Doge tried to revert the system back to the original, democratic form, he was killed.  Very interesting.

Rialto Bridge:

The bridge crosses the Grand Canal and was really crowded - when looking at the view you can see why.  Oh, and the shopping.

Accademia Bridge:


Lost several times and ending up at this bridge you would think I would have taken at least one picture but no, I guess not.  So why not another picture of the Rialto?




Oh, found the picture.  If you squint you can see the bridge in the background,  Also crowded.  Not as much shopping but this bridge and the Rialto are the only two that cross the Grand Canal.






Ca D'Oro (Golden House):

Took our tour guide Jennifer's suggestion and visited this grand old house.  Huge!  Can't imagine anyone living there.  Eva and I could go a month without bumping into each other.  And how do you heat the place?  Oh well, it was interesting and fun to visit.

City Canals Via Gondola:

Possibly the highlight of the tour.  Eva had been nervous of this event ever since committing to the tour.  She was concerned that she wouldn't have the courage to board one of those tipsy little boats.  She did and loved it as did I.

Harry's Bar:

Yes, as the photo indicates, a rather nondescript bar.  And they don't allow pictures when inside "to respect the privacy of the patrons".  (Restriction might also be to keep the bland interior and small but expensive drinks from getting too much exposure.)


Dining:

Yes, I did say that the food was not the high point of the trip but the dining atmosphere is something to be remembered.

Disappointed:

Had to give our regrets to Mr. & Mrs. George C. since we wouldn't be able to attend the ceremony - Florence awaits.