Venice

Venice is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs in one go.

Truman Capote, American author (1924-1984)

We have arrived to indulge in our final Italian gem. It is beautiful whether looking south

or north.

The birds-eye views of the Grand Canal from the sixteenth century warehouse/embassy of the German traders are outstanding. For me, being inside the arcaded building that I have studied in books is also an extraordinary experience.

We watched as gondole builders worked to repair one of the city's 500 picturesque boats.

For a view over Piazza San Marco, we took the vaporetto over to San Giorgio Maggiore church which has a similar campanile. This little island was a blissful retreat away from the hoards of tourists in San Marco.

After a quick elevator ride to the top, we had outstanding views over the whole lagoon.

Our elegant/shabby chic hotel is located beside the fish market and our room has a view to the Grand Canal. The building dates to 1288 and it has been a hotel since 1955. There are Murano chandeliers, heavy furniture and multiple carpets throughout.