Monday, September 8

venezia








Stop No. 3: Venice

Venice was as picturesque and awe-inspiring as its said to be, but we didn't enjoy it quite as much as I hoped we would. It wasn't Venice's fault per say. Things like torrential downpours and hours-long train delays can ruin what could otherwise be a special experience. Plus, I'm worried about Venice. Its population decreases substantially on an annual basis, which means tourists are becoming the city's residents. Which also means that Venice's culture is being lost.

We only stayed for one night which was about all I could handle; it was so crowded. And rainy. But it's hard to take a bad photo or have an un-romantic time in a place as colorful and unique as this---even when the sky is ultra gloomy. Of course, the morning we left, the sun was shining brightly. But we had a train to catch....

We stayed here and really liked it, but you should request a room with air conditioning. And don't expect much for breakfast.

.

12 comments:

Ann Marie said...

Alas! I am always sad to see a place taken over by tourists. How can it be regulated? I hope someone finds a way.

Sorry about all the rain...if you had some wellies it probably would have been a little more bearable.

Glad you take time to take photos...not always easy when travelling.

Whatever Dee-Dee wants said...

I love Venice!
I went during off season so it wasn't crowded at all. 1-2 days is as much time as you need there.

I like your pictures!

Jane and Jane said...

Agree that one night should suffice... unless you spend it with a bottle of wine and a late night goose hunt around the maze-like city. Then of course, you'll need another day. Can't wait to see what your next stop will be. - JA

ali said...

Dee-Dee: You couldn't be more right. Off-season (anywhere in Europe) is definitely the way to go. If it fits in with your grad school schedule. :) I bet it's a whole different place without all those bodies bumping around.

Jane: You are indeed correct.

Courtney said...

I love the photo of the evening pavement glistening with rain! It actually makes the rain look rather romantic.

I'm enjoying taking a European vacation vicariously through you! Thanks :)

Jane Flanagan said...

You're giving me mad wanderlust with these Italy posts!

Lacey Jane said...

Ah... I loved Venice. Your pics take me back... so pretty!

Muranda said...

you are doing a lovely job at taking me back to one of my all-time favorite trips with my hubby! thank you!

Unknown said...

oh ali, these are so pretty. I love that one of the girl with the umbrella.. is that you?

Anonymous said...

It rained when I was in Venice, too, but didn't dampen the magic. I'm SAD to hear the city is, essentially, failing. Better get my butt back over there soon. As always, your photos are stunning.

You Are My Fave said...

Italian downpours can ruin some fun but your pictures still turned out lovely. At least you didn't fall into the canal.

j. said...

I found Venice to be strangely a bit melancholy myself although still very beautiful...and yes, off season is the way to go if your schedule can work around it. Love the photos!