Thursday, June 26, 2014

Getting Lost in the Passageways of Venice, Italy

Getting Lost in the Passageways of Venice
My Adventures & Suggestions
May 2014
Venice, Italy is one of those "must-visit" destinations in the world, and for good reason too! This island has no cars or streets, simply boats, rivers, and small passageways to get around.

Looking for a place to stay? If you're down to stay a small distance outside of the city with a shuttle bus to take you there and back, why not stay at the PLUS Jolly campsite? You can stay in a house-tent with a bunk bed and another twin bed, or your own camping device, or a nice bungalow for anywhere from 7-15 euros a night. There is a pool, restaurant, laundry room, free Wifi, and a mini store! Although not in the most convenient location to go out on the town, it is a cheap place to stay just outside of Venice in a great atmosphere!

What to Do in Venice?

1. Get Lost & Explore of course!
This city has so much to offer outside of the typical tourist areas, wonder around and enjoy the scenery & atmosphere of this beautiful place!

The sights you will see are absolutely breathtaking from the rivers, to the colorful buildings, to the restaurants, to everything in between! The only way you'll ever come to a dead end is when you hit a river so keep going!


The passageways are all very different and exciting to see...


2. Pick up some fish for dinner! 
Have a place to grill out? Why not pick up some fresh fish from the markets all throughout the town! If you don't have a place to grill, at least admire the fish markets... they're very different than any you will find in the USA!


3. OK, now that you've explored, you can hit up the main tourist square!
From the clock tower, to the beautiful church, to the shops, to the restaurants, this square is sure to impress! Hop on one of the many Gondolas from here or wait in line to see the inside of the church! Many different historic things hidden throughout this square!


Make sure to admire the beautiful architecture while you're there!


4. Hop on a Gondola for a short ride!
Yes, I know it's expensive, but just do it! You won't be disappointed! You can see the city from an entirely different view that you wouldn't get otherwise! Some gondoliers will tell you a bit of information about the city- but don't expect it! They are solely there to propel your gondola through the rivers! 
Tip: Gondolas can have up to 6 people in a boat, if you have less than this stand by the takeoff points and ask if anyone is looking for extras to split the cost! Many people will already have the amount they want, but you will most likely find someone else who wants to hop in & split the cost... plus you might even get them to take a lovely photo of you and your friends if you're lucky! (make sure to return the favor)


5. Check out the Bridge of Sighs!
Although there is a sad history of convicts seeing the city for the last time while passing over this bridge, it has a more positive significance today! It is said that if lovers kiss while passing under this bridge at sunset on a gondola while the bells of St. Mark's Campanile ring, they will be granted eternal love and bliss. The legend became the plot line for the movie A little Romance. 


Make sure you enjoy the amazing Italian Pasta & Pizza while there!
There is no place else in the world with such good Pizza & Pasta... don't miss out on the opportunity to try it fresh from the best!

PS: Don't forget the Lemoncella! It's the best lemon flavored liquor you will ever find and most likely for only about 6 euros a bottle in the grocery stores (touristic areas sell them from 10-20 euros).

Enjoy Everything you do in this city & take pictures!
As Always,
Lexi

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