Thursday, June 7, 2012

Venice, Day 2

Hey everyone!
Today, I had the most perfect day in Venice. I was definitely on the struggle bus yesterday so I was blinded to the charm of this city. However, today I was able to explore so many neighborhoods and landmarks that were gorgeous. Venice is one of the most unique cities I have ever seen. On another level, their public transportation is on point. It is better organized here than in cities where cars are allowed. Additionally, the Italian men are much better looking here than in Rome or Florence…must be all the American touristsJ
I began the day by touring over to the Island of San Gigorio, which is home to a ghostly church. While the church is very pretty, the island is very quiet. It is a great place is sit down and contemplate life. The church also has a gorgeous bell tower that I walked up and took some great pictures of Venice. I sat on the island for about an hour before returning to San Marco.
A little later, I took the boat to Burano, which is famous for its lace. I had to take two different boats, so it is safe to say that I have mastered public transportation. The route to Burano took around 75 minutes. Burano is really nowhere near Venice and it takes a long time on slow boat, but the route is a very pretty one. Burano itself is such a cute little island. Unlike Venice, it is very obvious that people live here. I saw cars, residences and an adorable little school. The island also countless lace shops and a church with a bell tower that leans. It doesn't lean near as much as the bell tower in Pisa does though so it is not as famous. I grabbed a nice lunch and browsed the shops that were amazing. The lace is all handmade and expensive. All in all, Burano was well worth the trip.
It took me over an hour to get back to Venice, but once I did, it was quite an adventure. I browsed the shops with the idea of eventually ending up back at the Rialto bridge. Well….that didn't happen. For those of you that have been to Venice, it is really hard to navigate. I wasn't using my map and wasn't worried about getting lost so it really didn't matter, but it was interesting. I finally found something I really think my dad will like so that  was successful. I started walking from San Marco and somehow ended up back at the train station, which is a good half mile past the Rialto Bridge. After seeing the train station, I walked the opposite direction and ended up in the Jewish ghetto of Venice. Honestly, I am happy I got so lost because I got to see the charm of the back streets of Venice. However, eventually I had to find a boat stop because I couldn't figure out how to get back to Rialto, but I made it!
Venice has stolen my heart and I hope I can come back here someday. Today was a great last day in Italy, which has been wonderful.
Tomorrow, I will travel to Zermatt, Switzerland, which is home to the Matterhorn. Ciao, Italia!
San Gigorio

San Marco

One side of the tower

Burano

Canal

AL

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