Hangzhou Global Tour: Day 18
Since before the time of Christ, Italy has been leading the world with its innovative designs. From architecture, glass, clothing, art, to modern day cars…Italy makes the best-of-the-best. This exceptional and sophisticated Italian design style is clearly evident here in Venice. The patina that casts its ageless shadow over Venice makes it one of the most unique and interesting places in the world.
Disembarking the Costa Deliziosa marked the end of our cruise, but not the end of our aquatic adventures. We took a water taxi to our hotel where we would spend the next few nights. Our accommodations are at the Starthotels Splendid Venice…which I have to say, is pretty darn splendid indeed. Located right on a canal, our hotel is a mere stone’s throw from the famed St. Mark’s Square (aka Piazza San Marco), but tucked away so as not to be in the middle of hordes of people. The accommodations, while typically European in size, are quite stylish and comfortable. The rooftop terrace is also pretty spectacular, offering guests an elevated view of Venice.
After getting settled, we embarked on a walking tour with a local guide and got familiar with the general area. This familiarization tour however did not prevent me from getting lost later in the evening. Venice is a maze of waterways, bridges and alleys that that takes visitors a fair amount of exploration in order to get ones bearing.
Since we now know a few words of Mandarin, such as Nín hǎo (hello), we often greet and engage Chinese people we see…and, it’s funny because we continue to run into people from Hangzhou. As you might expect, the legend of Marco Polo is alive and well here in Venice. We went to a bookstore that bears his name, as well as a restaurant for dinner.
Tomorrow, we have an opportunity to meet the Vice Mayor of Venice, along with a gondola ride, so please stay tuned for my updates. In the meantime, if you missed yesterday’s update, click here. For the next day, click here.
Mike Shubic
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