Venice 2

Another day, another gondolier photo!

The day started slowly, time for a quick catch up. Emails, blogs, homework. Which was good, as it was raining fairly steadily …

Lunch, then 1.30 we headed out the door with the simple goal of familiarizing ourselves with the streets of Venice, the boat system and the general surrounds. So walk we did, the goal being to reach St Marks Square. Well, after 30 minutes we literally arrived back were we started, a complete circle, in what is a maze of streets and canals! Very disorienting. But amazing, as the streets were quiet and interesting.

Back on the main thoroughfare down the main boulevard. However, so busy, so many people. So back into the side streets, interesting because while being small there are so many shops. Low end, high end, just amazing.

Finally we popped out in St Marks and back into the crowds. Being a famil day we decided the best activity was a trip up the clock tower, however to the disappointment of the kids, up an elevator, not stairs! But frankly, for 36 euro, I think I want an elevator … We also did the audio guide which was OK, and certainly that combined with the view you got a “birds eye” view of Venice literally. It's not big, but there’s clearly a lot to it.

Back down and then a leisurely continuation of our walk, to the start of the grand canal. Looked at gondolier rides, 80 euro for 30 or 40 minutes, maybe. Also found the gondolier ferry, which I think is 2 euro, more likely! But being 6pm by now, we decided time to head home, so onto the number 1 line bus boat, and back to base camp. With a stop actually at a waterfront pizzeria or pizza and wine for dinner. All very pleasant.

Home finally, but being a lovely evening, I headed back out by myself with my camera. St Marks again, flooding with the high tide and then some exploration of the back streets, getting thoroughly lost in the process! Now; I have a very good sense of direction, but as the islands curve and no streets are linear with twists and curves, your sense of direction is thrown completely off. Without my phone and google maps I think I’d be still searching for our apartment!

So yes, Venice is struggling with rising water and high tides, it’s quite a problem. It’s getting worse and then are many reasons. Some are due to rising sea levels in the last 1200 years or so, others are due to the city sinking slightly. Without question, this is a highly modified environment, and the Venetians are clearly fighting it. I’d have to say, I get the feeling nature will win … Also interesting, I’ve been wondering where the water comes from, and the sewerage goes to, as you do, Water is from the mainland, but the sewerage? Well, much of it into the canals, watch the video if you’re interested and have time ... no swimming for me then!