With the crowds in Venice, we decided to take our good friend Kathy’s suggestion and take a quick trip to Murano and Burano. Both are a series of islands linked by bridges in the Venetian Lagoon.
The first island to visit was Murano, which is known for its Murano glass. We made the obligatory visit to a glass blowing factory for a glass blowing demonstration. And, although we are familiar with the process as glass art is very popular in the Northwest, I will say the demonstration was mind blowing. In 15 minutes the blower created a vase and decorative horse.
Following the demonstration we visited their showroom for purchase opportunities. Although we did not buy anything, we were impressed with the quality and quantity. Unfortunately, pictures were not allowed in the showroom.
We then had a little time to explore Murano, not much time, though! As I wandered the area, I came across a street musician who played crystal glasses. I watched in amazement as he played “The Blue Danube.” I almost suggested that he should compete on one of the “Best Talent” shows!
From Murano it was off to the island of Burano with its claim to fame being the colorful houses. The houses were all shades of red, blue, purple, pink, green, yellow, and, they did add a local color. With more time we wandered the streets and had lunch (not that great) at one of the sidewalk cafes.
Then it was back to Venice (lots of boat traffic) to enjoy a drink on our hotel patio watching the gondolas go by, There was something incongruent, however, about watching the gondola operators row by on their cellphones.
Following a fairly quick dinner, we went to a Vivaldi concert. A thousand years ago (okay, maybe not quite that many) when we lived in Los Angeles, Steve decided he wanted to get more familiar with classical music. Knowing that a good friend of mine was very knowledgeable he asked her for classical music that was “good for beginners.” She suggested Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, so, he immediately bought an album (anyone remember albums?). Consequently, Vivaldi has always been a favorite, so, this was a perfect concert choice. The concert was held in the Chiesa della Pieta Church to an appreciative audience. Antonio Vivaldi was born in Venice, and, he lived and worked there most of his life.
And, so, our short stay in Venice ended the following morning with a walk to the water taxi station to go to the train station and on to the next destination.
Great photos and very entertaining posts. Wish we were there to share your experiences and your company.
SS
Thank you! We would have loved to have you with us! Donna
I enjoy reading your commentaries. You ever thought about being a writer? You’ve got a good sense of humor.
Thanks for taking us along your journey.
Thanks! Sometimes a good sense of humor is the saving grace! I long ago accepted that travel can have its challenges, no matter how well planned. Donna
We do love that City, and I think we had fewer crowds two years ago. I was stunned to learn that the downtown floods almost every winter, so summer is definitely the time to visit. The fact that the wood under the City is prehistoric, something like 2000 years old, also blew my mind. How is that possible? I’m so happy I was able to visit. I don’t see how it can possibly last forever.
I think the crowds are getting bigger each year, and, even though they are trying to cut down on the crowds, success in doing so is fleeting. The first (and only other time) we were there was late fall, and, it was flooded! Donna
Hi Donna and Steve,
I really appreciate reading about your travels. Donna your writings are quite entertaining and make me feel like I have experienced this trip with you! I have to admit I haven’t followed everyone for lack of personal time. I barely get to normal emails, however I’m saving yours to go back to when time permits. I’m commenting on this one because I made a painting I called “Burano” so I have a connection to this last photo. I have not had nearly enough travels to Europe. Thank you for sharing your trip. Tell Steve we have had quite a few visitors in the Studio recently and many good comments on his paintings. He hasn’t missed anything other than that! Bring back inspiration! Happy Travels you two.
Thank you! It has been a busy few weeks, but, we are thoroughly enjoying the trip. Steve did get some great inspiration from paintings in the church in Venice where we attended the concert. Surprisingly they were contemporary paintings. See you back in Naples soon. . .I think Steve is ready to get back to painting and “off the rails.” Donna
I LOVE Venice, but a few years ago we started staying on Guidecca Island. Its super close to take a boat to St. Mark’s if you want to do the shopping and walking, but when back on the island it is very peaceful. I will say that is very expensive, a few nights is all we could do!
I am hoping that you are still having great weather!
We loved Venice the first time we were there, but, I can’t say we did this time as it was just too crowded. . .which is unfortunate. We are still lucky as to the weather. We have had almost no rain, and, the temperatures have mostly been in the 70’s during the day. We hope that continues! Donna