I have a love / hate relationship with Venice. First of all, do I recommend that you see Venice at least once in your life? Absolutely! In fact, I have been to Venice many times over the years and hope to again soon.
I remember stepping out of the train station in Venice over 20 years ago. The surreal feelings and experience I had seeing the canals and architecture for the first time will stay with me forever. It is magical and wonderful! Does it smell? In some places yes, just like any other city but for the most part it is just fine.
Why do I hate Venice? I really don’t but if you’re not careful, it can be a bit like Disneyland. The crowds of tourists flocking around San Marco’s and the Rialto Bridge are annoying as well as the high prices for low quality food and drinks. Gondola rides that cost € 80 for 30 minutes feel a bit crazy. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t see these attractions and take a ride, but Venice has so much more to offer if you do you homework, take your time, relax, and just wander. I used to enjoy getting lost so maybe even turn off your phone GPS and give it a try. Hint… Check out the Jewish Ghetto, Murano And Burano.
We have stayed in Venice a few times but for our last trip we rented a condo for a month near the shopping district in Mestre across the bridge on the mainland. It was just a quick 15 minute bus ride whenever we wanted to visit Venice and then back home to great relaxing food and drink for half the price.
This was the biggest pepper grinder I have ever seen. I think they have a lot of fun with it.
