Venice 2004

Venice
In August of 2004 we took a 10 day trip through Italy and Switzerland. We drove from Germany to Venice in our car. The drive was gorgous! We drove through the mountains of Switzerand with the most scenic views. When we arrived in Venice we parked our car for 3 days because transportation in Venice is only through the canals. We took a ferry to our hotel near St. Mark's Basilica. Then we went out to eat in the most adorable outdoor restaurant that was hidden in a maze of alleys and canals.
The next morning we arose bright and early and took a Rick Steves' canal tour, visited Murano Island and went glass shopping, and toured the Basilica. We also took a nice afternoon nap (because that is what they do in Italy!). In the evening we bought a cheap bottle of wine, brought 2 plastic cups, and bargined on the back alleys for a discount Gondola ride!! It was so fun!! Our driver was so nice (singing was extra so we nixed that)! He gave us a tour as he paddled through the small canals out to the Grand Canal. What an awesome experience!! We also at gelato (Italian ice cream) 3 times a day! It was sooo good!
The next day it was off to Rome to meet up with some friends!