We didnt sleep in too long, as there are only two days in Venice to experience as much as possible. The apartment is working out well due to its location, fittings/furnishings and size. It is actually a ‘real full sized’ 2 bedroom apartment and quite big for Europe. It is also nice and quiet so the two couples are very separate – with the two bathrooms inbetween the rooms. The actual location of the apartment is on the 1st floor and the back of an alley next to the grand canal on one side, and a second major road on the other – so whilst there is the ‘traffic’ noise (which adds to the character) there is zero tourist street noise. Although it was not the cheapest we have booked, it is actually very good value for Venice, its waterfront location and size so I am delighted about that for all the reasons mentioned.
Lili and Hugo also noted at breakfast how lovely the fruit is here, and duely fortified we paused our rapid and lively conversations to head out for a days activities. We asked them what they would like to to – and they were happy to be led by us for the two days so we thought heading out for a quick look at Murano and Burano may be a bit cooler and nice on the 34 degree day to start with. We both were making the most of the washing machine too – and had 3 loads complete since check in!
To go to the islands its best to grab a day pass for the vaporetto (20 euro) and we managed that quickly at the main entry station which is about 15 minutes walk away from home. On route it was a thrill for us to see the wonder on the kids faces as they took in the hustle, bustle, waterways, bridges and Venetian architecture. There was also a good queue for the ‘bus’ which was not fun – already at around 10:30 it was very crowded and busy – and HOT. Cramming like you wouldn’t believe unless you experienced it onto the bus was the next introductions for the new comers. It was a pity as it really limited any views which is half the fun of the trip. The heat also made it quite unpleasant and we tried our best to stay on the top floor in the hope of getting some whisps of air.
First stop was Murano which of course is famous for its Venetian glass blowing. The island is pretty small – basically one Main T shaped Street (the canal) and a few side plaza. We enjoyed window shopping at the artistic pieces and Hugo managed to hunt out a few gifts along the way. Before going to Burano we needed a toilet stop and a fuel stop out of the heat so we had a pizza at a small cafe and a free toilet. Poor Lili is struggling with the whole concept of paying for the toilet over here and how that can mount up, whereas we are used to it and have learnt to pace ourselves a bit better. It is a challenge in the heat though as you drink a lot to keep up your hydration and that sets the change of events going.
The Burano bus was a little less crowded although still full but we got some airflow which was great. It was a yet another treat to see the reaction from Lili and Hugo and the uber cute candy coloured rainbow town. Burano is about 40 minutes on the vaporetto from St. Marks square or 30 from the stop where Lili and Hugo arrived the other day. It is also small, with a population of around 2,800 and is actually an archipelago of four islands linked by bridges. It is situated at the northern end of the Lagoon, and is known for its lace work and brightly coloured homes. The colours of the houses follow a specific system originating from the golden age of its development; if someone wishes to paint their home, one must send a request to the government who will respond by advising of the certain colours permitted for that lot.
Not only are the colours of the houses facinating the residents are very arty and clever in the selection and placement of plants, door curtains and other ornaments outside and on their homes. It was my visit here in 2013 that got me hooked on outside pot plants – in particular geraniums. Visiting here to me is like coming to an art gallery where you stop and examine and appreciate all the details.
After enjoying our wander we headed back home on a crowded bus – but with a good spot with air and view to refresh and cool off before dinner. Despite hopes this excursion took most of the day – due to heat and crowding making things a bit slower. Our late night also made us a bit more vulnerable and it was nice to take a break away from the crowds and sun and refresh. For dinner we went to a restaurant that I enjoyed last time that does a lovely squid ink and crumbed calamari combo. Vern also enjoyed their Carbonara then – and again tonight. Hugo went for a creamy mushroom and prawn pasta and Lili ordered a vegan garlic and chili pasta that she thought had tomato on it – which it did not. She batted her big blue eyes at the waiter who happily went off and got a lovely tomato sauce added to it – all free of charge and with a smile.
The moon was full and beaming romance in the reflections on the canals as we walked home – thinking how surreal this all was being here in Venice together. Its hard to describe the feeling other than nirvana – something you want to hold and freeze for time.
Travels with Valrock 