Venice (Venezia), Italy

Probably the most romantic city in the world, definitely unique, perhaps second only to Rome in beauty, Venice brings people back to a way of living that is forgotten in our major cities. The fact that cars are non-existent, and waterways rather than streets are the means of travel, is one peculiar characteristic that contributes to the mysticism and mystery within the city that takes visitors on an imaginary trip towards the future, while taking them back in history. Ironically, two of the most important museums of modern art in the world are in Venice and so is the internationally acclaimed Venice film festival. This shows that the city is constantly moving forward, although its architecture and u

The narrow streets, "le Calle" as they are called by the Venetians, allow a marvelous walk, and in essence take the souls of the walkers into a different dimension, frozen in time, radiating an energy of emotions while at the same time, sometimes strangely static and silent, especially at night. Venice can be a cold city, humid, and empty at times and yet alive, spiritual, artistic, and strongly emotional. It feels as if someone is always following you in a distinguished labyrinth, even if you can't see them. Venice talks all the time and yet is dramatically silent, mute and inquisitive, distant, unfriendly, and then again romantic and full of color.

Burano Island, Near Venice

Venice seems indeed a contradiction of itself, but in reality it is a city that has been at the center of the world for centuries, remaining itself, exchanging goods and culture with the most remote corners of the planet. Marco Polo's tales show the extension of the Venetian commerce, but  its layout and the water often convey a sense of isolation and skepticism toward the outside world. Venice features incredible buildings such as the famous theater "La Fenice" which recently burned down and was entirely rebuilt, an accident that caught the attention of the most famous artists in the world, in particular Woody Allen who made a personal effort to help in the reconstruction. However, Venice has many dark sides which make the city mysterious and very challenging to live within. The food is not really the best considering Italian standards, the water and the extreme natural conditions often create problems and a bad odor, and restaurants and bars close very early, leaving Venice a sort of ghost town.

Venice Rialto Bridge

In a very real way, it is filled with ghosts - haunted, filled with spirits that drift through the streets and over the bridges. We don't want to scare anyone here, but it is actually a wonderful feeling to be possessed by an entire city, to be part of its history. Of course a nice ride on a gondola on the Canal Grande or a picture in piazza San Marco are great things, but to truly experience Venice one must let those "spirits" in, without forgetting to have a drink at Harry's Bar or spending an evening at the Danieli, because Venice is also that.

One event that truly summarizes Venice's spirit is Carnival, where the colors and the costumes reflect a soul slightly different from the Carnival presented in other cities: less "dancing" than in Rio, for instance, yet classy and strong as its overall emotional impact.

On a more tangible basis, the city of Venice offers a series of small shops that are second to none in the world. Among some of the most famous, it is important to remember the glass workers of the small island of Murano that for centuries has crafted glass with style and perfection. A stop on Murano is a must when visiting Venice; it is an experience that rewards the interest and the cultural appetite of almost anyone.

Public Transportation in Venice

To conclude this virtual journey in the Calle of Venice, it is important to remember that the city lives and breathes almost like a human being, sinking in the sea, asking for respect and protection that are not always reciprocated by the millions of tourists visiting every year. Please, let's all together protect this treasure that belongs to the entirety of humanity. Take care when visiting to  listen to the past, walk the streets of the present, and imagine a future of which this lovely, ancient city is a vital part.