Italy #18
Today we went in and out of many, many glass shops in Murano. Wow what neat stuff and much of it very expensive. And we both liked the expensive stuff made by artists, signed, limited editions, etc. We wisely left it all there. We watched a glass blower make horses which was fascinating. He did them in 2 minutes! They are beautiful and delicate. I would have bought one but I don't think the thin legs would have made it home intact. We had an interesting ride home on the varparetto going somewhere we hadn't been before. Murano is one of the islands a few minutes from Venice.
Some random thoughts:
Saw their ambulances today -- yellow boats the same shape as the taxis which we figure are about 30 feet long and about as wide as Don's boat.
We tried to eat our gelato at an outside table but got kicked off. One mustn't sit unless one orders from the waiter then it costs way more.
The taxi drivers all stand when they drive around. They seemed very busy today -- Saturday.
We see people sitting at the end of docks all the time. Only place to be on the water unless you are at a restaurant or on a boat.
The posts holding things up are rotting at the water's edge. So sad to see the abandoned lower floors of all the buildings. Many stores seem to be built up inside as there is a step up into them. They have air conditioning -- often a portable with the hose stuck out the door because it's dripping moisture all the time.
Speaking of moisture. My cold from 10 days or so ago was mild but it gave me an annoying tickle which magically disappeared as soon as I got into Venice. Lots of moisture in the air.
We have been grateful many times that we have travelled with small suitcases. Much easier to manage. We are going home with our carry-on size checked and a duffle bag with things like breakables. Eleanor is having trouble staying under the 26 lbs for carry-on but I have room in my bag so took a few things. Hope all goes well tomorrow with our middle of the night adventure catching the vaparetto then bus.