Getting Lost in Venice

Today we spent the entire day wondering around Venice. I had read the best way to see Venice is to spend some time exploring and just getting lost among the tiny alleyways and canals. Well that is exactly what we did, but it was more on accident than on purpose. Whoever suggested getting lost was right. I was so nice wondering around and not having to fight the crowds, BUT it became quite the headache when we were attempting to find where we were and where we needed to go. We did finally find our way to St. Mark's Square, but we a little disappointed because about 40-50% of the area is covered in scaffolding that has been plastered with huge ads. The structures covered are areas of St. Mark's Square, half of St. Mark's Basilica, large portions of the Doge's Palace, the entire base of the watch tower, and all around the Bridge of Sighs except for the bridge it's self. I know they have to do what they can to save the city, but really, who comes half way around the world to see a huge ad for Sketchers?!?! Really?!? On some portions they actually used photos of the areas of the buildings covered in scaffolding and wrapped that scaffolding in those huge photos. So even though you couldn't see the actual building, you could see a photo of the building. Where they did this was much nicer than the huge ads.

We did have some nice gelatto today and a mint slushy type thing. I was good, just different. Apparently it's pretty popular here, that and Lemon. I still think I prefer blue raspberry from a 7-11.

Early this afternoon as we were walking along, Meme got a couple of nose bleeds. She is on some medicine where that can be a side effect, so we got a little worried. We were right next to a small outside cafe right next to the Grand Canal, so we decided to get something to drink and eat while resting in the shade and enjoying the view. We ended of getting some really good Italian style pizza, making what could have been a bad situation into a delicious one. As we were sitting, we checked the Rick Steve's book on what to do next and low and behold this very place was mentioned as a great place to grab lunch. Thanks Rick!

All in all it was a nice day just wondering around and taking it all in. Venice is such a neat place, just a whole new world in it's self!