Buongiorno Venezia, Italia

Buongiorno! Come va? We depart Innsbruck, Austria, approximately 0730 am and are crossing the Italian border by 0800.

At some point during the evening, my phone had died and my beautiful deep sleep was interrupted at 0600 by the landline ringing in my room. I felt I'd experienced some divine intervention. Some confirmation from the universe that my journey, both through Europe, and indeed, life itself was guided by a higher power. I had not requested a wake-up call, yet I was woken in good time to ensure I wasn't left behind. I then shared my (spiritual!) story at breakfast. And it was explained to me Luigi had told us all that wake-up calls had been arranged for everyone. Bubble burst. I finish breakfast. Pack my play lunch and big lunch, and board the coach. Another country. Another spoon stolen.

Venice. Unassuming as we approach by ferry. Once we'd arrived though. Wow. I'm not sure I can find words to describe the beauty of this city. The intricate detail and opulence. The soaring monuments, colour, the marble and statues. The art. The history. The turquoise waters of the canals. This city breathes romance and I can't help but wish I had a love to share this moment with.

We weave our way to Murano glass, an icon of Venice, and I'm captivated by the glass blowing process. I mentally commit to the classes I've been meaning to do forever. I splurge on a set that speaks to my soul. No regrets. Keep an eye out for that delivery Dad 🤑. You may need to pay the sales tax 😉.

Michelle, my new found best American compadre and I, board a Gondola with 2 lovely ladies in our group, single though travelling together. We are dismissed of the romance. Our gondolier must too be a divorcee, jaded in this city of love. I take control and play "That's amore" through my spotify. It suffices, though it seems more appropriate to blast milkshake. We're all soon singing along to milkshake through the canals of Venice. It does not however, bring any boys to the yard.

I sit alone in a Cafe and appropriately order an Italian merlot. Tiramisu. And delight in the beauty of Italy 🇮🇹 .

Salute to new friends, and Graci Venezio, graci.Read more