VISITS AND VACATIONS

Hello ladies and gents this week we are going to the beautiful city of

VENICE

GRAND CANAL

During the high season, the water buses that troll up and down the Grand Canal can be oppressively crowded, especially during morning and evening commutes. Avoid the chaos by traveling the Grand Canal at night, which is a beautiful option as all the regal palaces are lit up, making the ceiling frescos and grand chandeliers visible.

Another way to bypass the throngs of tourists on the Grand Canal is to hire your own water taxi. Some boats even serve on-board champagne. This indulgence is pricier than public transport, but it’s a great idea if you're traveling with a group and want to indulge in water-borne transport (it’s often cheaper than gondolas, too). Water taxis are also easier to navigate down smaller, scenic canals. Plus, as it's only your group onboard, you can slow for photos as often as you like.

Carnevale Festival

Every February, the city hosts the traditional Carnival where more than three million people dress up in masquerade costumes and dance until dawn. What makes this party different? It dates to Renaissance times. Venetians wear gilded white masks and the theatrical outfits range from black capes to ball gowns and feathered hats. It’s a spectacular sight to see.

All’Arco

For a true Venetian breakfast or afternoon aperitif, All’Arco is by far the most authentic and delicious spot in town. You come here, of course, for the famous cicchetti snacks, which are basically fresh meats, produce or cheese in various combinations that are delicately balanced atop small slices of crostini. Arrive in the early morning and elbow up next to the boisterous fishmongers from the nearby Rialto Market. They will be refuelling on cichetti and prosecco well before noon, as a Venetian does.

I hope you liked this post and as always have a chilled day from the viking.