Apr 04, 2001 10:33 PM
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In a world that seems possessed with sameness, there is a single place that is so unique, so apart, so fascinating, that it should be a must for every traveler. For hundreds of years it was known as The Most Serene Republic. Now, it's known by its more common name: Venice. Tucked into its protected lagoon, this city without streets is a treasure for almost everyone.
For those who enjoy history, 1,500 years of it exist among the canals and palaces, remnants of a time when Venice was a center of commerce and power.
For visitors who enjoy luxurious accommodations, the grandest of the palaces of the past are now available, modernized, but without losing their charm.
There is music. On a spring or summer evening, the orchestras on the Piazza San Marco offer everything from show tunes to jazz beneath star filled skies. Churches and public buildings echo with the music of Vivaldi and other classical composers.
But, most of all, Venice is for lovers. There is no more romantic place. From al fresco dining along the Grand Canal to quiet walks on quieter streets to a moonlit moment in a gondola, Venice offers it all. Moments to last a lifetime are born here and few leave without wondering when they can return.
Venice is easily reachable from most European and Asian points. It's served by a mainland airport and rail service that terminates near the western end of the Grand Canal.
As with most popular tourist destinations, prices in Venice can be daunting. But, for those who are patient, affordable lodging can always be found. On my last trip, I booked a beautiful room on the Lido, the barrier island that protects the lagoon from the sometimes harsh weather of the Adriatic Sea. With ferry service to the city steps away and all of the Venetian experience 15 minutes away, the rate for our Lido room in May was only $100 (4,600 INR.) That's about 40% of what a similar room would cost in the city.
Dining can also be expensive but there are plenty of trattorias off the main passages that offer excellent food at affordable prices. On our recent trip we ate most of our meals on the Lido, near our hotel, at greatly reduced rates and saved our money for a couple of wonderful meals in Venice's better restaurants.
For those with flexible schedules, I recommend May as the very best time to visit. The summer months are peak tourist seasons and the island is a sea of people. In August, heat and humidity can be brutal and, with air conditioned rooms rare, sleeping can be uncomfortable. September and October are also nice but then, the weather becomes unpredictable with rain and high tides flooding San Marco now and then, forcing visitors to walk on narrow platforms. February is a special time in Venice with Carnival a magical week of celebration.
Finally, some advice for those who plan to visit Venice:
Buy a multi-day ferry pass as soon as you arrive. Three and seven day passes offer unlimited transportation at a fraction of the per trip rates.
Be sure you've negotiated an agreeable rate before you enter a gondola or water taxi. Taking a ride without agreeing on a lessor rate can cost $75 (3,495 INR) or more.
If you're driving in Italy and include Venice in your plans, you can store your car near the entrance to the Grand Canal. The rates can be steep, $25 (1,165 INR) a day or more. Consider a reservation on the Lido. A ferry will take you there and some hotels offer free parking.
If you can find a way to visit Venice, do so. It's one of the grand travel experiences in the world today. Be sure to include the islands of Murano (the Island of Glass,) Burano (the Island of Lace,) and Torcello in your itinerary. But, leave plenty of time to explore Venice itself. It's a wonderful place where rounding every corner seems to offer a new surprise.
