What an incredible day! Many conversations today included the topic that Venice has been the favourite stop so far.
After leaving the hotel at 8:30, we arrived to the edge of Venice and met a boat which was to drop us off just outside St. Mark's Square. The ride gave us an excellent view of the surrounding area, with it's incredible architecture and ancient buildings.
After leaving the hotel at 8:30, we arrived to the edge of Venice and met a boat which was to drop us off just outside St. Mark's Square. The ride gave us an excellent view of the surrounding area, with it's incredible architecture and ancient buildings.
Once on the main island of Venice, we marched to Piazza St. Marco (St. Mark's Square) and were greeted by hundreds of pigeons, waiting for us to spend our 1.00€ on a handful of corn to feed them. In the video you will see the chaos that ensued.
The kids were then given a few hours to wander the city on their own. Most grabbed pizza and gelati, went shopping, and checked out the Rialto Bridge. Gondola rides followed, as each group of red set off into the canals of Venice, being serenaded by their gondolier. It was truly magical, the way we meandered through the alleys and dipped into the history of the city. We came out onto the grand canal, where there as a magnificent view of the rialto bridge.
More free time followed, so the shopping, pizza/gelati consuming, and pigeon feeding continued. The day was not over yet though! We finally arrived back at our buses after walking what seemed to be a half-marathon. But everybody made it back safe and sound, and it was a great way to explore the non-commercial side of Venice.
Overall it was a truly magical day, and every student found something for him or her in the city of Venice. You can guarantee they will tell you much more about their adventures when they return home. Until then, enjoy the Manitoba heat, and we miss you!
