When I seek another word for ‘music’, I never find any other word than ‘Venice.’

When I seek another word for ‘music’, I never find any other word than ‘Venice.’ – Friedrich Nietzsche.

September 15, 2023

We slept in a bit as our bodies are still adjusting to the 9 hour time change. Of course, then we had to scramble as one of the few timed entries was at 9:30. A quick espresso and off we headed to...

The Basilica San Marco

The most important Church of Venice was built in the Piazza San Marco after the relics of the patron saint were brought back to Venice in the year 828.

Piazza San Marco

That's the history. The September 2023 version... Holy Cow!!! If Saint Mark's remains are here, the the old saying "you can't take it with you" is true. From the moment you walk in the door you are overwhelmed by the gold and the art. And seeing the art in the place it was created for is incredible.

Plum Plum Creations

But this day was only getting started. Before our trip, I had been corresponding with a local Venetian artist named Arianna Sautariello. Through the use of her drawings and etchings she still prints as they did in the 15th century.

Arianna welcomed us to her small workshop called Plum Plum Creations on a small canal in Venice where she personalized a demonstration of her craft for us.

It was an amazing time as this young lady, who we can now call a friend, showed us the meticulous and detailed steps of her art. One of the best things that happened to us in Venice.

And, of course, we now have some new art to display back home. :-)

Arianna was not the only artist we met. As we strolled though a small square we came across this lady who through her chalk and concrete was able to create master pieces.

Gondola Ride

I can't tell you how many people told me that the gondola rides in Venice are just "tourist traps" and not worth the money. To those folks, I can only feel a little sad. A gondola ride through the small canals of Venice is one of the most iconic, romantic and magical adventures you can ever have in your life. Just do it! It's incredible.

Monica Cesarato

I'd like to introduce you to Monica Cesarato. This little bundle of energy and happiness that was our partner for three hours of Cicchetti and gelato. Funny, informative and surprisingly saucy, she guided us through an incredible evening.

She walked us through the art of wine in Venice. The foods of Venice and took us out of our comfort zone as we tried dishes that normally we would never have put into our mouths. Let me tell you up front... everything was delicious! Gelato in a cup of espresso, tuna in peppers, baccala, anchovies and sardines. We are so glad we tried it.