A Place of Passage

Stepping off the train at dusk, it was 20:00. It is late October.

Venice—I had been here twice before, both times imagining myself wrapped in romance. I remember watching couples glide through the canals on gondolas, hands intertwined down hidden alleys, secrets kept. So many places to kiss, to be swept away by the magic of the city. And yet, here I stood, alone.

My first trip by myself and I felt strange to have chosen a city for two.

“It is always assumed that Venice is the ideal place for a honeymoon. This is a grave error.  To live in Venice, or even to visit it, means you fall in love with the city itself.  There is nothing left over in your heart for anyone else.” – Peggy Guggenheim

The air chilled. Water shimmered under the streetlights, boats rocked gently on the waves, and laughter echoed through the streets. The city, alive, and enchanting in the night. I was charmed, floating even.

Up in my room, I gazed out the window, taking in the view. My heart fluttered like the rush of a first kiss. The energy of the place was livening, I felt a million feelings.

“Let your feelings flow”

At dawn I set off, trailing behind a young girl along the cobblestone streets. She looked to be about ten, her backpack emblazoned with the words: Let your feelings flow. She marched toward school with quiet determination.

The morning light drenched the city in a gold yellow. I stood transfixed at the life and people surrounding me.

Venice has a way of drawing attention, making everyone feel like they are part of the story.

Recommendations:

Wake at sunrise to meet the locals. Enjoy a caffè e cornetto.

Lunch at Casin Dei Nobili.

Visit Theater La Fenice.

Shop the original Venetian slippers at Piedàterre Venezia, handcrafted since 1952.

Watch the sunset from Zattere Al Ponte Longo, then wander back through the city at dusk. Find young people gathered at Campo dei Tolentini waiting lines for aperitivo.