I fell in love with Venice when I was there for the first time 15 years ago.
I am still in love with it today.
It is a place where you can truly get lost for hours in the narrow little streets.
Every corner you turn presents a breathtaking view. Again, we were so lucky with the weather. One day it was even warm enough to eat lunch outside by the canal.
Venice is all about eating…
Drinking Bellinis…….
and getting lost…….
There are no cars anywhere in Venice.
All deliveries, emergency vehicles, even trash is done via the water.
Gondolas are very touristy, but I still love them.
We took the 50 cent ride – vs the 80 euro ride! 
Gondolas are also used by locals for their main mode of transportation.
some are very elaborate….
with ornate gold decorations.
and the Gondoliers!
with hats and striped shirts….waiting for customers.
peaceful……
Carnival Masks are everywhere in Venice.
Carnival began in 1268 and the wearing of masks and costumes was established in 1436. In 1797, the Austrians took control of the city and the celebrations stopped.
The popularity of the masks wasn't brought back until the 1980s, when a modern mask shop opened. It is now a huge tourist attraction.
Venice seems to run slower than most cities, people relax and stop for a chat.
This man is receiving his delivery via a basket through his window.
If you look closely – each window has a birdcage. The birds were singing very loud, they were enjoying the beautiful day too!
The colors of the city.
It is as if someone bushed it with watercolors.
Donald was working hard to get the perfect photo in Venice.
Look closely in the boxes, there is a dog and he is on a gondola.
This was definitely a new maneuver.
and his night shots were a success!
Hey – that's OUR move……eating ice cream and taking "we" photos.
We had a wonderful time…..too many photos that I want to share.
For a few more…please visit the Venice album on the right hand side of the first page of the blog. Arrivederci!
The XtraSuitcase 
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