Challenge 2 - find Venice - smashed!!!
The receptionist pointed me in the direction of the local bus and said that it was the best way to get there. So I braved the bus and within 10 minutes was there. I decided just to head off on foot and see how easy it is to navigate the tiny streets without taking a water taxi straight to San Marco/Saint Mark's Square.
I definitely made the right choice, in Venice all you need to do is let your senses guide you, if something smells nice find it, if something catches your eye walk towards it and if something sounds interesting follow it.
It was quiet on the outskirts of Venice where I arrived and it had just began to rain. I had read that the shops shut on Sunday and add the rain and the fact that it was 4.30pm to that, I was wondering if anything would be going on at all. I just picked a direction and started walking. It wasn't long before I came across signs for San Marco but I let my feet and senses guide me. The shops were definitely not shut and no-one minded the rain. Whenever I came to a square between pathways it was filled with costume wearing performers and enthusiastic fans. Stalls selling masks and souvenirs were everywhere you looked. I searched for a mask as I took in everything I saw, still hoping I'd arrive at San Marco eventually. Ice cream parlours, crepe stalls, pizza bars and doorway pubs seemed to be where it was happening. Nearly every restaurant I passed was empty, the party was in the streets. I found myself a red mask to match my coat and disappeared in to the crowds, it's amazing the confidence it gives you when everyone is wearing masks and you can't read expressions. The sound of music was growing louder at each corner and I followed signs to San Marco. I knew I was close and all of a sudden a huge bell began to chime and I was seconds away from the massive clock tower in Saint Mark's Square. I turned the corner and I couldn't believe my eyes, there was a stage and music. Lanterns in the sky, sooo many costumes and the buildings looked stunning as it was sunset as I got there. As I wandered around filling my camera I realised I'd watched the square transform in to night time, lights everywhere and the perfect party atmosphere.
It got to 7.30 without me noticing and I decided to join the masses, I got a massive slice of pizza from one of the street bars. Followed by a nuttela crepe and some wine from a stall in the square.
Taking it all in and hoping this happens again tomorrow night. It's started to get pretty cold and it has been a long day so I've made my way back to the hotel. That was harder on the way back, I couldn't work out what stop I needed so I guessed. I was a little bit off but I learnt that I can read a map if I need to and made it back.
I can't wait to see what tomorrow has in store for me.