Last night I took a stroll around Venice to experience the city at night. I was amazed at how few tourists there were roaming about.  I walked along the water's edge and came across the Santa Maria Della Salute. This church was build because of the plague that killed thousands. On November 21 every year, Festa della Madonna della Salute, the city's officials parade from San Marco to the Salute for a service in gratitude for deliverance from the plague. Basically, people pray to the Lady of Health for their well being.  

I came across several structures that look like wells in the middle of piazzas. They are sealed shut but I believe at one time, people here use to use these wells.  They are scattered throughout the city and serve as a reminder of the past.  

The city is quite beautiful at night. I passed several photographers with tripods taking pictures.  I don't blame them.  There are definitely some great views here.  

I went to bed at a decent time but it seems as through the area I chose was not the wisest.  People were screaming, singing, dancing, playing music (drums of all things!) and just being very loud.  Of all the places in Venice, I had to pick the noisiest one.  Everywhere else was very quiet when I went on my walk.  Remember, when visiting Venice, don't stay in the area called Campo Santa Margherita, unless  you are planning to stay up all night.  

It's another rainy day.  I'm glad I was out and about yesterday to see the sights.  I took a few pictures of some interesting buildings but I don't know their names.  

Everything is hauled into the city on barges.   I snapped a picture of workers unloading supplies, fresh fruit and vegetables.  I also noticed it was garbage day.  Rubbish was being hauled from every business and residence with dollies or wheelbarrow like carts, onto special garbage boats.  It was really cool to see.  The city is kept quite clean considering.   

I found a grocery store!!!  I bought some buns to make sandwiches.  Things are quite expensive here and eating out has to be limited.   I also purchased some bottled water and fruit.  

I've escaped the rain for awhile and popped into a cafe to have a coffee and update my blog. I'll have to head out soon. I think I'm overstaying my visit.  

I might head back to the hostel, have a bite to eat and figure out what to do the rest of this rainy day.   I'm hoping the rain stops.   Cross your fingers!!

On my way back I REALLY got lost. Good thing I did. I found a gold mine!  Well, not really gold but you know what I mean. I searched the Internet and I'm surprised this place I found was not on the top 10 list.   It was the market.  Fresh fish, fruits and veggies, dried goods, meats and cheese.   Wow.  The smell from the fish was not my favourite but I persevered.   It feels like you step into a locals daily life when you go into a market.  Vendors yelling an screaming the prices and what they are offering. The constant movement of people scoping the goods.  Money being exchanged for food.  Again, it made the fact that I was lost, all worth while.

Earlier I mentioned those wheelbarrow like carts.  Well I noticed they had
4 wheels.  Two large and 2 small.  I noticed a worker using it.  Now I know why they have those extra wheels.  They make it easier to go up and down the stairs over bridges.  They look so easy to use (for them).  I guess the get lots of practice.  

Q18

What does 'Festa' mean?