Tuesday, September 16, continued
Burano lace is pretty, and it took a lot of will power to keep from buying some. Lots of masks for sale -- some different from those we saw in Venice. I'm being driven to distraction by my indecision. At this point, I need to buy one to get it over with, but don't. Maritza had luck in finding some gifts and a lovely mask for herself. We planned on spending only a short time here -- it turned into seven hours. The weather was just too perfect, the ambiance too inviting. Time went by quickly. We both noticed there were no hotels -- too bad, or maybe that helps the island retain its dignity. It could be pleasant to stay here and visit Venice by day.
We landed at San Marcos and, naturally, found many more shops we'd not seen the night before. I bought a mask and was happy to find one I liked. Maritza bought another at the same shop -- the selection was quite good. After really terrible pizza that tasted like cardboard (the only bad meal on the trip), we wearily found our way back home.
What high appreciation we have for our hotel and its location. How wonderful to have hot water whenever we want it; we both took long baths to sooth our aching bones. My feet are killing me -- so are my legs. I used to be able to tour 12-14 hours with little rest -- guess I'm not as young as I used to be.
I'm glad we're spending four nights here. There's no way this city can be seen in a day or two. Most tourists see San Marcos and Rialto areas, tour the palace, and that's about it. Such a pity. There's so much more to Venice. One must take time to stroll the back streets, relax at a cafe alongside a canal, and best of all, get lost! This city is made for getting lost -- it's small and getting lost doesn't last very long.
