We arrived in Venice a couple days early (recommended), and found our way to Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo. Once settled we set out for food! We stumbled upon Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio. This started our first experience of Italian culture. We were in a square where people walked their dogs, sat and visited, and kids played soccer. Several times we threw their ball back into play after it made its way near our table. It was great fun to watch them while we dined. Who would have thought, kids playing outside! It was clear that community is very important in Venice. The next day we went to see the Rialto Bridge, Harry's Bar, and ate lunch outside in the warm sunshine. We made reservations at La Zucca for dinner (see below), and had the most lovely meal and interaction with a local Venetian and her cats. The next day we visited the Frari Church and listened to a Rick Steves audio tour about the church that we had downloaded before coming to Italy. We also visited the Leonardo Da Vinci museum. And once again, had a lovely lunch outside before heading back to the hotel to meet with our tour group for the first time. Stephanie, our guide, went over the plan and we got to know others in the group. We went to dinner that night and then went to a glass blowing demonstration!

 

On day two in Venice we were treated to a Forcola making demonstration (the wooden holder for an oar on a gondola), then toured downtown Venice with a local guide. Then we had the afternoon to explore on our own. We toured St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Correr Museum. After dinner that evening, we discovered a gelato store that made the most heavenly vegan chocolate gelato. Do not miss any chance you have to sample the gelato in Italy!​