May 2008 - The Parklander Magazine

Next to Doge’s Palace, you will find a former prison. It is said that prisonerswere led down a narrow street across the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri)to be executed.The Venetians believe that young lovers are promised eternallove if they should kiss in a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs. Maybe thislegend has something to do with the fact that Casanova (the great lover),escaped from the prison in 1756!Venice has much more to offer than just tourist sights. Perhaps the best way toreally see Venice is to explore some of their colorful neighborhoods and take inthe local flavor.Try one of the lively fresh food markets when you cross RialtoBridge to the neighborhood of San Polo, or explore the workshops and studiosof artists who sell carnival masks and marbled paper, behind the market.Campo San Polo is alive with cafes and street entertainers, and children playingin the Cannaregio quarter. As you pass through tiny campos along quietcanals lined by colorful Venetian homes, you’ll discover Europe’s first ghettoand the exquisite colored marble church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli.The busiest time to visit Venice is during Carnevale season between Jan. 28and Feb 9. Carnevale is Venice’s most famous festival and their version ofMardi Gras, complete with costumes, great food, fireworks, and revelry.Easter time and April through June are peak times. Book your trip early.There are plenty of charming historical hotels available in St. Mark’s Squarewith 18th-century style ambiance and stunning views of the piazza, but thereare some less expensive accommodations to be found just outside the city.Buon viaggio. Ciao for now!the PARKLANDER81