The people who run the big sights in Venice have generally welcomed us to film, but only when they’re closed to the public. Consequently, we populate big, vacant halls with me, our producer Simon, and — if we can talk him or her into it — a reluctant guard. On this morning, we were on the balcony of St. Mark’s Basilica. The church was closed for 20 more minutes, but I noticed the line had already formed and was growing rapidly. It was fun to see how everyone had their various sources of information to prep for the experience. I didn’t see any of my guidebooks…I’d like to think it’s because my readers find ways to avoid these lines. (In the case of St. Mark’s, you can check a bag nearby for free, and your deposit receipt lets you slip directly in.)
If you can’t see the video below, watch it on YouTube.
I just read all the posts about the Cinque Terre today. Thank you so much Rick for going there this month and giving all of us an assessment. Italy, for my husband and I, may be two to three years away, and by then it looks like staying in Vernazza will be more than wonderful again.
Hello Rick, it has been over a year since I have been in Abu Dhabi and almost as long since I have read your posts. You are a most beloved friend and I have missed you. I miss reading your posts and getting to travel along on your journeys. I miss the enjoyment you share with each of us readers. I miss the daily break and being able to walk where you are walking.
Please know that you do so much good in the world by just sharing your life with us. I will be in Venice this coming weekend and then down to Florence on business. It is a great coincidence that you were just there in Venice.
All the best,
Mike
Hey Rick,
We are enjoying Florence at the moment, a big thanks for all the tips (we skipped the TI by the Mcdonalds). Where are you headed next? The coffee is on us. By the way, if you find yourself in Salzburg, during an international dog show, be prepared to sleep in a kitchen.
ciao!
aspiring world travelers,
Steven and Josiah
P.S. We would be happy to make a contribution to the next Rick Steve’s ‘Best of Europe, Junior Backpacker’s Edition’. Thanks again!
A relatively short, thin line compared to others I have observed in Italy in season. Think about more rural areas. But stay away from earthquake zones.