14. First day in Venice-Jan 22

Took a train from Bologna to Venice for only 10 euros

It was just 30 minutes longer and problems were zero!

Got off the train to a brilliant site,

Sunshine reflecting off the water and church steeple high.

Purchased a water taxi pass for 72 hours

Was only about 33 US dollars.

Found the pier for the island of Lido,

Let the boat take me where ever we go.

The ride was about 30 minutes to port

And I arrived in a beautiful village fort.

I walked a few blocks until I found Le Boulevard,

A lovely pink building with a courtyard.

I checked in and they said my room was not right,

But could give me a smaller one for just one night.

The bellman opened my room

And we laughed at the site of my doom.

The bathroom was larger than the sleeping area,

And it was wall to wall leopard hairy.

I said, “It’s ok, I’m only sleeping here.”

“Don’t think it will give me nightmares.”

Unpacked and went to the beach to smell the salt air,

There is nothing like the beach, none to compare.

Walked up and down and listened to the waves,

And thought of the ancient mariners that were so brave.

On the way back, met students from Montana,

Were staying 3 months to study on the mainland.

A few more blocks and started a conversation with a couple from Paris,

We told stories and road the ferry and they said you must call us.

So another invite to Paris I’ll go,

Plans can change in midstream, you just never know.

Gondolas of course are on every canal slide
And tourist flock for a 15 minute  ride.

Spent the next three hours walking the alleys of town,

Winding and winding, stairs up and then down.

Many women in fur coats, too many to think,

One elegant signora in leopard and mink.
Carnival is the beginning of lent
And masks are to hide the demons and repent.

Everywhere there are children and dogs,
But decided to head back because of the fog,

I was surprised I found my way,

And, landed on Lido to end my day.

Went to a market to by  salad & bread,

Opened a bottle of wine , and then myself fed.
Bounonota!

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