Every tourist destination has its attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more information about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.

Venice is enchanting! Unique in all the world, it has become one of the planet’s most visited and most loved places. There are never any cars to watch out for. The city is composed of over 100 islands cobbled together and connected by bridges. Winding through the center of the city is the Grand Canal, Venice’s main street. All serious travelers must experience Venice for at least the following reasons:

1. Venice sits at the crossroads of Europe and has regularly traded with both the East and the West. This has created a blending of culture so that Venetian architecture, for example, contains Byzantine elements along with more traditional European styles. This combination is clearly evident in St Mark’s Basilica.

St Mark’s Basilica

2. Bridges are an essential part of the Venetian scene. One of the most famous is the Bridge of Sighs which leads from the Doge’s Palace, where justice was handed down, to the prison from which many never returned.

Bridge of Sighs

3. Gondolas are another integral part of city life in Venice. They are perfect for maneuvering the narrow canals.

Gondolas on Venice’s Lagoon

4. Views of the city from the Campanile (Bell Tower) of St Mark’s are spectacular.

View from the Campanile