Page 23 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL SPRING 2025 GRAND VOYAGE
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chaos faded away.                                  Instead, a light drizzle enhanced the city's
           Prior to boarding, we had spent several            beauty, creating an almost serene
           days in Chioggia, which proved a delightful        atmosphere as we watched Venice’s domes
           surprise. Evoking some of Venice's charms          and towers rise through the mist. The quiet
           without the tourist crush, Chioggia’s canals       hum of the engine and the cries of seagulls
           reflected its colorful buildings, many dating      provided a tranquil soundtrack. This
           back centuries, and the gently rocking             quieter, more contemplative side of Venice
           fishing and pleasure boats. Narrow streets         was a rare treat.
           opened into vibrant piazzas, and the fresh         Stepping off the ferry, we revisited familiar
           seafood was exceptional.                           landmarks with fresh eyes. Piazza San
           After four days in the “Little Venice,” we         Marco, though still populated with camera-
           opted for a day-trip into the fabled city          wielding tourists and pigeons, felt less
           itself. This journey turned into an adventure      frenetic. The Grand Canal, usually bustling
           - especially as we tried to pick the right         with activity, appeared almost peaceful in
           ferry across the lagoon to the heart of the        the gray light. Finding a table for a relaxing
           city. Traveling in the off-season, we              lunch also was a contrast to the high-
           avoided both crowds and stifling heat.             season frenzy.





















































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