We went out early because we found out that there was an event called the Vogalonga on Sunday morning which consisted of well over 1500 small boats that were rowed or paddled. They were off on a 30km trip around the Venetian islands, starting from St. Mark's lagoon. And I have to say it was quite a sight to behold. Traditional boats with all the rowers standing. Copious amounts of kayaks. Dragon boats. Big, old wooden row boats. They were all there. At 9am a canon was fired and music played them off on their way. It was definitely worth getting an early(ish) start to see.
From there we went off to see the Doge's Palace. Opulence and grandeur, and a prison next door connected to the palace by the Bright of Sighs.
That's my brothers in the background there.
The Grand Salon was the most impressive room. It truly represents the wealth and power of Venice in its heyday.
The view from the Bridge of Sighs from the inside looking out was almost better than the view from outside looking in.
We wandered around in the afternoon, and then went to the Rialto Bridge to see some of the rowers returning from their around the islands trek. I was glad we did. There was a general euphoria from the rowers/paddlers and lots of cheers for them from the onlookers.
Later on we encountered a flashback from my past in the form of a cruise ship arriving as we wandered about. Though the ships I once I sailed into Venice on were a fraction of this size, and this behemoth did not get the privilege of sailing past St. Mark's to get to the cruise terminal. I think I agree with the new rules restricting the route for these ships. This thing was massive!
Another dinner out and then I talked one of my brothers into drinks in St. Mark's Square seeing as how it was our final evening and the weather was warm and dry. A totally beautiful evening.
Yes, I know the drink prices are exorbitant but you do get live music and one of the best atmospheres in the world. Worth the price in my mind.
And that was the trip to Venice done. I have to say spending time with just my mum and my brothers was really, really nice. Turns out we still all get along well, even without the buffer zone of spouses and children. I'd happily go away with them again. Hope they feel the same.
Here's my favourite photo from our trip.
Seriously, I look at my mum striding along there and there is no way you'd ever guess we were celebrating her turning eighty. No way at all!
Susan
What a fabulous family trip and memory to have. No way would I think your mum was eighty from that photo.
ReplyDeleteYou guys know how to celebrate a birthday is such style. Looking at your Mum there I would have thought she was in her 40's. So glad you brought us along on your trip because I've had the time of my life !
ReplyDeleteWow, a fabulous trip to celebrate a memorable birthday, despite the rain and pink toes!
ReplyDeleteI was last in Venice 43 yrs ago(!) and had my bum pinched black and blue!!! I loved it, especially the trip to the islands of Murano and Burano.
Glad you had a lovely trip and the opportunity to create another precious memory with your mum & the bros. And I'm with you on the drinks in piazza San Marco thing - it has to be done! Xx
ReplyDeleteThank you for the visit to Venice.I visited there in 1973, a long time ago and your pictures brought back such memories. So lovely for you to be able to visit with your mum and brothers. She is certainly a young looking 80.
ReplyDeleteI saw that last pic on IG and thought but that can't be Susan's Mum because she said she just turned 80 and that does not look like the figure of an 80 year old! Had she been to Venice before and what did she think of it?
ReplyDeleteA lovely reminder of my visit to Venice. What a lovely trip for you, your brothers and your mum. So pleased to see the sun came out for you.
ReplyDeleteThere is no way your mum looks like she is 80.
Really nice post - loved seeing your photos and glad you had a great time! Saw your project in love P&Q magazine - love it!
ReplyDeleteGreat read. I have just spent a week celebrating my birthday ( do we actually celebrate being THAT old?) with my family. Had just the best time. Your Mum looks great for 80!
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous holiday! Welcome back xx
ReplyDeleteSusan, you have it so right about the last photo! Happy Birthday to your mom, WHO looks like a Young girl! Thank you for sharing your amazing holiday photos! x Teje
ReplyDelete80 is the new 60; I'm banking on 45 being the new 25 too!
ReplyDeleteWonderful trip and memories xxx
Those two brothers of yours look like really fantastic (good looking, fit, etc.) guys. And good news they're from excellent genetic stock.
ReplyDeleteBig Bro (the better looking one of the two)
PS - It was a good trip indeed.
Looks wonderful! Glad you had a great break with your family. Wonder how manageable Venice would be with a buggy. Hubby keeps threatening to go there for an orienteering festival and I def wouldn't want tobe left at home!!!
ReplyDeleteYour pictures are fabulous and I did not recognize your mum from behind. I glad you guys had such a great trip.
ReplyDeleteCan't believe she's 80!! Looks like you all had a fabulous time
ReplyDeleteCan't believe she's 80!! Looks like you all had a fabulous time
ReplyDeleteI love, love Venice. So dramatically beautiful. Amazing food and beverage. It sounds like you had a very special trip indeed. And, no, I can't believe your mother is that age!
ReplyDeleteIt looked like your mum had a lovely birthday celebration. #4 son and his bride are going in August. Any standout restaurants you can recommend?
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