Venice!!

Our second stop on the European tour was Venice! Venice is one of Nate's favorite places in Europe from his earlier excursions. Something about the laid back, romantic atmosphere just sneaks up on you. The food was beyond delicious, and even if the weather was cold it still was just a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Paris. The island is just big enough that you feel like you always have something to see, yet it is small enough that you don't feel pressured to hurry and see what's around the next bend. 

#1 lesson learned about Venice: No wireless internet access anywhere

#2 lesson learned about Venice: You will get lost. Guaranteed. Get a good map!

#3 lesson learned about Venice: Venice has it all. Food, shopping, great architecture, and atmosphere.

With that in mind.... Let's get to the pictures!

St. Mark's square sans pigeons. Usually there are thousands of them in the square

but apparently they don't enjoy the cold Mediterranean winter weather.

The Grand Canal

Gondola ride - $80/person. No thanks.

We found out why they call it the "road of passion"

Also, we felt bad about not finding an international shoe store named for our other sister 

in-law Heather. So we found a street named after their amazing little boy Zane!

Hopefully all is now forgiven :)

Our room. Slightly better than our shanty in Paris.

Italian food > French food

The instant reaction to your first taste of a Fritella Venezia

I seriously want a painting of this Canal for our house!

Jen now has no qualms about eating chocolate

Venice is best seen at night

Next stop. Rome!!!