Venice

Michael, Marian, Julie and John and us are staying in the same hotel. We all agree it would be hard to have chosen a better one. It's in a suburb called Castello which is on the main harbour. It's only about 300 meters from the hugely busy San Marco area but there seems to be an invisible barrier between that area and where our hotel is. We were concerned about crowds but they're almost no issue to us. There are so many nice areas we have visited that seem so quaint but stylish whereas the busy area where the main block of tourists are is full of junk stalls and tourist shops. It's all rather odd but we aren't complaining.

The weather has been perfect every day. Yesterday we visited the Murano glass factory and bought a vase. It will be perfect for the house and a great daily memory of our trip.

Tonight we had our last dinner together for the holiday and tomorrow morning we'll say our goodbyes. The best part of the holiday has been the fun we've had together. M&M and J&J have been great company. It's been a wonderful time and tomorrow is our last full day.

It's sad that it's ending but we're really looking forward to seeing our family and friends back at home. :)

Photos. Some shots of Michael's here. On the boat to Murano. Having "pre's" in Via Garibaldi while a cruise ship is departing. They're sooo close. Our hotel is at the end of the street and our room is right in the harbour. Another canal view and the group in front of our hotel.