In Venice soon. Finally.

I have probably been to Venice 15 times since my first trip in the late 80's, including a year and a half residency in 1998-99. But here's an irony: ever since I started this blog, going on three years ago, I haven't been able to visit the city I write about.

The Curse of Veniceblog.

Circumstances have conspired to scuttle plans again and again. Remember how the lead character in the movie "It's A Wonderful Life", George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart), kept getting stuck in Bedford Falls just as he was getting ready to see the world? Like that.

Of course having two little kids has changed the logistics a little, too. As in doubling airfare, inspiring an abject terror of long flights, and changing my view of canals from "quaint and beautiful" to "quaint and beautiful latent drowning spots".

Anyway, the curse is about to be lifted. The kids are somewhat older. The heavens have aligned. Just pulled the trigger on the airfare. We'll be in Venice -- me, Lori, Nat and Miles from July 8 to July 22, in time for the Feast of the Redentore. We've got a table on the fondamenta along the Canale della Guidecca.

So if any of you are around then, especially any of you Venetian abitanti, let's hook up. Shoot me an email.

Comments

[Sharon Z]

Congrats on getting back to Venice! I can't wait to hear about the kids' reactions. I wish I could be there in July, but I don't think I'm going back to Venice this year. Oh well, there's always 2007...
Sharon

[GIOVANNI JARA]

Hellow there I am Giovanni from California.
Good luck out there with the kids.
I have been to Venice 4 times, and I just got back from a 10 day stay in April near the fish market. We stayed at the Pensione Guerratto. I wish I could find a way to make a living
in the Veneto and move to the island for good. I love Venice I have made plans to have my heart cremated and tossed over the Realto bridge when I die.

[Lolly]

Does anybody know what the seat map will be like for the David Gilmour conert in Venice Aug. 4 2006? I bought 2 tickets and don't have a clue! THX Lolly

[Loislane17]

Was just there for time #8 in October--for the first time during the Biennale--that was spectacular!

I generally avoid summer because I produce an arts festival in June and can't manage it and also coz the heat & crowds get to me faster these days!

I'm hoping I can sneak over in the crappy January thru March winter season! I don't care when as long as I'm there! Besides last time I got these cute wading boots, so I'm ready!

Have a spectacular time with the kids!

[Kurt]

Norman -

My wife (and I)justhad a baby and she is displaying all of the same fears you expressed. How about a 'Venice with kids' post? Maybe get everyone to chime in on overcoming all of the practical concerns - what to do if a child gets sick? what stroller to get to manage the bridges/ boats/canals? where to buy formula? diapers? what is the best neighborhood to stay in? kid friendly restaurants? activities? etc..
Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi, I need to go to Venice(and,yes, you're my only hope)!
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I'll blog about it from Venice ... good idea