However when we got there we were faced with just as many tourists as anywhere else, discovering more traditional Venetian mask shops that boasted porcelain horse masks and intricate gold masks that I couldn't help but try on.
We indulged in these rather amazing pastries too. A crispy croissant type treat filled with hazelnut flavoured chocolate.
After wondering through the streets and following the crowds, we decided to take some time out, indulging in some cocktails and Venice's signature drink, a Spritz. An alcoholic aperitif, you can make this yourself by using prosecco wine, a splash of something bitter like Campari, Aperol or Cynar and topping it all off with sparkling water. It's one of the cheapest drinks in Venice and you'll spot the Italians sitting outside smoking with one of these to accompany them. So when in
This soon got us in the mood for some food and I ordered my first pasta dish, with Elliot going for his favourite, spaghetti carbonara.
When you're in Venice you find yourself just aimlessly walking around the streets, wandering into shops and eating ice cream at the many gelato stands that turn up on every corner. I recommend you get a taste of a 'full milk and cream' ice cream cone, it's like a Mini Milk but taken to the next level. After exploring and taking little breaks sitting next to the canal, we headed back and got ready for our last night.
As it was our last night in Venice, I pulled out a dress I bought a year ago and haven't worn before. This 'vintage' Topshop dress teamed with ASOS heels took us out to the Zattere stretch.
That was, until we saw the lightning, heard the thunder and predicted the impending storm that was about to fall upon Venice. Not one for running around in such horrible weather, we sat ourselves down in the restaurant directly next to our hotel. Ordered my last pizza, while Elliot went for steak with buttered potatoes.
I really did love Venice and hope to visit again. You really can't fit everything in because there is so much going on. from my visit here are a few things I've learned that you first timers might Benefit from.
Our hotel was a 2 star hotel right in the heart of everything, rather than opting for a cheaper 4 star hotel outside of the city, keep it quaint and make sure that you can get yourself out of your room without a train into Venice.
Buy vaporetto tickets in advance, you can get them from 7 up to 48 hours depending on when you plan on using them.
The map looks daunting, but you can walk to entire length of the city within a day. You end up covering more ground than you think so exploring is never an issue. You won't be getting lost any time soon.
I can't thank Elliot enough for this wonderful surprise getaway. Needless to say he deserves it after a rough few months, it was lovely to get out of the country and get some proper one on one time with him. My first ever holiday with a boyfriend went more perfect than I could have ever imagined and I can't wait to make our mark on other countries around the world.
<3
The mask is beautiful! Also I completely agree that I rather stay in the middle of the city in a 2 star hotel rather than in a 4 star on the outside of the city. You're there to explore not to hang out in a hotel! Lovely pictures! xx Rena Kiss and Make Up
ReplyDelete