David was open today so we took ourselves down to see him early and admired his …..err.. form, as well as viewing some very old paintings and other sculptures. We then left our wonderful accommodation and made our way to the train station. That’s where the fun began! All trains and buses to Venice were fully booked today. Eek!

  
So we now had to find a way to get to Venice.

Teresa feeling unwell wasn’t helping matters. Scott went off in search of alternative transportation while Michele kept mother occupied with a steady stream of caffeine. 

Scott managed to find a rental car that could take us to Venice. It was a manual Lancia and he handled it really well despite the wet, miserable conditions. The cost of €240 was quite reasonable and very similar to what we would pay business class on the train between us all. The roads were OK but the weather was shite!

  

  
If we couldn’t get to Venice today we would still have to pay for the booked accommodation. So, Road trip!!!

Once we dropped off the car we had to catch a ferry to meet the man who would take us to our accomodation. 

  

     
The boat ride is a treat in itself as you move along the canals, admiring the beautiful buildings and residences along the way. Once we arrived at San Stae we met Marco and he led us through a labrynth of bridges and cobblestone alleyways to our final destination which was a beautiful old apartment right on a canal. 

  
After a hectic morning and an unexpected long drive Scott was in dire need of a rest, and although Teresa could have fallen asleep too someone had to occupy the only non-sicky. So off in search of dinner we went. Trying to navigate Venice in the dark was a little challenging but we managed to find takeaway pizza and some wine to bring back to the apartment ready for a much needed night in. It is worth noting that few places in the heart of Venice take credit cards so cash is very handy to have on you! So far every person that we have come into contact with in Italy have been more than helpful and quite friendly. Looking forward to exploring more of Venezia tomorrow, hopefully the weather (and flu) clears up a little! Goodbye and arrivederci for now.