The Allure of Venice After Dark

 

It was the first time that I went to Venice at night, and it was not intentional. I just lost my way just pushing along with a half melted gelato and a map that resembled a puzzle rather than a guide.

 But to lose one in Venice, is nearly a pleasant command and, later in the evening, the city began to change softly around me. After the crowds had swept off, Venice appeared to be relieved. The canals became calm and black, with the small lights of the balconies warping to the stars.

 I happened to be on a little bridge where the only thing heard was the gentle wave of the water on the boats, and my own footsteps as they bounced off the walls.

 Side note: If you are travelling for a short period then you can book meet and greet at Luton.

 I felt I was being permitted in a personal entry, by an open door in the city, in that moment, revealing a side of the city that is known only by the exhaustion of the day.

As I went further into the silence I came to a small bar that was lit indoors. Three elderly men were talking to the bartender and their laughter spread to the night.

 One of them lifted his glass at me, and it was his sign of quick simple gratitude, and I felt as though I were a welcomed guest in the neighborhood of some one rather than another visitor who has to pass by.

 As I entered the square at St. Mark they had changed tremendously. The pandemonium of the day was gone.

 Couples wandered aimlessly over the open area and musicians played leisurely in the old cafes without the need to hurry in playing their songs. To remain in that warm golden light I sat down to have an espresso which I certainly did not require.

 My best recollection was at a late vaporetto ride by the Grand Canal. The palaces were silent and almost dreamy and the cool breeze was like the city murmuring its secrets.