Venice, Italy

I've always had a thing for Italy and never actually know why. There is just something about this country that made me so attracted to it. Thus, once I got to Venice I was awestruck. It was not only different from any other places I visited but it was just so appealing in so many ways.

Venice was definitely a lot smaller than I expected but simply being me, I still managed to get lost. It was like walking through a big maze, but incredible experience nonetheless. Other than taking the Grand Canals, I think the best way to really explore this city is to simply take a long walk and getting lost is definitely a perfect way to absorb the essence of Venice. Each street looks very similar yet different in its own ways. Small souvenirs carts, cute little boutiques, big brand name stores, local restaurants, cafes were all over the place and yes, tourists were everywhere. I personally really enjoyed shopping in Venice, especially around the Rialto Bridge because there were all sort of unique things you can buy. I mean, how often do you come across distinctive piece of jewellery, beautiful canal paintings, exquisite glasses and dazzling masks? 

Although it was pretty pricey and I wouldn't say that it was a remarkable experience, but going on the Gondola is just something that you got to do when you're in Venice. It actually took me to Marco Polo's house so that was pretty awesome :)

Only after a day in Venice, I realised that this city has so much more than their their beautiful canals and magnificent houses. Purely the history of this city on its own is beyond words could ever describe. It was fascinating that each house along the canals held so much history on itself. The art and architecture were divine, it was like stepping into a different era, into a different world. I visited a few places including the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), Piazza San Marco, St. Mark's Basilica, Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, Doge's Palace and many more and all of them didn't fail to impress me one bit. I'm not going to ramble through the history of Venice, because you can easily just google them :)

I went to see the opera and it was amazing although I didn't understand a thing :3 and I also woke up at 5am and went to the Fish Market at Mercato di Rialto! So go me!

While I was there, Manet exhibition was on and of course I couldn't miss it. The artist's works were so enchanting that you could easily feel the energy coming from all the paintings. Manet did not only focus on the facial expression of the subject but he also concentrated so much on the contrast of light and dark. Every object that appeared on his painting described the subject's personality.You could seriously feel the air of sadness and I would say that his works are paintings of touch. His works were very daring in so many aspects. He involved music and painting into one and his undefined brush stroke challenged the academic rule of Art.  I also got a chance to visit the Museo Correr where many famous art works from various artists such as I Bellini, Sala dell Quattro Porte and Pittori fiamminghi del XV secolo were exhibited. Unfortunately, I couldn't take photo for obvious reason, but I managed to snapped some photos of the exterior of the museum :)

I wouldn't say food in Venice disappointed me, but it wasn't as good as I thought it would be. Nevertheless, on my last night I went to Ristorante La Porta D'ACQUA and oh my god, their Pennette Aumma-Aumma was so good that I felt like slapping someone's face. Their pasta was cooked at the perfect temperature, the sauce was so rich and full and their cheese just melt into my mouth like a dream. It was literally the best pasta I have ever had. All the waiters were extremely friendly and they provided incredible service as well :) 

This city honestly took my breath away. It was a very romantic city in a way that you could feel the passion of eternity. Although there were tourists from all age, I noticed that most couples were at least in their 40s. It was romantic in a sense of maturity and everlasting. I seriously think that Venice is the city of love and I definitely won't come back here again without my "boyfriend" ;)

Venice is definitely one of those city that photo doesn't do justice. It was so charming beyond anyone's imagination. I had such an amazing time while I was there and I will surely come back again in the future. This city honestly advanced what I thought was beautiful to a whole new level.

❤