Gondolas, pick-pockets, shady waiters, oh my

After breakfast, albeit late, we left to take a boat ride.  Our gondolier claimed to be 5th generation and one of the best in Venice.  Plus he even had a sign stating "Servicio Gondelire"  so he must have been official.  He sang a lot and was quick to point out landmarks.

The gondola has one oar, usually used on the right rear of the boat.  One oar on one side means paddling in a circle. To correct for this, it is designed with a listing to the right.  I was surprised he seated me on the right side of the gondola.  Okay, slightly panicked!  I was afraid my friend Wiederholt 's prediction of a swim was at hand.  But hey, he had a sign so he must know what he is doing!   He did.  He piloted the boat with great expertise, both on the Grand Canal and the narrow neighborhood canals.  He came within inches of moorings, boats, bridges, and walls; yet never a bump.  We were often photographed while on the gondola.  No wonder famous people hate free lancers.  It was actually a great experience.  Vic loved it!

Next we went shopping in the Rialto bridge area.  There were two men and a woman standing next to us as I was folding up the map.  Not lost, just unknowing of our whereabouts.  Another man walked up with a folded newspaper, raised it slightly, and greeted the folks next to us.   I saw one of the men casually reach into the newspaper and retrieve a wallet.  Aye carrumba, a pick-pocket crew!  No one shouted out they had been robbed and there were no cops anywhere to be seen.  I told Vic we needed to get moving while I still had my wallet in my pocket.

We stopped at a trattoria for lunch.  The home style food and vino del casa was quite good.  When our waiter brought us the check he informed us he had hand written in a 3 Euro charge on the computer generated check for us sitting outside.  He said normally it would be 6 Euros, but for us...a special deal!  What could we do?  We are special!

We returned to the hotel and spent the remainder of the day talking to other guests and people passing by on the other side of the canal.  We met several Danish people today and while on the Camino last year.  I am now convinced that Danes are the happiest and friendliest people in Europe.

We leave for Pedova tomorrow.  Till then: