Streets of Water

25 May Streets of Water

“I will never forget experiencing Venice for the first time. It feels like you are transported to another time – the art, music, food and pure romance in the air is like no other place” (Elizabeth Barkley).

Several months back, I was thrift shopping for some decorations to hang in my house. I stumbled across a relatively cheap, very colorful print of some gondolas passing by some clearly European buildings. Without really knowing what it was a picture of, I bought it and put it on display in my living room. As I hung it, I remember absentmindedly looking back at my roommate behind me and telling her, “Yeah, I think it’s Venice. I’m pretty sure that’s the city with the boats.”

Having returned yesterday from the beautiful city that is Venice, I can confirm that yes, my print is in fact of this city. For having been found randomly in a bin of prints in a thrift store, it captures the essence of the city remarkably well.

Now, when I return to my house in Slippery Rock, I will inevitably see that painting and be brought back to the peaceful gondola ride I took through the Grand Canal in Venice. By the way, I think it’s important to mention that I came incredibly close to not going on the gondola ride at all. To be honest, I didn’t know how much I’d get out of it, but it made my entire day.

Prior to this ride, though, I was able to spend a few hours walking around this new city alone. I admired everything from the sound of the water softly sloshing against the sides of the canal to the heavenly scent of cooking food wafting from the water-side restaurants. Because I was alone I was able to take it all in at my very own pace.

I recommend this to anyone, especially on trips during which you’re consistently with the same group of people. There’s a certain beauty in discovering a new city while at the same time rediscovering yourself.