Hotel Locanda Ovidius' view of the Grande Canal and the infamous Rialto Bridge is stunning and breath-taking. I'd look at so many photos on the internet, and actually CHOSE this view. Believe me when I say that I felt as if I had just walked into a travel guide. This is a small hotel with just a few rooms, and only two rooms face the canal. I was here in late November, and as you can see by the flowers, it was still mild. When locating a hotel before my trip I searched far and wide for one that met my requirements - it had to be on the Grande, and reasonably priced. The Ovidius met both requirements - our accomodations were great and it was approximately 350,000 ITL. I emailed with Lucia at the hotel several times and she was most helpful and kind. She apologized for her English more than once, which I thought was quite good! I noticed throughout Italy that many people speak English, however, they tend to apologize if it's not "perfect." Their English was better than MY Italian, and I should have been the one to apologize! Venezia's transportation system consists of water buses, taxis, and private taxis. Private transportation costs quite a bit more than regular taxis, but the ride is well worth it. Another option is gondolas, however, typically it will cost about 50.00 - 60.00 USD for a 30-45 minute ride. I found it well worth the money!
Right - another beautiful view.
Both taken from Hotel Locanda Ovidius
Another caution - Initially I went through a few travel agents on the Internet for pricing and location - Anyone who plans to travel to this gorgeous city, and wants accomodations on the Grande, I strongly suggest they do a lot of research - Three internet travel agents assured me that the hotels I inquired with them about were indeed on the Grande. I decided to email the hotels directly and was promptly told "We have NO rooms on the Grande, or ANY canal, for that matter!" Unfortunately, it's "buyer beware" on the internet sometimes. If your requirments are important to you and you don't want to arrive and find immediate disappointment, do yourself a kindness and verify your needs before you depart for this incredible historic city...
I collect wall masks and added these to my current collection from Greece, China, Puru, Mexico, and the U.S. I found them at a vendor on the street, and paid approximately 92.00 USD for each. They are handcrafted, signed and dated on the inside by the local artist.
Of course I tried them on, and they fit nicely!
On the cheeks and chin are musical notes. On his right forehead you can easily see a painting of a man in carnival "garb" and mouth mask.
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