Well, we have been on the move for the past 17 hours.
As far as travel days go this has been uneventful. The usual crazed limo driver broke at least 5 traffic laws (I closed my eyes and hung on at that point) as he raced to get us to the airport. Of course we showed up three hours before the flight.
Passes to the lounge in hand, we were well prepared to wait it out
Oddly the phone rang whilst going through security. It was AMEX with a fraud inquiry. Tempted to lose it, I reminded them that I had called and said in was traveling so an Air France charge shouldn't be unexpected. The nice young lady apologized profusely and we were done.
Nothing bizarre on the plane either. We appreciated both champagne and wine with dinner. We appreciated that the guy beside moved giving us an entire row to ourselves!
We did not appreciate the kid behind me who seemed to alternate between kicking the back of my seat and commenting on every odd sound in a loud voice. "that was a flap not moving properly . It will impact the flow of air. we may crash!"
After 2 hours of that I yearned for adult only flights.
We had a tight connection in Paris but with a combination of our Toronto plane being early and me knowing where I was going we were through customs, security, and at the gate with 65 minutes to spare!
The flight to Venice was short - just enough for a cat nap.
It landed short and the pilot had to slam the brakes on. A bunch of unsecured electronics flew to the floor and slid forward. One guy's iPad went completely down the centre aisle!
I will never refuse to stow my stuff for landing again.
It is cold in Venice. They had snow this morning but it is turning into rain. We splurged and took our own water taxi to the hotel. Generally we arrive by train but the water taxi was brilliant.
We're at the Abbazia again. I know - who stays in that neighbourhood???? We do! It is one of the few hotels that can be reached easily on foot with luggage. No canal to be crossed with luggage, no stairs to climb. Convenience wins - plus we love the staff!
Our room was ready. Paolo is snoring and I am using the free wifi.
I wonder what adventures await later today?
I am following right along.
I also stay at the Abbazia. It is a great location ...
Did you try Shannon's 'Ae Oche' for pizza?
Posted by: sandi @the whistlestop cafe | December 14, 2012 at 09:32 AM
Yay, you made it! Sounds like as easy as a long trip can be. Your hotel room looks lovely.
Posted by: Susie L | December 14, 2012 at 09:49 AM
Have a wonderful vacation!!!
Posted by: Cindy Ruth | December 14, 2012 at 11:06 AM
Congratulations to Paul on the new job - great news at the beginning of your vacation. Have a wonderful holiday, how could you not, in Italy with Palma & Brad.
Posted by: Sheena | December 14, 2012 at 11:44 AM
We were happy we didn't end up in your closet Sandi!
It was a great room Susie. We've been here three times now. I think next time we'll look at a rental for a longer stay.
Thanks Cindy!
It was a brilliant start to the vacation for Paul Sheena.
Posted by: JDeQ | January 30, 2013 at 08:56 AM