St. Patty's Day in Venice

I made it to Venice, planted my feet on Italy's ground, and enjoyed the sights, sounds, and colors of Venice.

Performance art a major event in Venice and other locations. This mermaid seemed one of the most creative I have seen.

During my gondola ride I decided to take a photo of the gondola passing us. I liked it a lot. So here it is for you.

The one thing I wanted to see in Venice. The winged Lion. Let me know if you know the folklore behind it.

Night time was one of my favorite parts of Venice. Wish I could have had more time out, but travel continues.

O.k. I know it's not the typical/traditional idea for St. Patrick's Day, but Venice was amazing nonetheless. The Journey began at 5:30 am, when I arrived at the bus stop very tired and thinking I must be crazy. With a late bus start the journey began with two stops and then a wait to get on the boat to Venice. Upon arrival we walked into San Marco square. We being me, Jo, Helen, and Haley (sorry if I misspelled anyones name). We followed the many tourists to the many pigeons, and explored the wonders of Venice. Had a lady look at me disapprovingly as I rode a lion like a little kid. Had a nice heated wrap/sandwich sitting on the cement in San Marco square. Then proceed to laugh at the first gondoler that offered a journey for 65 Euros each. Upon walking two steps we were offered a lower price, four more steps and a fourth gondoler and we were on the canals of Venice. Shopping and a nice dinner followed along with an amazing boat ride back upon the roof of the boat. The sea breeze upon our faces and the vibrant colors of Venice fading behind us.

Extra Photo's Venice

Here is one of my first sights of Venice from the boat window. It was nicer coming back at night with all the lights and the cool sea air.

Cathedral @ San Marco Square

Lady looking disapprovingly of me having fun in San Marco Square.

Gondolers! Always remember not to take the first price offered they will keep offering lower prices.

Fluffy Spotted in Hof Garten

Yes it is true people: Fluffy the three headed dog of Hagrid's has been spotted in Hof Garten. He has been spending time in the Garten with future chess champions and enjoying the sun. So far I do not think he has bitten a child yet, but who knows what will happen. Again, Fluffy has been spotted in Hof Garten.

Ich bin allein hier

Here I am at St. Jakob's Dom

Here I am in Hof Garten relaxing

This is (what I think it is I should say) a pillar for St. Mary

Today is the first day that, even with my wonder of the beautiful sunny city of Innsbruck, I feel a bit alone. I wish so many of you where here to share in this experience--and to keep me company. German courses are a bit of a struggle, but new words keep popping into my brain. Street signs and shop signs are making more sense.

Today I spent most of my time in Hof Garten, then I went to a cafe and had lunch. To go out to eat here is very expensive, but every now and then you need to splurge. I had Sachartorte for the first time (basically a delicious chocolate cake). Then it was off to buy a few groceries only to have to make people wait in line while my credit card was run. Everything it seems is done in cash transactions and it is a bit frustrating.

Still have no idea what I am going to do for the two weeks I have off for Easter, so if anyone has an idea let me know soon. Well, class is about to begin and I need to get there, so I will write more later.