Italy....Venice.... Murano....

My first visit to Venice was in the summer of 1998, a carefree stop on a whirlwind Eurail adventure with friends. We were eager, and full of wanderlust, hopping from city to city with backpacks and boundless energy. I remember the magic of Venice then—the labyrinth of canals, the echoes of footsteps on cobblestone alleys, the salty breeze mingling with the aroma of espresso.

More than two decades later, I returned to Venice with my siblings—but this time, the journey carried a deeper meaning. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a continuation of a family tradition, a tribute to our parents’ memory, and a quiet celebration of the bonds that endure. 

We arrived at Marco Polo Airport on a bright autumn day. The air was crisp, with that golden clarity unique to fall. The sky, a soft shade of blue, mirrored the calm waters that awaited us. From the airport, we took the ferry to our hotel—an entrance to Venice as poetic as the city itself. As we glided through the lagoon, the familiar silhouettes of domes and bell towers appeared on the horizon, welcoming us back. 

This time, I took it slower. The city didn’t feel like a destination to be checked off a list, but rather a space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect. We wandered through the narrow streets, pausing often—not just to take photos, but to take it all in including the Venetian coffee and gelato!

St. Mark’s Square was as grand as ever. The basilica’s mosaics shimmered in the soft light, and the square buzzed with quiet wonder rather than hurried tourism. The pigeons still claimed their corners, and the sound of live music floated from nearby cafés.

One of the highlights of our trip to Venice was visiting the renowned Murano glass factory. Nestled on the small island of Murano, just a short boat ride from the city, the factory gave us an unforgettable glimpse into the centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking with remarkable speed and precision. The combination of fire, color, and craftsmanship was mesmerizing, and it gave us a deeper appreciation for the artistry and heritage behind Murano glass. Walking through the gallery of finished pieces felt like strolling through a museum of living art.

As we walked along the canals and crossed the arched bridges, memories of that first trip gently surfaced. But this visit added new layers—ones filled with gratitude, remembrance, and a sense of coming full circle.

Venice, with its timeless charm, reminded me that while much has changed over the years, the essence of discovery—whether of places, people, or memories—remains beautifully the same.

                                                                 PEACE ON EARTH

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