Venice: A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Our initial five-day Venetian escapade left us yearning for more; we had merely glimpsed the city's surface. In a burst of spontaneity, we hopped online the morning of our departure, serendipitously prolonging our stay for another week. Venice, you are a gift that keeps on giving.

With check-out from our first Airbnb complete, we were eager to experience a fresh perspective. We settled into a new abode overlooking the Grand Canal, an idyllic setup that allowed us to revel in the maritime bustle and a continuous parade of awestruck visitors.

This Airbnb, nestled just a whisper away from essentials, let us indulge in the charms of the local deli – wines, prosciutto, cheeses – and the daily freshness of the floating vegetable market. Here was the heart of Venice, laid out before us, perfect for soaking in the city's rhythm.

Of course, we strolled across to Piazza San Marco for a little indulgent retail therapy. We found ourselves in the welcoming embrace of D&G's staff at their majestic boutique housed within the 19th-century Palazzo Torres. Their stylistic prowess gently nudged us just beyond our comfort zones – an enthralling experience. We were honoured with an exclusive tour, marvelling at the private couture collection housed in the palace's original quarters – a treasure trove of bespoke elegance. Thank you, D&G.

Retail escapades behind us, we veered off the beaten tourist paths towards Estro, a Michelin-recommended culinary gem, with a pitstop at Osteria Ai Pugni. Urged by friends, this local wine bar enchanted us with its vibe and exceptional negronis—a true local haunt. Dinner at Estro was a symphony of flavour, with innovative dishes and superb wines from Mt Etna gracing our table.

To cap the evening, we returned to Ai Pugni for a twilight libation, immersing ourselves in the local scene against the canal's silhouette and the vanishing sun. The staff were full of positive energy, and we promised to be back.

We strolled home with a bounce in our step and a newfound love for Venice, feeling again it wasn't yet time to leave, but it was time to return to our beloved Belgrade and busy making plans on when we could return to continue unwrapping the layers of this floating city.

The journey to the airport was quintessentially Venetian—a private water taxi directly from our Airbnb. Gliding through the canals at sunrise, we bade Venice goodbye, a city farewell tour from the water.

Arriving at the airport by boat, we felt a flutter of excitement at the novelty, grateful for the simplicity of travelling light.

Amidst the airport bustle, we savoured one last Italian coffee partnered with a celebratory morning prosecco, reflecting on our ten exquisite days in the City of Canals.