Day 8 and 9

We have woken up to beautiful Venice - it is a little overcast and may shower later today. We have a tour planned for this morning exploring the main cites of Venice followed by a gondola ride. Anthony and Jermaine will be celebrating their 17th wedding anniversary on a love gondola, which was far from romantic - they couldn't wait to get off as it pelted down with rain. Anthony was ducking for cover under his jacket at one end of the gondola, whilst Jermaine was under her umbrella at the other end. They hopped off the gondola like there was no tomorrow.

I somehow got a new nick name today all due to wearing a blue poncho - they called me Papa Smurf (check the photo out and you will see why). After our gondola ride, we then decided to change our plans due to the rain and do an indoor tour - we went to the "Doge Palace" - the history and wealth was amazing!!!!!! It was known as the headquarters of the city where they made major decisions, people were judged and imprisoned. I will let the photos paint a thousand words for you - check them out. We then had lunch and continued to absorb the streets of Venice. We are to soon make our way to the train station to catch the train to Austria where we will sleep on the train overnight - what an experience - we are so lucky??? (I will let you know tomorrow). As well as being excited to go to a new country it is also a sad moment for us as we not only are leaving Italy, we are leaving our beautiful, most helpful, accommodating and understanding tour guide Tiziana. In appreciation for her kind services, this afternoon, we presented Tiziana with an Italian soccer jersey - of her favourite Italian soccer team (she is a very passionate supporter). Thank you so much Tiziana, you were our saving grace on many occasions - we will always remember you. We have formed a wonderful friendship and will try to keep in contact. Tiziana for one last time - "what are we doing next?" and "where are the toilets?"