After taking in the sights, we began the 20 minute walk to our hotel, feeling confident, as this time we had google maps AND we knew to look for street names on the sides of buildings.

But then it happened: another roadblock, as we circled and wandered in search of our hotel. Even with google maps and asking strangers, it took us more than double the time. \240Partly because the street was not labeled, and partly because of their nondescript sign. Here is a snapshot of their website:

We were looking for something that said Eurostars. Makes sense - right? But here is their entrance:

Notice no where does it say Eurostars, on their only, small sign, that’s up high. \240😐

But the biggest challenge was the streets of Venice. We later learned on our tour that Venice is comprised of over 140 tiny islands, that are now connected through bridges. Small walking bridges are everywhere. Often, you can see 3-4 bridges before you, that seemingly would get you to the same general area, but they do not.

The Venetians like to tell visitors to have fun getting lost in their lovely city, but we can tell you, as beautiful as it is, getting lost there is not fun.

And it’s not like you can call a taxi because there are NO cars in Venice - none! Imagine how hard it must be to shop for groceries, much less buy a piece of furniture or move!

Anyway, we finally bumped into someone who was staying at our hotel and kindly showed us the way. After resting, we ventured out and the night was saved by a delicious Italian dinner:

Followed by a simply lovely gondola ride.

The gondola ride was just what we needed. Afterward, we wandered a bit more and found a small bakery, where we tried delicious macarons.

We managed to find our way back and collapsed into bed, for some much needed rest before our full day tour in the morning.....

And with the satisfaction that although we’ve been challenged, we’ve been able to handle them.

But here’s hoping the roadblocks are done...at least for a while. 🤞