My thoughts turn to Italy’s recovery as I recall last years trip to Venice, Turin and the Cinque Terre, all areas massively impacted by the C-19 pandemic. The colour and vibrance of our pictures embodies the nature of the people, of their towns and their communities.
It is thought that the warmth and tactile nature of the Italian welcome contributed to the speed of the spread of the epidemic and the close narrow streets that we delighted strolling through were no barrier to the killer disease.
Sitting in an outdoor cafe sipping San Pellegrino; sparkling water from the worst hit area of Bergamo (or coffee, wine or beer), on a warm spring day, is a far cry from the reports of so many losses and total lockdown. However, Italy will be back! Victims to the economic crash of 2008, Italy was almost back to its best 10 years later and tourism was slowly building up their economy.
Venice was hard hit by the virus and by extensive flooding after the highest tides and highest rainfall they had experienced in over a century, flooded St Marks Square and tipped the Gondola’s onto the quayside, much to the dismay of this water based community.
If I were planning a European trip, I’d be booking now for the Autumn of 2020, to visit these wonderful places and to experience Italian hospitality. Prices will be low at the moment and independent travellers can make best use of public water transport (Vaporetto)(Venice) and the network of trains that service the rest of the country.
A flight into Marco Polo airport then a private water taxi to your destination (slightly more expensive option) is one of the most exciting “first experience” things I have ever done.
TIP 1: stay in Lido, a sand bank just 10 minutes away from Venice and a lot cheaper than the town.
TIP2: a 6-day pass on the Vaporetto is good value for money and let’s you visit Murano and Burano Islands, each with their own unique charm.
NOTE: be careful you get on the right water bus (Vaporetto), there are two operators and if you’re on the wrong one with the wrong ticket, a hefty fine of €60 will be issued and there is no getting away from the Carabinieri!