There's only one way into Venice, and that is by boat. So, our bus dropped us at the terminal and off we went to our watercraft to take us into Venice. While this part of the trip isn't intended to be a scenic tour, there was no shortage of sites to see as we toured our way in. That had all of the guys gazing outward to get their views and pictures.
Our trip over on the boat also provided the perfect opportunity to give you a face to put to the oft-referred-to name ... Fabio. When he is talking to us on the bus, it's hard to get a good shot. And, when we are touring around, he is often in the background trying to make sure no one gets lost. But on the boat over, Fabio took the mic to tell us all about what we would be seeing, and thus we got the perfect shot.
There's always time for a team photo on these stops, this time right along the waterfront as we get the day underway.
One of the first things we did as a full group was to get a glass blowing demonstration, as Venice is well known for its glass. The demonstration was truly remarkable, with the whole process of creating a glass statue taking mere moments. As you can see, the team was mesmerized by the process. Admittedly most everything in the store was a little pricey for this group, but it was very kind of them to let us see the demonstration.
There was also a full group walking tour of the main square and Cathedral. But there was also plenty of time for wandering. Of course, Venice means boats and canals.
Some of the players also decided to use some of their time to ride one of the famous gondolas. But we didn't let them take the first boat so we could get this picture of them waiting patiently. (And see Fabio hanging in the background so no one is left behind).
The team also enjoyed dinner along the water in Venice. The menu was seafood this time, appropriate for the region. The seafood salad included octopus, and it seemed like most everyone tried it. The seafood risotto was a favorite. And, how can you go wrong with fried shrimp and fried calamari?
After dinner was complete, it was time to head back to the bus. So, yes, it meant another boat ride. This time, everyone loaded into three water taxis to get the true scenic ride back out the main canal. This 30-40 minute ride was the perfect way to wrap up the day.
Monday led the Panthers back on the road, this time with a rather lengthy four-hour drive from Venice to Como via Milan. There was another snack and restroom stop at the AutoGrill, and the movie choice was Alexander The Great. But I think sleep was in order for some of the trip, too, knowing a game awaited.
There was some time in Como Monday afternoon for eating and wandering, but the main day of touring comes Tuesday. There's a boat tour, a stop at Bellagio and then an afternoon for everyone to explore on their own. The final team meal of the trip is also tomorrow night, and the trip home begins very, very early Wednesday morning.
