Up at about quarter past seven. As I had feared, the trains did keep me awake to a certain extent, but not too much. However, up to now I keep waking up after about three hours good sleep and spend the rest of the time just dozing.
It is a misty, grey morning but not too cold. While I was stirring my tea I noticed something very interesting. One of the forks we had brought with us had the Nazi swastika stamped on it. Allan says they turn up in Jersey from time to time. After all, the Germans occupied the Channel Islands for five years so I suppose it figures. Breakfast on baked beans and sausages – out of the same can I had used last night – washed of course! While we were packing, a chap with dogs and a gun passed the tent. He seemed quite friendly so I suppose we didn’t tread on any toes by camping here last night. So far we have found the Italians to be very friendly and helpful – quite unlike the ones we get in Jersey!
On the road at nine thirty. I have just seen my first orange tree bearing real oranges! We are passing by the shores of Lake Garda now. Unfortunately it is shrouded in mist, making it useless for photographs and we see no point in stopping. The next town, unless we go onto the autostrada will be Verona, Shakespeare’s “Two Gentlemen of Verona.”
We are going onto the autostrada so we should have a straight run through to Venice. The sun is out now and we’re feeling good. Came off the autostrada for repairs (not noted) and passed through Vicenza. We seem to be passing along the edge of town so we could not judge what it is like. Back onto the Autostrada any minute now. The weather has turned cloudy again.
12.30 pm. We have just reached our camp site in Venice. By now, the sun is shining beautifully. It is so warm I am able to strip to the waist while helping to pitch the tent.
1.30 pm. We are setting off to explore Venice.
Later: It is evening now and we’re back in camp where I’ll try to describe Venice.
I think my first impression was that the houses bordering the canals seem poverty stricken and in need of a coat of paint. In their present state they give only a hint of Venice’s past glories. All the palaces and churches look as though they are falling apart and there is no apparant effort to righten matters. On the human side, one gets the feeling that the locals appear to be intent on getting as much out of the tourists (us included) as possible before the whole city slides into the sea. It was a beautiful afternoon when we were there so none of these impressions can be put down to bad weather depression. The romantic gondolas were also suffering from the same malady, in need of a coat of paint. Their owners, the gondoliers charge exhorbitant prices, bringing them into line with the rest of the city.
The canals? Well, they do smell which only serves to confirm an opinion I have heard expressed many times. I do not want anyone to think I am criticising for the sake of it. I am not. Merely trying to express an opinion as to how we Saw it. On the other hand, it is romantic and I would certainly come again. The Ducal Palace, the Square of Marco Polo, the Church of St. Mark are still beautiful and the view from the top of the belltower is breathtaking. Age and dirt have not completely robbed Venice of their former glory, the richness of the Borgias and their contempories. Even now this is still apparent after half a millenium.
Allan says he would never come again, seeing Venice as a mere novelty. But is that not the modern man’s never ending quest to find something different?
We ended our tour of the city by a trip in a “water bus” during the “rush hour.” Some rush! In all, to understate – a very interesting afternoon.
Back in camp we have just finished dinner – steak and kidney pie again. But this time, I eat from a plate. I have finally remembered to buy one. Buttered rolls, cheese and pickles, a glass of Chianti followed by a cup of tea make up a very fine meal indeed.
I don’t think we will be going out again tonight for two reasons. Money is one and I- have a letter and cards to write. Whether or not I shall get to write, I don’t know. My eyes are getting tired enough even writing this diary.
Later: I managed it alright, although at a slight cost to my eyes. Nothing much more to report. We’re turning in at 9.30, dressed like Arctic explorers. Pullover and socks over our pyjamas for the night has turned quite cold. Still, we’re not complaining. Another cup of tea and then bed. Goodnight.
P.S. Historical point: Venice was founded by the early Christians who formed a stronghold on the island as a defence against the barbarians.
Speedo reading: 14504. 124 mls. (960)
