There's nothing better than a stroll along an old river and there's no river more French than the Seine. This famous waterway has shown up in countless art pieces, cinema, writing, and more. In older times, civilizations thrived and fell based on waterways. Undoubtedly the Seine lent to Paris' trade and commerce.
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Shakespeare & Company is a literary mecca for fans of American literature on the other side of the Atlantic. Located just a stone's throw from the iconic Notre-Dame cathedral, the bookstore was founded by an American, George Whitman. Greats like Allen Ginsberg, Anaïs Nin, Henry Miller, and James Baldwin were among early visitors to the shop.
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An architectural wonder, this white and pink building is almost decadent. The white washed bricks, faded facade, and gothic architectre is still marvelous against blue skies. The Doge's Palace was once the epicenter of Venetian political power. This palace once served as the Doge's residence, who was the highest power in the past Republic of Venice. Today, it serves as a museum and a relic to the past.
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Gondolas are long, flat bottomed boats propelled by a single rower in the back with one oar. For a long time, these boats were the most common mode of transportation in Venice and flooded the city's canals. Today, the boats are primarily used to service tourists at fixed rates. You can't think Venice without thinking about gondolas.
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What can be said about the Grand Canal in words? The colorful buildings and aqua green waters are much better captured in photos. Rich and noble families spent their wealth on decorating the back of their palazzos or palaces. A lot of these touches are maintained to this day, giving you a picturesque view as you cruise down the canal. Docks and piers extend into the canal from some of these palaces. Many palaces today are repurposed as museums, hotels, restaurants, etc. Few still serve as private residences.
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The Piazza di San Marco or St. Mark's Square served as a gathering space for social, religious and political gatherings. Today, the square is lined with expensive restaurants, overpriced takeaway eateries, museums, and other small shops. It remains a gathering place for merchants and tourists.
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Stand at Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) and peer across the turquoise waters. A bell tower stands tall, just behind a white church. Remember the quest? Always seek a place that offers a new vantage point, preferably with a birdseye view of the city. There is no better way to know a city.
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The gondolas pass under and all gaze in awe at the ornate structure above them. The white is startling against the blue skies. It is equally jarring against cloudy gray skies, also taking on a gray undertone. Visitors praise the beauty and romance. The Bridge of Sighs is a white limestone bridge that connects the prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace.
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