We arrived in Bellissima Venezia…Finally! After all that waiting in Frankfurt, we were in Venice.

No immigration processing in Venice, since we’d done it in Frankfurt (the Polizei who processed me explained that once you’re in the EU, you’re good). Our one checked suitcase was on the carousel as we arrived, and our driver stood holding a sign with our name on it. He drove us a short way to our water taxi.

What an experience! A smallish boat with wood trim, an enclosed, glassed-in cabin, with a roofless sofa area in the rear.

After a choppy ride through the lagoon, the boat slowed as we entered the Grand Canal, and we stood for the rest of the ride.

We rode past busy al fresco restaurants…

And then, just before the dock leading to our hotel…

What a truly spectacular welcome to our stay in Venice!