Dreams can come true. Even now a number of years after I bought Piccola Perla, I still feel a thrill at the prospect of this small jewel hidden away in Castello. Often I am asked why Venice? Well what is there to say. The most romantic city in the world, exquisite art. Fantastic history. Beautiful Italy. Anyone reading this will have their own preconceived ideas of Venice.
Fortunately the investment in the city has cleaned the canals and beaches on the Lido are blue flag. I find everyone is so helpful and friendly. The odd drama is always quickly rectified. It has been a learning curve owning a property abroad and the fun of sharing it. Never could I have imagined when I visited at twelve years old that one day I would live amongst such beauty.
Fortunately the investment in the city has cleaned the canals and beaches on the Lido are blue flag. I find everyone is so helpful and friendly. The odd drama is always quickly rectified. It has been a learning curve owning a property abroad and the fun of sharing it. Never could I have imagined when I visited at twelve years old that one day I would live amongst such beauty.
I first thought of Venice in 2003. It seemed time for a new adventure. I originally trained as a Fine Artist in Newcastle and Sunderland, then spent a number of years involved in restoring oriental rugs. This brought me to Gloucestershire where I have lived ever since. Over the past sixteen years I have been a Feng Shui consultant based in Cheltenham with my two now grown up daughters, Thea and Olivia and grandson Tom.
One of the fascinating aspects I find in Venice is the blend of oriental and Renaissance. The symbolism is everywhere and of course epitomized by Marco Polo. I also love the independence of Venice. Even the dogs hold their heads up high,and thats often wearing very silly hats. The Venetians adore their city, they ask "why go anywhere else?" with a shrug of shoulders and a bemused smile. I quite agree.
We can all have dreams , but it is rather wonderful to walk down the street to "Ciao Bella" kissed and encouraged to share a spritz bitte in a cafe. Everywhere there are concerts and exhibitions.
I still can't quite believe Carpaccio's paintings of George and the Dragon are next to my local supermarket.
The peace pervades, how gentle to have only the lapping of waves and no cars. The bells sound just as they would in medieval times. Yes I think finding Piccola Perla was perfect.
One of the fascinating aspects I find in Venice is the blend of oriental and Renaissance. The symbolism is everywhere and of course epitomized by Marco Polo. I also love the independence of Venice. Even the dogs hold their heads up high,and thats often wearing very silly hats. The Venetians adore their city, they ask "why go anywhere else?" with a shrug of shoulders and a bemused smile. I quite agree.
We can all have dreams , but it is rather wonderful to walk down the street to "Ciao Bella" kissed and encouraged to share a spritz bitte in a cafe. Everywhere there are concerts and exhibitions.
I still can't quite believe Carpaccio's paintings of George and the Dragon are next to my local supermarket.
The peace pervades, how gentle to have only the lapping of waves and no cars. The bells sound just as they would in medieval times. Yes I think finding Piccola Perla was perfect.