Today we are in Vienna - a big jump from last log. We arrived in Venice and took a boat to the main area, then we went around the canals in gondolas being serenaded all the way. It was an interesting way to be introduced to the city. The steps and doorways were being lapped by water, and people were watching and listening from all the bridges. Later we visited St Mark's Square where we sat and enjoyed a drink while a group were playing and the evening came in and the lights came on. It was so peaceful and relaxing. We returned to our hotel by water taxi and a trip all around the Grand Canal. I would have liked to know which buildings and bridges were which but it a pleasant trip. Next day we walked around the back areas where the people live and saw the different districts - Greek, Malttese etc. We visited the basilica of St Mark to admire the mosaic ceilings and wall panels. It is amazing that there is such detail created with mosaics and gold. Gold everywhere. Then we went to a Murano glassblowing showroom on Guidecca island. They blew a vase and a horse, but used the same method as we did in Skagway, Alaska. We could then buy things if we wished. I enjoyed looking at all the different products, from jewellery, bowls, plates, ornaments to hugh chandeliers. They glass ware was quite beautiful and is supposed to be hard so doesn't break easily. We then went out to Burano Island where all the houses are painted a different colour - great photos, and they made lace by hand. A couple of ladies were making it while we were there. Yesterday we drove to Vienna and into the rain. It was quite hot in Spain and Italy but now we are back into the rain. Last evening we went to a restaurant here and were greeted as long lost friends with all the staff out in the road and a red carpet rolled out. The restaurant is full of antiques and collectables, so many that you have to duck to avoid hitting your head. There were things hanging everywhere, including the toilets where the wall were covered with pictures of naked men! (women in the men's we were told). This morning we have visited Schonbrunn palace, a magnificent palace of the royal family (Happsburgs). The rooms are amazing, so much lavishness. Frescos, gold, tapestries and ornate furnishings. The gardens out the back were beautifully laid out and colourful. I am planning to visit the museum of applied arts this afternoon - ceramics, mosaics etc. then tomorrow we will visit Salzburg on the way to Munich.