We signed up for a UT Flying Longhorns trip to an agriturismo in northern Italy presented by Orbridge starting June 13, 2015 with an extension to Venice. We flew in early on June 4th via United (great service, by the way) to Venice, staying the arrival night (a late afternoon arrival) in the outlying area of Venice at the Titian Hotel. The next morning we took a train from Venice to Verona and rented a car for the rest of the “on our own” portion of the trip. Rental in Verona was chosen because that’s where we would meet the UT group.

At the end of a great tour, Taste of Northern Italy, we went with two other couples, Sue and David and Lucy and Jim to a three-day extension in Venice. Living in a coastal community (Rockport Texas), we really appreciate the issues the Venetians (Venetians first, Italians second) are facing with the rising waters. Chiara took us to Venice via train and by water taxi to our hotel just off the Grand Canal, the Pensione Accademia. It’s a grand place, a converted private residence, and offers great service and a very good breakfast. But be careful of the “free” trip to Murano that may be offered by the concierge – it includes obligatory tours of higher-priced glass factories. If you buy a one-day water bus pass (20 euros,) the island is included on the route and there are some great low-priced small shops with spectacular products. The first two days we had Cynthia as a guide – great guide as she provided us with clear and entertaining information. Sue, David, Lucy and Jim were great traveling companions and we really enjoyed sightseeing and dining with them.