Venice

Venice was lovely. Lots of wonderful things to see, a great atmosphere and a great visit.  You don't necessarily need an excursion, as every time you cross a bridge or look left or right, there is something to see.  We spent six hours in the city on a baking hot day and were glad to get back in board the Aurora.  After much needed further liquid refreshment, I even needed a nap.  Then we were in one of the Jacuzzi's on Deck 12, when I had to explain to Pauli that the roof was retractable and no we weren't in our usual outdoor jacuzzi that is further along the ship.  Pauli was quite surprised, and commented that it was like being in the Millennium Stadium.  Ah bless, I see the subtle similarity, both have a roof that retracts, but this ship (unlike the 'Eclipse') doesn't have any grass.  Six to seven pm is a great time to do some sensible sun bathing.  And now after getting ready for dinner, I find myself in the 'Glass House' on Deck 8. Thankfully it's only a glass house in name, as that folks would be unbearable in this heat.

Tips

Here are some tips for you first time sea kayakers who intend to have a go on a forthcoming holiday: (1) buy a pair of cheap cycling gloves to help minimise getting sore hands, (2) wear sandals that have a buckle or Velcro strap to keep them on your feet if you fall into the sea [they will stop you getting sores and or bruising on the outside of the foot where you press into the foot holds on the kayak], (3) put sun cream everywhere, including your ankles and knee caps as the light bounces everywhere, (4) if there's two of you, snaffle the front seat as the seat back offers more support than the rear seat in the kayak, (5) don't wear anything that can't get wet, as people do fall in. I'm testament to item 5; indeed I fell in twice.  But hey ho, it was great fun, and when we got to swim in the Mediterranean during the kayaking rest break, for me it was my third time in the water :-)