Gondola builders must practice for several years before being able to start building gondola as each gondola is built to suit the individual gondolier's weight.

Since when I temporarily relocated back in Venice I have been somehow photographically fascinated by the "Big Cruises". At the same time being very much against them I have followed all the protests No Big Ship, from the very first one at Punta della Dogana Like most of my Venetian colleagues, (them for longer then me) I shot them often following this story. I have taken pictures of them with my Leica, DSLR, one of my Fujis, Rollei, Mamiya, Olga etc etc.

The name Murazzi indicates a part of the Lido coast, a non-sandy beach. The rocks and dams characterising this beach were put there to create a barrier against the advancing sea waters. It is a beach which is neither full of tourists nor full of Venetians. You can spend a day there in total peace, surrounded by nature. The only noise you will hear will be the waves breaking on the rocks. Another strength: there is no sand, only rocks. There are no particular activities in particular, except relaxing, sunbathing and good swimming. Also in autumn it is a nice place for a relaxing and peaceful walk.

The Toscano cigar is the original Italian cigar, manufactured in Lucca and founded in 1818 by the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The cigar is made with top fermented Kentucky tobacco with some of the top types are still rolled by hand.