keep up with traffic..... and other Venice, Italy Local Custom Tips

stay on your right while walking, and don't stop suddenly to window 'gawk'. Above all, don't stand outside a shop, in the middle of the walk, and expect others to walk around you. Be courteous. Mothers with strollers, don't use that four wheeled weapon to part the crowds, if you fail to succeed, well.....think about it.

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We have gone with friends to Venice, and found very quickly that walking together as a group is difficult to manage, plus we are a nuisance to other travellers trying to pass us.

This would be especially annoying to local people who have jobs to attend to, appointments to make, and dinners to prepare, while we are on our own relaxed schedule.

Therefore, go as a group, but separate and meet later. This way, you can swap tall tales, and thus double your enjoyment of a wonderful visit.

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Feeding the pigeons in Venice is against the law, and carries a fine of 517 euro.

The exception to this law would be within the area around St. Marks Square.

I personally feel this law is 'FOR THE BIRDS'.

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I found this to be the most overlooked regulation in Venice, and rightfully so...

However, it also allows me to understand why shop keepers constantly chase away young kids playing soccer in the little piazzas near their establishments. It is an unlawful act. Who knew?

Since learning of this 'law', I have deflated Ma Kettles soccer ball, and have hidden it in the dark recesses of our terribly overcrowded closet. Suggest you carefully peruse the contents of your significant others suitcase in case he /she is carrying contraband, and do the same.

The use of skateboards, roller skates, roller blades, and bicycles is forbidden.

I feel for these poor juvenile delinquents who are forced to lead an early lifetime of crime, always on the lookout for the 'fun' police.

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Did you know you could be fined for going 'topless' in Venice, male or female.

Aside from obvious reasons, I think this is a good thing. There aren't many sights as distasteful as seeing Pa Kettle without a shirt. Wouldn't want you to lose your lunch while eating a slice of pizza... heaven forbid I might become part of a group photo in St. Marks Square.

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This is the only way of transporting goods to the various stores or restaurants in Venice.

Everything has to be loaded on board by hand, then off-loaded by hand when the shipment reaches it's destination. Plus, the cargo capacity is much less than an average truck, therefore more trips are required.

All this additional handling, gas consumption and wear and tear on equipment and staff drive the prices up for all goods and services a tourist consumes during their stay in Venice.

I think it is something we should remember when we start quibbling about the high price of food and drink. Try buying a soft drink around the Duomo in Florence...average price 3.30 euro.

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My first thought was they were Coast Guard, then I realized that these guys help to control smuggling, as well as keep watch over taxable goods.

Strange thing though, I have never seen one away from it's mooring...

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I just saw this sign, and since you don't often find English signs in Italy, let alone Venice, thought I'd record it, for...whatever reason.

This was in the train station, standing against the wall.

Please, no ratings. This helps no one in any way.

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When walking about Venice with a few chums, refrain from talking loudly or singing. I know you are having fun, possibly had a couple of drinks, but sound really travels in this city.

Due to the cement and brick, any noise echoes, and is greatly magnified. I get most embarrased when I hear English voices raised to high levels. North Americans are generally loud (er) to begin with, but please, lets show restraint. People live here, babies are trying to sleep, and others may not hear the punch line on Italian TV.

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