Last night just as we were going to bed, a strong smell of what I now know was ammonia filled the room. Thinking that it came from the air-conditioner, we switched it off and opened the windows ands eventually the smell cleared sufficiently to allow us to sleep without our eyes watering. After twice reporting to reception this morning that we had a problem, a helpful technician turned up and explained that since the air conditioner in the room operates on chilled water, that couldn't be the problem. But, yes, there was a smell of ammonia – coming from the mini-bar fridge (obviously the refrigerant was leaking). Fridge removed, and problem solved!
So, after a fairly slow start to the day. We headed off to Murano, home of the Venetian glass industry. Yes, there were some touristy aspects, but all very worthwhile. Modern Venetian glass is really a form of art, and so there are many studios of individual artists who each have there own style, including a lot of contemporary work. Murano is quite pleasant, and we had a relaxed lunch in a small plaza, and walked around some of the quieter parts of the town. We were fascinated to see how the speed limits on the water around Venice are enforced – by speed camera! Two police officers were manning a radar device and a camera with a telephoto lens! Not sure how they collect the fines, but no doubt the Italians have their ways!
For dinner, we headed down to St Marks Square, and had a meal in one of the side streets. After dinner we were entertained by the various orchestras provided by the restaurants on the square itself, then headed for the waterbus to take us back to our hotel. Opur last Grand Canal trip was slightly marred by the crowded waterbus – like us, other tourists find the idea of an evening trip down the Grand Canal in the evening to be enticing!
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