Travel & Tourism, Hobbies
Bangkok, Thailand to Venice, Italy
Date: April 2025
Flight: Courtesy of EMIRATES – our favorite airline.
Emirates offers one of the best in-flight experiences. Some might say, “Of course you'd praise it when flying free.” But after over 35 years of flying with countless airlines and spending hundreds of thousands of dollars, I can say with confidence that Emirates is worth every cent.
From multilingual staff to the ever-smiling cabin crew, their hospitality sets them apart. As a Silver Skywards member, the extra baggage allowance, priority boarding, and access to their remarkable business lounge are major perks.
The business lounge alone is a delight — the buffet spread alone is enough to make your taste buds sing.
Arrival in Venice
As we landed in Venice, a storm began brewing. Our Italian driver unceremoniously dropped us in the middle of a downpour. We were soaked within seconds.
We dashed toward a café near Venezia Mestre Station. Huddled under a small umbrella, the barkeeper made it clear we were unwelcome and even closed the umbrella on us, leaving us drenched under the open sky.
This, too, is part of Italy. Cold and soaked to the bone, we ran to the nearby train station for shelter, kids and elders alike shivering from the cold rain. A formal complaint to the Italian Tourism Authority felt warranted — the experience was shocking.
To Venezia Santa Lucia
Fifteen minutes later, we boarded a train to Venezia Santa Lucia. Though our next leg to Nice was planned for the following day, we chose to leave Mestre immediately due to the unpleasant experience.
Upon arrival, Santa Lucia was bustling. Initially too disillusioned to take in our surroundings, I suddenly noticed the scenery outside — and all grievances melted away.
The Beauty of Venice
Before me lay the breathtaking beauty of Venice. The Grand Canal, majestic churches, and elegant buildings transformed my mood completely. The rainclouds cleared, and sunlight bathed the city in golden warmth.
Tourists filled the piazza, soaking in the sun. I wandered along the canal, among gondoliers, restaurants, and happy faces. In that moment, I rediscovered my joy. The earlier troubles faded into insignificance before the splendor of Venice — truly one of the world’s most beautiful gems.
