Venice like a Local - By Giulia Giorgetti, Tour Leader aboard La Bella Vita

Discovering Venice

There is something special about being a tour leader for La Bella Vita… it‘s a sort of gift!

I’ve lived in the Veneto region my whole life, growing up right next door to what is arguably the most recognisable city in the world. I remember dining on the very best homemade pasta and pizza (my grandmother’s recipe), long summers by the lagoon and clear crisp days when we could make out the Dolomites in the distance. And yet, since I have joined the crew aboard La Bella Vita, I feel like I am discovering my city and region anew!

A Typical Day

There is no such thing! We cruise on such diverse and special waterways that I come across new sights every time, small villages, ancient bell towers, and the smell of baking bread in the early morning. We go from the small, provincial life of the waterside towns to the majestic brilliance of the Palazzo Ducale in Venice or the Cathedral in Ferrara. I love to see our clients happy and in awe of the local architecture, wine and food, they are tenets of the Italian river cruise experience.  Some days I might be taking you to investigate the Archaeological museum in Adria, or on others we may be sipping some beautiful wine on the Bagnoli Estate, it is a constantly changing cycle of duties, but one in which I take great pleasure.

Any Recommendations?

Andrea’s cooking to start with! Whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner he is a master of Italian cuisine, but also very bold and experimental. I love the expressions on our guest’s faces when they taste his food for the first time, a true taste of Italy, authentic. So, naturally I must recommend Andrea’s cooking class, which happens once a week, that way, when you get home you’ll be able to bring some Italian flair to your own kitchen! If you asked me my favourite point of the cruise, of this I have no doubt. Pellestrina. It is a long strip of land on the lagoon that has the most magical atmosphere, and an ideal spot for a bike ride, gelato, or just to sit back and watch the mesmerising sunset.

La Bella Vita is a truly special boat, if you haven’t cruised in Italy, this is the way to see it!

Ciao for now.