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<p>The only city in the world constructed purely on waterways, Venice has a beguiling beauty. It has over the years provided an endless canvass for writers, painters and philosophers and the backdrop for haunting films. Packed with palazzi and other must-see cultural attractions, this most remarkable of Italian destinations oozes charm, with the lapping canal water leaving an indelible mark on bewitched visitors.</p>



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<p>Perched upon more than 120 islands within a sheltered lagoon, the maritime melting pot was the centre of a formidable Venetian trading monopoly in the Middle Ages and Renaissance era; legendary 13th-century merchant-explorer Marco Polo called it home. Inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List in 1987, the city has seen its population dwindle by more than half since the end of the Second World War to less than 50,000 today. Talk of its demise is nothing new, and Unesco has twice considered declaring this wonder of the world endangered as it combats a multitude of existential threats, from tourist overcrowding to subsidence.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Grand tour</h3>



<p>The six districts of Venice lie either side of the majestic watercourse known as the Grand Canal, the main artery of the city. There are an estimated 3,000 alleys to explore and 400 bridges to cross. Ponte de Chiodo is the one remaining bridge with no parapet (side wall or rail).</p>



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<p>A voyage down the Grand Canal – Canalazzo to the locals – reveals more than 200 ornate palaces and grand houses lining the banks. The vaporetto (water bus) starts at Piazzale Roma and snakes through the city on waters full of colourful flotillas of gondolas, ferries, taxi launches, high- speed police boats and barges stacked high with fresh produce. Ferry line No. 1 takes in all stops and offers the best views. If possible, grab outside seats at the front or rear of the boat for the full journey to San Marco, Venice’s foremost district, then return in order to drink in the full scenic glory of the palazzi from the opposite direction. A night- time boat trip is perhaps even more magical.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Building bridges</h3>



<p>The ride passes under some splendid bridges. Dating from 1588, the Ponte di Rialto is perhaps the most famous – an iconic eight-metre-high structure with a span of 28 metres positioned at the narrowest point of the Grand Canal. The bridge is the central focus of the city’s commercial hub, the Rialto. Here the wet market, full of luscious fruit, vegetables and fish, is a treat for the senses and has enlivened the quayside since medieval times.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-81112" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-son-tung-tran-6492956-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>San Giacomo di Rialto, the oldest church in Venice, is located nearby. To cross the Grand Canal here board a traghetto, a large gondola in which passengers traditionally remain standing. No visit to Venice would be complete, of course, without floating along some part of the canal network in a black-painted, flat-bottomed, banana-shaped boat guided by an expert gondolier – musical serenade optional.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-81116" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pexels-yan-krukau-5216420-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Another notable bridge on the Grand Canal is the Ponte dell’ Accademia. This wooden structure erected temporarily in 1932 has become a much- loved permanent fixture and affords superb views of waterborne life.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Masters of art</h3>



<p>Riva del Vin, one of the few banks of the canal with pavement access, hosts a clutch of open- air restaurants and hotels. The colossal Baroque palace of Ca’ Pesaro houses the city’s modern art collection and is beautifully floodlit at night. Works by 19th- and 20th-century masters such as Gustav Klimt and Marc Chagall and a strong Italian assemblage are highlights.</p>



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<p>Also located on the Grand Canal is Italy’s leading museum for 20th-century European and American art, the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, which houses the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. The American mining heiress, who began amassing magnificent paintings while living in Paris in the 1920s, relocated to the 18th-century Venetian palace after the war.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Around the square</h3>



<p>Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) is adorned with monuments that bear testimony to Venice’s rich history. Here you will find the great Basilica di San Marco cathedral church, considered the perfect architectural fusion of East and West. Booking a guided visit beforehand is recommended to avoid the queues. The building has been replaced twice, with much of today’s church hailing from 1071, and it became the city’s cathedral in 1807.</p>


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<p>Striking exterior details include the original mosaic over the leftmost door – depicting the transfer of St Mark’s body from Alexandria to Venice – and Romanesque carvings above the central door. The interior is embellished with resplendent historical works of art. The Basilica Museum houses the famed quarter of gilt-bronze horses looted from Constantinople by Venetian forces during the Crusades.</p>



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<p>Adjoining the basilica is the Doge’s Palace, a superb combination of Byzantine, Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Construction began in 1340 and it served as the powerhouse of the city’s rulers until 1797, when Napoleon’s occupation of Italy ended the Republic of Venice. The building became a museum in 1923 and contains terrific works from Venetian painters such as Titian, Tintoretto and Bellini.</p>


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<p>Blessed with many architectural styles, Campo Santa Margherita (St Margaret’s Square) is another lovely square. Its cafes provide charming rest stops to sit and soak up the bustling life of thriving market stalls.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Food with a view</h3>



<p>Turning to dining delights, Venetian restaurants range in style from cool 18th-century refinement to rustic gentility. Venice embraces a wide range of foreign communities and this influence has given rise to Italy’s most eclectic and subtle cooking, according to many culinary experts. The elegant terrace of Grand Canal Restaurant at Hotel Monaco &amp; Grand Canal in San Marco offers picture-postcard views over the lagoon. Venetian, Italian and international dishes are served including fish soup, vegetable risotto and scampi.</p>


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<p>Next door is the legendary watering hole of Ernest Hemingway and many other writers, painters, artists and aristocrats. The success of Harry’s Bar has been attributed to personalised service and lack of imposition. The Bellini aperitivo is said to be invented here and the food is good, too, with an emphasis on classic Italian dishes.</p>



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<p>Originally a 1720s coffee house, Antico Martini is another Venetian institution. Located in San Fantin Square beside La Fenice Opera House, it is a lovely place to sit and watch the sun go down. The warm historical ambience, excellent Italian menu and wonderful background music draw in the crowds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Festia pizzazz</h3>



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<p>Venice is host to a multitude of fantastic festivals. The most famous, the Carnival, is a spectacular parade of masked, caped and gowned revellers staged during the 10 days prior to Lent. In 2024, the city’s internationally acclaimed film festival will take place from 28 August to 7 September, while music lovers can enjoy evening concerts at various venues – in palaces, churches and the open-air – throughout the year. The word regatta originated in Venice, and an amazing historical water pageant precedes a competitive race around the lagoon on 1 September.</p>
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Venetian Finds: With water everywhere and palaces galore, Venice captivates the imagination like no other city

<p>If you’re still not worn out by the excitement and jet lag from your <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/top-getaway-destinations-christmas/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Christmas travels</a>, you’re in luck as there’s still time to plan your trip for the next big holiday – Chinese New Year, which falls at the end of January. From the tropical beauty of Saipan to the romantic Renaissance charm of Venice, here are our top picks for Chinese New Year getaways.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-50349 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min.jpg" alt="Chinese New Year getaways" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Saipan-min-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<h2>Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands</h2>
<p>The beautiful Micronesian island Saipan – tucked away into a remote corner of the Pacific Ocean – is a perfect juxtaposition of the picturesque beauty of land and water. This can be seen from the peak of Mt. Tapochau, one of the isle’s must-visit destinations, where you can get a 360-degree view of the entire island and the languid waters beyond. There is also the Forbidden Island, a destination you can reach by trekking for less than an hour from the main road. This hike further serves to highlight the inherent natural beauty of Saipan’s verdant greenery and azure seas. Moreover, the aquatic scenes of the island is accentuated with its famous Grotto, an underwater limestone cave where you can enjoy activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, diving and more.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-50350 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min.jpg" alt="Chinese New Year getaways" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Tel-Aviv-min-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<h2>Tel Aviv, Israel</h2>
<p>Known for its iconic Bauhaus architecture, the Israeli city of Tel Aviv’s artistic scene is ubiquitous wherever one may roam. For the athletically inclined, countless bike friendly lanes makes it easier for you to experience these visuals. For art enthusiasts, there is the <a href="http://www.tamuseum.org.il/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tel Aviv Museum of Art</a> with current art exhibitions like <em>A New Age: The Spiritual in Art</em> on display until February 2, 2020. With mysticism and spiritualism as the themes of the exhibition, you can see the work of artists like Emma Kunz, Maxime Rossi and more. The city&#8217;s largest park ‒ HaYarkon Park is worth a day on your itinerary with its water park, bird sanctuary and zoo.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-50351 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min.jpg" alt="Chinese New Year getaways" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Venice-min-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<h2>Venice, Italy</h2>
<p>A city that is synonymous to a romantic vibe easily tops any destination list for Chinese New Year getaways. Be it strolling navigating the Floating City’s countless bridges or riding the gondola on the Grand Canal with a view of the beautifully arched Rialto bridge, you will feel like you have been transported into a paradise. History buffs could do far worse than visit the Doge’s Palace, which housed La Serenissima’s ruling dukes for centuries, while, for people who admire the work of Renaissance artists like Bellini, Carpaccio, Giorgione, there is the <a href="http://www.gallerieaccademia.it/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Galleria dell&#8217;Accademia di Venezia</em></a>. For those enamoured with contemporary art, the <a href="http://www.guggenheim-venice.it/inglese/default.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>Peggy Guggenheim Collection</em></a> should also feature high on your itinerary.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-50346 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min.jpg" alt="Chinese New Year getaways" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Bristol-min-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<h2>Bristol, England</h2>
<p>From stumbling upon the artwork of now-popular graffiti artist Banksy to spending a day at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the UK city of Bristol is sure to impress. Moreover, the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Bristol Cathedral are a testimony to the port’s rich heritage and palpable history. A visit to the art and science centre <a href="//www.gafencushop.com/impressionist-bridge/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">We The Curious</a> will be entertaining with events like <em>Winter Stargazing 3D</em> and <em>Solar System Odyssey</em> happening currently. More importantly, you can also indulge in a one-of-a-kind experience by hot air ballooning ‒ the city’s most famous activity – to gain a whole new perspective on this vibrant city.</p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-50509 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital.jpg" alt="Chinese New Year getaways" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/nainital-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></p>
<h2>Nainital, India</h2>
<p>Located on the foothills of the towering Himalayas, Nainital is a very serene and aesthetic city to visit any time of the year. In fact, the place takes pride in its view thus having special spots to admire it. For instance, there is the Snow Viewpoint and the Naini Peak where you will get a mesmerising sight of the City of Lakes. If you are a fan of horse riding, you can ride one to the Naini Peak like many others or you can trek too.&nbsp; Besides, with mountains forming a panoramic view around the Naini lake, you can enjoy a boat ride or a ropeway ride, all without breaking a sweat, making this perhaps one of the more relaxing Chinese New Year getaways on our list</p>


Chinese New Year Getaways: Where to travel for the lunar festivities

<p>Ferretti Yachts, that purveyor of ultra-luxury yachts that have charmed royalty and Hollywood icons alike, put-paid to the rumours that nobody throws a party quite like the Italians earlier this summer. As the sea-faring brand hit the bit 5-0, it pulled out all the stops to host a no-holds-barred extravaganza in the beautiful city of Venice.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38592" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38592" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38592 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations.jpg" alt="Venice was the backdrop for Ferretti Yachts' spectacular 50th birthday celebrations" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Venice-was-the-backdrop-for-Ferretti-Yachts-spectacular-50th-birthday-celebrations-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38592" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Venice was the beautiful backdrop for Ferretti Yachts&#8217; spectacular 50th birthday celebrations</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Esteemed owners of Ferretti Yachts from across the globe and the veritable who’s who of Italian high society descended on The Floating City to help celebrate the marque’s golden jubilee, which marked the culmination of five decades of dedicated, precision yacht-building. &nbsp;</p>
<p>The Italian brand’s story first took root in 1968, when it was founded by siblings Alessandro and Norberto Ferretti as a small family business building bespoke luxury yachts for the social elite of the day. Succeeding decades saw Ferretti Yachts grow to an international scale, soon spreading branches across Europe, North America and Asia, and claiming such luminaries as Brigitte Bardot, Richard Burton and Sophia Loren among its exclusive clientele.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38593" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38593" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38593 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice.jpg" alt="Ferretti Yachts debut the all-new 670 in Venice" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-debut-the-all-new-670-in-Venice-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38593" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Ferretti Yachts debuted its all-new 670 in Venice</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Little of its originally humble family roots were evident across the weekend-long celebration, which kicked off at the Palazzo Ducale. Built in 1340, this well-preserved monument overlooks the touristy Piazza San Marco and was once the residence of the Doges of Venice, who ruled over the long-standing republic from this magnificent Gothic structure until 1797, when Napoleon conquered the city-state. Since then, it has acted as administrative offices for various bureaucratic and governmental bodies before finally being transformed into a museum in 1923.</p>
<p>On this particular evening, however, the palace served as the stage for the inaugural night of Ferretti Yachts&#8217;&nbsp;50th anniversary festivities. Arriving just as the sun began to set, guests were ushered onto the first floor balcony, with its Gothic ogival windows offering prime panoramas of the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront. The positioning could not have been more perfect. Resplendently lined along the directly adjacent harbour were a fleet of eight of its latest models, shown off splendidly in the waning sunlight.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38587" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38587" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38587 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges.jpg" alt="Ferretti's gala dinner was served in the Palazzo Ducale, the seat of power for Venice's ancient Doges" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferrettis-gala-dinner-was-served-in-the-Palazzo-Ducale-the-seat-of-power-for-Venices-ancient-Doges-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38587" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Ferretti&#8217;s gala dinner was served in the Palazzo Ducale, the seat of power for Venice&#8217;s ancient Doges</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>The pièce de résistance, though, came as in the form of an unexpected overhead fly-by courtesy of Pattuglia Acrobatica Nazionale Frecce Tricolori, the Italian air force’s superbly able acrobatic demonstration wing. Flying in tight formation, nine fighter planes soared past the Palazzo Ducale and over the Venice lagoon, painting the sky entirely in Italy’s unmistakable green, white and red. It was the first time this legendary aerial team had flown over La Serenissima in 25 years – a perfect opening act.</p>
<p>Once suitably recovered from the spectacle, attendees commenced the wining and dining portion of the evening in the expansive Sala del Maggior Consiglio, the original meeting hall of the Grand Council of Venice. It was the first such gathering in this august venue since the last Doge passed away in the late 18th century. Surrounded by a veritable treasure trove of Italian art, most notably <em>Il Paradiso</em> by Tintoretto – the world’s largest canvas painting – and <em>Triumph of Venice crowned by victory</em> by Paolo Veronese, guests enjoyed culinary delights and musical performances late into the night.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38584" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38584" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38584 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard.jpg" alt="12th century Venice Arsenal shipyard" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/12th-century-Venice-Arsenal-shipyard-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38584" class="wp-caption-text"><em>The 12th century Arsenale di Venezia shipyard is usually closed to the public</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>After a well-deserved rest, Ferretti Yachts launched head-long into the second day’s itinerary at the historic Arsenale di Venezia complex. First constructed in 1104, this network of shipyards and armouries seeded the rise of Venice as a major regional naval and economic power. During its heyday, the complex churned out one entire ship per day, all without any leg-up from modern-day technology, electricity or machinery.</p>
<p>These days, however, the Arsenale is usually strictly off-limits to the public, but thankfully, the Italian navy in this case deigned to loosen this restriction over the weekend especially for Ferretti Yachts’ 50th anniversary.&nbsp;Visitors were invited to partake in a tour of the historic venue, engage in a host of fun-filled activities and explore upcoming products from the yacht manufacturer’s brand partners along the marina, including a first look at Maserati’s latest cars and Emirates’ new First Class Suite on the Airbus A380 airplane.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38586" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38586" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38586 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal.jpg" alt="Ferretti Yachts' gorgeous fleet at historic Venice Arsenal" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Ferretti-Yachts-gorgeous-fleet-at-historic-Venice-Arsenal-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38586" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Ferretti Yachts&#8217; gorgeous fleet at the historic Venice Arsenal</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>But without a doubt the biggest attraction was centred at the Darsena Nuovissima – the Arsenale’s central docking area. Berthed here and making its international debut was the <em>Ferretti 670</em>, the first-ever flybridge whose exteriors and interiors were designed entirely by Ferretti Group, with the help of renowned Italian architect Filippo Salvetti.</p>
<p>Boasting a roomy 25 square metres of space including a capacious front bow area, the <em>670</em> features a sumptuous master bedroom along with a well-appointed study, with potential owners free to customise its exact specifications according to their own needs.</p>
<p>Alongside this debuting model, moored like so many ducks in a line, were 10 additional specimens of the marque’s luxury fleet, ranging from the more down-to-earth 45-foot <em>450</em> to another all-new introduction – the 95-foot, four-bedroom <em>920</em>, a true statement piece for today’s well-heeled millionaire.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38588" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38588" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38588 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice.jpg" alt="Five-star Hotel Danieli, A Luxury Collection Hotel in Venice" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Five-star-Hotel-Danieli-A-Luxury-Collection-Hotel-in-Venice-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38588" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Five-star Hotel Danieli, A Luxury Collection Hotel in Venice</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>After touring the various ships, lunch – a well-curated sampling of the finest modern Italian cuisine – was served at Terrazzo Danieli. The high-end eatery occupies an open patio within Hotel Danieli, A Luxury Collection Hotel – the partner hotel for the event, and one of the city’s landmark accommodations. Cinephiles may well recognise this establishment as it’s something of a Hollywood icon in its own right.</p>
<p>The unambiguously charismatic venue, which encompasses three historic palazzos including the 14th century Palazzo Dandolo, has been the set for such notable silver screen outings as James Bond’s 1979 adventure, <em>Moonraker</em>, Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr’s 1994 rom-com, <em>Only You</em>, and more recently, Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie’s adventure/thriller, <em>The Tourist</em>.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38589" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38589" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38589 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco.jpg" alt="Piazza San Marco" width="700" height="466" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco.jpg 700w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco-120x80.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco-500x333.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco-400x266.jpg 400w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Piazza-San-Marco-600x399.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38589" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Piazzo San Marco, one of Venice&#8217;s most iconic landmarks, is just a few steps away from Hotel Danieli</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Suitably satiated, there was nothing more to do but wait for the final chapter of the day. And finally, as dusk fell once more, the grand finale of Ferretti’s 50th birthday bash got underway as guests returned to the Venice Arsenale. The ancient Byzantine architecture of the iconic establishment was given a completely 21st century make-over, with strobe lights, an impressive sound system and a fully kitted stage awaiting the 200-plus attendees.</p>
<p>Catered to by none other than that most acclaimed of Italian eateries, Cipriani, guests enjoyed a tasting menu that showcased the very best of <em>Tricolori</em> cuisine. Capping of the night was a performance by Umberto Tozzi, one of the nation’s most famous singers. He took to the stage and performed renditions of his greatest musical numbers, including his 1979 hit <em>Gloria, </em>drawing Ferretti’s 50th festivities to a close on the highest of notes.</p>
<p><figure id="attachment_38590" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-38590" style="width: 466px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-38590 size-full" src="//www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Renowned-Italian-singer-Umberto-Tozzi-regaled-guests-with-a-series-of-his-greatest-hits.jpg" alt="Renowned Italian singer Umberto Tozzi regaled guests with a series of his greatest hits" width="466" height="700" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Renowned-Italian-singer-Umberto-Tozzi-regaled-guests-with-a-series-of-his-greatest-hits.jpg 466w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Renowned-Italian-singer-Umberto-Tozzi-regaled-guests-with-a-series-of-his-greatest-hits-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Renowned-Italian-singer-Umberto-Tozzi-regaled-guests-with-a-series-of-his-greatest-hits-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Renowned-Italian-singer-Umberto-Tozzi-regaled-guests-with-a-series-of-his-greatest-hits-120x180.jpg 120w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Renowned-Italian-singer-Umberto-Tozzi-regaled-guests-with-a-series-of-his-greatest-hits-400x601.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 466px) 100vw, 466px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-38590" class="wp-caption-text"><em>Renowned Italian singer Umberto Tozzi regaled Ferretti Yachts&#8217; guests with a series of his greatest hits</em></figcaption></figure></p>
<p>Ferretti Yachts&#8217; 50th anniversary proceedings against the picturesque backdrop of Venezia were, in a word, epic. The weekend-long celebrations of its golden jubilee, not only paid homage in spectacular style to its Italian heritage, it also afforded the yacht-maker an opportunity to ably demonstrate its ability to deliver flawless luxury experience with absolutely no boundaries – both in hosting an exclusively extravagant party and in the delivery of its achingly beautiful, super-luxury yachts.</p>
<p><em>Text: Tenzing Thondup</em></p>


Ferretti Yachts celebrates spectaculary 50th anniversary in Venice

A Weekend in Venice: Ferretti Yachts marks 50th anniversary in spectacular style

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<p>For the twelfth consecutive year, Jeager-LeCoultre enjoyed its status as a partner of the Venice International Film Festival, the 73<sup>rd</sup> edition of which was held from the 31<sup>st</sup> August to the 10<sup>th</sup> September this year. To coincide with this iconic event in the film calendar the Grande Maison unveiled its very latest jewellery creations. The collection, which is a tribute to all things feminine, is yet another spectacular triumph of elegance, luxury and splendor that Jaeger-LeCoultre is synonymous with.</p>


Tag: venice

Venetian Finds: With water everywhere and palaces galore, Venice captivates the imagination like no other city

Chinese New Year Getaways: Where to travel for the lunar festivities

A Weekend in Venice: Ferretti Yachts marks 50th anniversary in spectacular style

IN APPRECIATION OF THE FEMININE FORM

Tag: venice

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Venetian Finds: With water everywhere and palaces galore, Venice captivates the imagination like no other city

Chinese New Year Getaways: Where to travel for the lunar festivities

A Weekend in Venice: Ferretti Yachts marks 50th anniversary in spectacular style

IN APPRECIATION OF THE FEMININE FORM