I haven't travelled that extensively (yet), but of the places I have visited, Venice was probably the most surreal. It feels isolated, spooky, mysterious and romantic, all at once. It almost feels like a massive amusement park, and I found it difficult to comprehend that people actually lived there. I've heard of people thinking it smells and is dirty, but I didn't see any of that. Looking back, my experience was more akin to the first photo: eerie light, a feeling of isolation and an intense feeling of being watched or followed. But in a good way. If that makes sense. We stayed in a tiny orange coloured apartment right near the Grand Canal. Our neighbours were locals who hung their washing out of their windows; and would cook the most delicious smelling meals while talking quickly and loudly in Italian. We explored the back alley ways and got lost so many times I lost count. I think I also drank beer on the very same wharf in the first photo, watching the sunset and fishing boats returning home for the day. It was lovely and I can't wait to return and get lost again.
Bottom photo from Teen Vogue.
