This annual celebration dates back to 1577 when the city was finally rid of a plague that killed many of its citizens. The festival also marked groundbreaking of Palladio's "Redentore" (Redeemer) Church on the Island of the Giudecca. (The church was also built to commemorate the end of the plague.)
Over the years, the festival grew from one of religious significance to one that also now includes a more secular celebration in the way of a 30-minute fireworks extravaganza. Today, thousands of visitors flock to Venice for this festival. Small boats, often decorated with balloons, head to St. Mark's Bay and the Giudecca Canal in anticipation of the fireworks show that begins at 11:30 pm.
This summer, Crystal Serenity will have the best seat in the house for this amazing spectacle as she overnights in Venice. Guests will be treated to a champagne reception, local entertainment, a sumptuous Venetian dinner, and views of the fireworks from the open deck.
“Venice is one of the most magical cities in the world; to be there during this festival adds yet another layer to the authentic experience that our guests seek and expect with a Crystal vacation,” says Thomas Mazloum, senior vice president, hotel operations. “We’re thrilled to be a part of the celebration and to offer our guests more time to immerse themselves in the culture.”
This cruise begins on July 7, 2010 in Athens, Greece and visits Santorini, Crete, and Patmos Greece; Kusadasi, Turkey; Kotor, Montenegro; Split, Croatia; and Venice, Italy.
Two-for one cruise fares start at $6,465 per person, double occupancy. Complimentary air transportation from more than 20 North American gateways, including Business Class air for Penthouse guests, plus a $1,000 per person ‘All Inclusive–As You Wish’ shipboard credit are included.
For more information and Crystal reservations, contact your travel agent, call 1-(888) 799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.
—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxuryCruiseBible.com
Video courtesy of YouTube user Leifleo35121
No comments:
Post a Comment