b j

Have the incredible opportunity to visit Venice during Carnevale 2001. Reading that
500,000 people crowd the islands during this
time; any thoughts and advice from others who
have been during this time will be appreciated. We have been before in October.
Thanks

sandy

I have NOT been to Venice during Carnivalem but we were there this year shortly AFTER. Judging by the enthusiasm with which the native Venetians speak about Carnivale, I can only conclude that it is something extraordinary. However,Ii don't like crowds, so I will NEVER (I wish they had italics so I wouldn't have to use all CAPS) see it. If you liike crowds (and cold weather), go! Venice is fantastic.

Paulo

I say go ... it's a unique experience. IMO crowds are a nuisance when one's visiting museums, etc. When there are crowds gathered in the piazza, campi and calles for partying that's a completely different story. In these occasions I think that crowds are welcome Be prepared to spend quite a bit, specially if you intend to attend a mask ball in one of the palazzi.

Paulo

b j

Thanks for the tips; don't think we could stand to pass up this chance; just couldn't stand to have a bad experience, Venice is such a wonderful
place to visit.

Paulo

You may follow what will be going on next carnival at
http://www.carnivalofvenice.com/

Paulo

Patrick

Have you been to Venice before? I would only say that you won't have experienced Venice itself during Carnevale. Sort of like going to Mardi Gras in New Orleans. If a person has only been to New Orleans during Mardi Gras, he will have a whole different perspective from having visited it without Mardi Gras. I hate that kind of crowds, so I'd miss either, but if you've been to Venice and like it, go this time just for the experience of Carnevale.

bj

Thanks for the e mail site: I had looked at some. Patrick, we have been before; I like your Mardi Gras analogy.
Can't say we are crazy about crowds, etc, but I think/hope this will be an
experience that one would not forget.
Anyone else been recently during
Carnivale. Thanks

Dona

I was there 2 years ago - it is truly unique and I wouldn't pass it up. Yes it's crowded - but if you're away from Piazza San Marco most of the time, it's really quite manageable. I do agree with Patrick - if you can stay a day or two after Carnevale, do. The city returns to normal and is extraordinary in a whole other way...

Have a great time.

Dona