Venice Carnival

Venice Carnival is one of my favourite times in Venice. I arrive early around 6am or sunrise at Piazza San Marco. Usually people who have paid lots of money for their outrageous and beautiful costumes are there with their private photographers to get their photos taken before the crowds arrive. I always ask permission and it is almost always granted to take photos alongside the photographer. Hiding behind the masks and outfits are many people and sometimes they are not who you think. I might ask a beautiful woman for her photo and a gruff male voice will say “si avante” or vice versa. This is the time that cross dressers will delightedly transform themselves without fear of repercussions.  By 9 am the square is crowded and even walking over the bridges can be a hassle. Rainy days often mean that everyone stays inside but for me St Marks Square is beautifully reflected in the puddles unless the rain is heavy when we have to walk on wooden broadwalks.