Venice, Italy (The Slow Lane)
I Asked a Gondolier in Venice for a Motor
The gondolas of Venice have been pushed along with the same long pole for centuries. I asked about a motor. He stopped singing.
Venice is a city built on water. Canals instead of streets. Very romantic, if you enjoy being late. I took a gondola ride, and I had some ideas.
The Request
The gondolier stood at the back with a long pole, pushing us along. Slowly. Singing. I leaned back and asked, “Do you have a motor?” He stopped singing. That’s how you know you’ve hit on something.
The Negotiation
I offered to buy his gondola, add a motor, paint it gold and call it the Donnola. He said gondolas have been made the same way for centuries. I said, then they’re overdue for an upgrade. My phone gets one every week.
The Result
No motor. But I did get him to sing faster. We finished the canal in record time, and two songs.
Tips for Venice
- Wear good shoes. There are no cars. You walk everywhere, or you float.
- The pigeons will follow you around the square. It’s the fame. Don’t feed them. It only encourages the fame.
- Don’t ask about a motor. The whole city goes quiet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did the gondolier ever forgive you?
He sang the last song in a minor key. I think that's Italian for 'thank you.'
What is a Donnola?
The gondola of the future. Gold, with a motor and a horn that plays my name.