Every gondola that silently slides through Venice’s water streets is operated by a skilled gondolier. The rowing style, voga alla veneta, which involves standing up and facing forward, is a skill passed through generations. For centuries, no formal training or qualifications were required. Only since 2007 must the gondoliers undergo 400 hours of instruction and take a final test.
In addition to ferrying passengers and knowing their way around the canals, the gondoliers also appear in countless photos,
indulge guests by letting them wear their hats,
and drum up business by charmingly enticing guests to take pricey rides.
After all that work, a little R & R is well-earned.
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