Exclusive for MoS readers: Revel in the wonders of Venice with Alex Polizzi -join the star of TV’s Secret Italy on a cruise to discover the enchanting City of Canals
Everybody should go to Venice at least once – it is one of the wonders of the world. You just can’t believe that mankind created this city.’ So says Alex Polizzi, the travel expert, hotelier and TV presenter, who will be your special guest on this unforgettable cruise around Venice and its iconic lagoon.
You will stay in the perfect place to explore this magnificent city – close to Venice’s must-see sights and away from the crowds – on board the stylish MS Michelangelo. As well as having time to discover Venice, you’ll have the chance to visit beautiful Chioggia and Padua.
Drawing on her local knowledge, Italian heritage and experience presenting TV travel series such as Secret Italy, Alex will give a private talk to readers one evening, plus join you on a wonderful excursion to explore the islands of Murano and Burano. She says: ‘Venice is completely magical – I’m looking forward enormously to joining you there.’
Italy’s jewel: The Grand Canal and St Mark’s Basilica
The fishing village of Burano is famous for its vividly coloured houses and centuries-old tradition of lace-making
OUR SPECIAL GUEST
You will be joined by Alex Polizzi, above
The popular travel expert, hotelier and presenter Alex Polizzi comes from a long line of famous hoteliers – she is the granddaughter of Lord Forte. After reading English at Oxford University, she trained at the Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, worked for Marco Pierre White at the Criterion, and has worked at Rocco Forte Hotels around the world. Alex has been presenting TV series about travel and hotels for more than ten years, including The Hotel Inspector, The Fixer, Chefs On Trial and two series exploring her Italian heritage: Alex Polizzi’s Secret Italy and Alex Polizzi’s Italian Islands.
Reasons to book
Meet Alex Polizzi
Alex will give a special talk on board, featuring her stories and expert insights about Venice and Italy, as well as answering your travel questions following her talk.
Island visits with Alex
She will also join you for an excursion to discover two wonderful islands in the Venetian lagoon – Murano and Burano. Murano has been known for its glasswork since the 13th Century, and you will have the opportunity to watch a master glassmaker at work.
Next you will explore the pretty fishermen’s village of Burano, famous for its vividly coloured houses and centuries-old tradition of lace-making.
Sailing in style
Your ship, the stylish MS Michelangelo, is the perfect base for a trip to Venice. As well as boasting smart, comfortable cabins – each with wi-fi, air-conditioning and a bathroom with a shower – the facilities include a sun deck with chairs and recliners, a lounge bar with dancefloor, and a restaurant with large windows offering panoramic views.
Fantastic excursions
You will also have the chance to pick from a range of wonderful optional excursions, including a visit to the nearby city of Padua, a tour of a local manufacturer of hand-crafted gondolas and Venetian masks, and a walking tour in Casanova’s footsteps through the secret passageways of the Doge’s Palace.