Listening to an Italian serenade while floating in a gondola through the Venetian's Grand Canal Shoppes is a relaxing and entertaining experience.
“We transport riders to the most romantic city in the world and it’s a nice little getaway from the hustle and bustle from the casino,” said Cristiano Bracali, a gondolier at the Venetian.
One of these romantic rides is sure to give you butterflies as well.
Following the popular Italian tradition, couples can kiss under each bridge for good luck. Pucker up, because there are quite a few of them. Not that you'll mind in the least bit -- rides like these remind you of why you fell in love with your sweetie in the first place.
Gondoliers are experts in making moments special, including marriage proposals.
“Proposals are frequent because they are so romantic,” Bracali said. “One that sticks out in my mind the most is a young couple who were very much in love. I [sang] the song to them and pulled around the corner and there was all of her family and many of her close friends standing there. She was very shocked. He dropped to one knee and proposed to her, with everyone watching.”
There is a beautiful white and gold wedding gondola reserved for couples tying the knot.
Guests have the choice to ride inside or outside the hotel. “Each one has their strengths,” Bracali said. “Outside is very romantic at nighttime with the beautiful lights of the city and inside is always 76 degrees.”
The indoor gondolas travel through the Grand Canal Shoppes and the ride lasts about 15 minutes. Admire the lovely Italian-inspired architecture inside the shoppes, as well as the blue sky-painted ceiling. The outdoor gondolas glide along a lagoon at the front of the hotel. While this ride is a couple of minutes shorter than the indoor one, it offers a breathtaking view of the Las Vegas Strip. The outdoor gondolas are subject to closing during inclement weather.
Keep in mind that each gondola seats four, so you might be paired with another couple. Even if you're not here on a date, it's still a nice way to take a break and really get away from it all.
-- Review by Jeannie Borbe
