HeyReader
This past week, I did something I had been wanting to do for a long time. To be honest, I am in a bit of a panic with our move to Belgium looming over us (SURPRISE!) I feel like I need to do as much as possible before we move from Italy to Belgium; it's the usual panic that ensues: " Did I see everything? Did I do everything? What if I never come back to Italy?"
So I decided to head to Venice and row a boat! What better way to celebrate living near Venice than to FINALLY ROW A BOAT!
We all have that postcard image of Venice in our minds.
Gondolas. Canals. St. Mark’s Square. Carnivale
But do we ever stop to think about what Venice actually is—beyond the busy squares and yearly celebrations? What’s truly Venetian?
Row Venice is a women-led non-profit focused on preserving traditional Venetian rowing.
They teach the voga alla veneta—a centuries-old technique used across the lagoon (seriously! It was the only way to get around Venice for the longest time!)
Lessons are led by experienced athletes (women who have won championship races and come from generations of champions!) Some moved to the Lagoon from the USA and have been teaching it for over 20 years!
Your booking directly supports the continuation of this tradition.
Because here’s the thing no one really talks about:
Venice isn’t just the gondolas you see in photos; it’s the technique behind them. The way you move through the water. The traditions that slowly disappear unless people actively choose to experience them, or for the women who teach voga alla veneta, they constantly ask, "What happens when a tradition dies out? What happens to Venice?"
This style of rowing—voga alla veneta—is distinctly Venetian.
My instructor, Nan, stood behind me, coaching me through the technique as we moved through the canals.
We slipped under centuries-old bridges while she explained the history, how, from a distance, it looks effortless, like you’re just gliding across the water.
Meanwhile, I kept sneaking glances at my oar…
“Eyes ahead!” she called out.
And just like that, we slid out into the lagoon as my body started to get into the rhythm (and balance, you're literally in split stance the whole time!)
Ahead of me, the faint outline of the Dolomites (the day was perfect!)
To my right, a plane arriving into Venice Marco Polo Airport
To my left, Ponte della Libertà (a bridge inaugurated by Benito Mussolini) carrying people into the city.
It's a moment I'll never forget, standing there, oar flat, balancing on the waters of the Venetian lagoon.
And honestly? I wish I had done something like this sooner, because this is Venetian to its core. In a city so complex and layered with history, I started to understand it a little more. So the next time Venice is on your itinerary, add this local non-profit to the No.1 spot on your list.
If you’re thinking about trying this, here’s what you should know:
- You can row year-round
- You’ll use a traditional batelina (very stable and beginner-friendly)
- It’s great for families—kids can row or ride along
- No charge for children under 4
- Pricing is per boat, not just who rows
- Lessons start and end at the same meeting point usually Canereggio! (my FAVORITE Venetian neighborhood!)
- You can book online based on available time slots
If you want to check it out:
https://rowvenice.org/
Travel Reminder: Europe + UK Entry Changes
If you’re traveling to Europe this year, things at the border are starting to change.
The EU is rolling out a new Entry/Exit System (EES). Instead of getting your passport stamped, your entry and exit will be recorded digitally.
On your first visit, you may be asked to provide fingerprints and a photo. (It was a bit messy for a few of us on our recent trip out of Italy to Morocco, so just be prepared!)
It’s not complicated—but it can slow things down, especially during peak travel periods.
→ Give yourself extra time at airports and border crossings this summer.
If the UK is part of your trip, there’s one more step:
Travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Australia now need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding their flight.
It’s a quick online application that allows visits up to 6 months for tourism or visiting family.
The cost is currently £16 and increases to £20 starting April 8, 2026.
Be sure to apply through the official government website—some third-party sites charge extra and try to look legitimate.
Also, having an ETA doesn’t guarantee entry, so you’ll still go through standard border checks on arrival.
→ Bottom line: apply ahead of time and give yourself extra buffer time so nothing catches you off guard.
That's all for now!
Until the next adventure,
Kimberly
