There is a great deal of literature on Venetian Jewry. Bear in mind that some titles that are out of print in the United States can be found with ease in the ghetto. Though Shakespeare never visited Italy, The Merchant of Venice is an essential part of the ghetto s mystique. You can get to Venice by plane, train or car, but once in the city there are only two ways to move water and foot. It s inevitable that you ll do lots of walking, and even if you have porters all the way, it s inevitable that you ll have to do more carrying than usual.
Hotels are plentiful but it s good to reserve well in advance.
After an intense day of walking, sightseeing and exploring the Jewish past, the Cipriani is an ideal retreat for reconciling the images of dreams and history.