Travel stories from Italy

I've been to Europe now about 20 times for business and pleasure and while I have many favorites, Italy will always have a special place in my heart as it was the first country I visited back in the 90's. Just recently I was back to Venice for a photoshoot. I think Venice is absolutely beautiful and end up in San Marco piazza just about every day or island hopping to Lido or Murano, but Venice is not for me. It's a bit of a tourist trap. There is a bit of an attitude from the local shop owners and restaurant staff, and food can be overpriced for what you get. I also find it really difficult (and inconvenient) to get around in the city. To get to something that's just a 100 feet away, you might have to backtrack and cross a couple canals in order to reach. Now imagine that with a big luggage in tow. Maybe I'm just that bad with maps and directions? ;-)