I was in Venice standing in front of a restaurant that had gotten rave reviews. No reservations were accepted so patrons were advised to arrive before 6:00 when the restaurant opened to be assured of getting a table. As I waited a young woman wandered by with her eyes fixed on a map in a Fromer’s English language Venice guide. Before she even opened her mouth, it was obvious from her dress and accessories that she was from the U.S.
Addressing me in halting Italian, she asked something about the Rialto Bridge. I explained to the young woman that I spoke English and asked her what it was that she was looking for. As I suspected, she was looking for the Rialto Bridge. I instructed her to walk straight ahead and to turn left when she reached the Grand Canal.
“Oh, thank you so much!” she said, “You speak English so well!"
