Malta aside, this whole trip was about visiting the Venice Biennale, and it was mind-boggling. I’d never been before so had absolutely no clue what to expect, except a plethora of the best modern art from 40 or so countries - and we were not let down. 

Luckily for me, I’m travelling with experienced Venice visitors and before I knew it I was off the ship and immersed in all the Biennale had to offer. 

Our first target was the Japan pavilion, where are were given a “baby” to nurture while we enjoyed the walk through. I am serious: it was a total freak show, but in a good way. The “baby” was a solid 5kg, came with a QR code for more info, and we were even invited to change its diaper. It was a very innovative and interesting experience. Who dreams this stuff up?

There were many other standout exhibitions, and after a few hours - and 24 pavilions - we were completely overwhelmed by the extent of it all. It was an excellent immersion given our limited time, but talk about overload. (I think normal people take several days to absorb it all.)

So time to head back to St Mark’s Square for shopping, people watching, gondola and motoscafi rides, the usual Venice stuff. It was hot and busy, and we loved it. For me, it was my first time here since I was a child. Back then, Mum told us that Venice was sinking so the entire visit was for me really just one long nightmare as I imagined it would happen while we slept. 

Dinner that night was at the Palazzo Grassi, a lovely building full of art, but too much for some of us who headed back to the ship for a private party. Any excuse to ride in the sexy sleek motoscafi. Happy days.