When weaving my way beside and over canals in Venice, Italy, I tired of the cliche, costumed Gondoliers and cheesy music being played. As I continued, I took a moment to appreciate the calm "normal" life of these Venetians. The man bailing out his boat. Another looking on and talking to the man's companion from his upstairs window. A woman examining herself while walking by a window. Then, I felt like I had truly experienced Venice.