Burano is just one of the more than fourty islands in the lagoon surrounding Venice. Historically a fishing village, this is now a minor lifestyle with tourism supporting the largest growth, mainly fuelled by the sale of high quality lace. Even this is under threat, as many of the shops sell lace imported from Asia, and many people probably can\'t spot the difference. For those in the know there is still a quality product to be had, but as with many things you'll have to pay an increased price. The colourfully painted houses and quiet, relaxed atmosphere are certainly a very welcome change from the hectic and often cramped feeling of Venice. From the moment you arrive and wander the streets, cross the canals, and peruse the shops you'll feel that the trip was well worthwhile. Unfortunately we found the restaurants a bit of a let down - we didn't actually eat in one so I could be judging unfairly, but none seemed to possess the atmosphere we had expected from the rest of our afternoon. Also worth a look is the town's main square, Piazza Galuppi, beside the 16th century Church of San Martino with its leaning bell tower. There are numerous 'excursions' to Burano from Venice, but they charge about twenty euros per person for the boat trip. A better idea is regular boat on the LN line which leaves from the Riva degli Schiavoni, along the waterfront from St Marks Square. This is covered by a regular ticket, so didn't cost us anything extra.
