FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
GNTO

Serenissima Republica: Home to the Carnival of Venice

by Akhil Kalepu

Dec 12, 2015

Carnival of Venice, Italy © Serapf8 | Dreamstime

Trends / Unique Itineraries & Tours

This January, the people of Venice take to the streets for their annual celebration of the city’s culture, donning colorful costumes and their iconic Venetian masks.

 

The exact origins of the festival are unknown, but it is said it began with the Republic of Venice’s victory against the Patriarchate of Aquileia, with people celebrating by dancing in San Marco Square. This became an official event in 1296 with an edict from the Venetian Senate making the day before Lent a holiday. The Carnival grew in popularity, peaking in the 18th century but eventually outlawed by the ruling King of Austria in 1797, even forbidding the use of masks. It was during this time the festival was relegated to private gatherings, often as an occasion to showcase one’s artistic creations.

 

It wasn’t until two centuries later the Italian government reinstated the Carnival of Venice, along with the resurgence of mask making. Since then it has grown in scope, attracting more than 3 million visitors a year, as well as some of the top costume and fashion designers of the world who come to judge La Maschera Piú Bella, the Most Beautiful Mask, contest.

 

These masks have always been a central part of the Carnival, but the tradition’s origin is unknown. Some believe it was a reaction against the class structure of Italy, which was particularly rigid compared to the rest of aristocratic Europe. By donning masks, the people of Venice could anonymously mingle together ignoring societal divisions like class and gender.

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Destinations / Europe
Nov 20, 2024

Where to Find the Best Stargazing Spots in Ireland

This year, the Northern Lights put on quite the display across Ireland, but don’t think these lights are the only thing you can see in Ireland. In fact, many spots across the country provide some of the best opportunities to stargaze thanks to low levels of light pollution. Ireland has three International Dark Sky Parks and even more spots which, although not accredited, are worth a visit for anyone wishing to see the sky in its unfiltered form.

Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City

Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.

Hotel
Nov 19, 2024

A New Ritz-Carlton Comes to Cancún

After a hiatus, The Ritz-Carlton brand is coming back to Cancún, with the 2027 opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Cancún, Punta Nizuc.

Hotel
Nov 19, 2024

Hilton, Universal Pictures Debut Suite Inspired by Wicked

Hilton and Universal Pictures invite fans of Wicked to indulge in a spellbinding stay in a new, spectacular themed suite. From Nov. 21–Jan. 5, travelers can ‘Stay Like’ Wicked at New York Hilton Midtown.

Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History

Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.

Dining/Entertainment
Nov 19, 2024

Go Teepee Dining on the Beach at This Puerto Vallarta Resort

During a recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, I stayed at Casa Velas, where we also had access to all of the restaurants, experiences and events going on at its sister property Velas Vallarta. One night for dinner, our group put on our best tropical attire and headed to Velas Vallarta for a Teepee Dinner right on the beach.