Birdfruit: Wishlist Wednesdays: Venice Home

I have a long-term wish to retire in the scenic canals of Venice. Not Venice, Italy but Venice, California. I have visited both but prefer the weather and beachside amenities of Cali’s version of Venice. The first time I visited the canals was back in 2006. I fell in love with the small bridges that connect each waterway, the innovative home designs, and the fact that people were actually leisurely canoeing through the neighborhood. Can’t say that about where I live!

Here are some photos I took from the 1st trip:

And the houses... sigh...

Ok, had to add this one in! The skateboarding rugrat with the mini fauxhawk is just too cute!!

Well, I returned this year to one of my favorite travel spots. Just the way I remembered and better than ever…

The canals seem pretty elite because of the limited space and prime location, so for those who can’t afford a home on the canals, Venice offers home exchanges and rentals.

For example: If you happen to live in London or “somewhere else in Europe,” then you may be able to exchange your home with a semi-retired television writer and a career counselor at Home Exchange.

Or for almost $8,000 a month, you can rent out this brand new 4-bedroom/4-bathroom tri-level house with over 3,000 sq ft. There’s even an endless pool if you don’t feel like walking 2 blocks to the beach.