Along with gondolas, canals and bridges, the thought of Venice, Italy, often conjures up images of colorful blown glass. Intricate light fixtures, drinking glasses, plates, bowls and jewelry.

And years ago, an abundance of glass factories existed on the island. As the ovens used in glass production were prone to fires, though, the government banned their use in the late 1200s. In response to the ban, the factories moved to Murano, now known as Glass Island, north of Venice.

As luck would have it, during our stay in Venice, our hotel was offering complimentary transportation to Murano.

I know, I know. At the moment, my husband and I were apparently too overcome with the excitement attached to a day trip to question the catch. There most certainly would be a catch.

Instead, we boarded the water taxi and were soon motoring our way down the Grand Canal. Eventually, our complimentary water taxi ride concluded at the dock of a glass factory, where a representative extended a warm greeting before whisking us inside.

So, the catch: in exchange for the free ride, my husband and I were obligated to attend a factory demonstration, tour the display rooms and listen to the sales pitch? We could surely handle that.

In reality, we did appreciate the glass-blowing demonstrations. The talented master glassmaker effortlessly created a horse and a vase in a matter of minutes. We did marvel at the handcrafted creations that lined the walls and tables filling a series of rooms that snaked through the elegant warehouse.

The aggressive sales pitch, though, we endured. We had to keep reminding ourselves it was the price we paid for taking the “free” water taxi.

And while on the island, we strolled around the streets known for their colorful buildings. Streets that were a good deal less crowded than the streets of Venice. We grabbed a bite to eat. Same delicious pizza and chicken.

My husband and I also discussed how we needed to be more cautious if, in the future, we are ever presented with a complimentary offer, again.

But then we quickly moved on to appreciation for having had the opportunity to spend our day on Glass Island. What a catch, after all.

(Note: Marjorie Appelman is an English, communications and journalism teacher at Mason County High School and co-founder of the travel blog Tales from the Trip, which is on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. She can be reached at [email protected].)

A master glassmaker illustrates how paper ignites into flame when it comes into contact with the hot glass.
https://maysville-online.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/web1_glass1-1.jpgA master glassmaker illustrates how paper ignites into flame when it comes into contact with the hot glass.

Murano, Italy, is known for its colorful buildings.
https://maysville-online.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/web1_glass2-1.jpgMurano, Italy, is known for its colorful buildings.

The Signoretti Factory is one of many on the island of Murano, Italy.
https://maysville-online.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/web1_glass3-1.jpgThe Signoretti Factory is one of many on the island of Murano, Italy.

The Italian flag flies in a square in Murano.
https://maysville-online.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/web1_glass4-1.jpgThe Italian flag flies in a square in Murano.

Murano, Italy, is known for its colorful buildings.
https://maysville-online.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/web1_glass5-1.jpgMurano, Italy, is known for its colorful buildings.

Marjorie Appelman