I seem to recall someone else in another forum soliciting similar counsel for the same calendar window.

Never been to the former Yugoslavia, as you know, and have spent just a single afternoon in Venice, but that legendary city

Lives. Up. To. All. You. Have. Read. Or. Heard.

If you have not already, read Lord Norwich's History of Venice, which will provide invaluable historical context. Plus, reading the book is like having it explained to you over dinner by one of the world's most civilized raconteurs.

cordially,