Murano - Imagining a future beyond glass

The tradition of generations of Murano residents learning the craft of glass making is facing an uncertain future, reports the New York Times, as future generations may find themselves learning how to provide guest services at luxury hotels on their home island. I got to visit the island to see them make glass firsthand in a stiflingly hot shop, then gawk in amazement at their finished products in the factory store. The NY Times story describes how Murano failed to recognize trends in the future and adapt to them, but I wonder why and how it would occur to the Muranese to shut down their ovens and build hotels for tourists. Visit this island as soon as you can.

Click here for a slideshow of Murano courtesy of the New York Times.

The grand canal of Murano