One of the many things I love about my job is the stories people tell me about their travels. Case in point: my Puerto Rico-based colleague Marcelino Rivera’s recent trip to Venice, Italy.
Marcelino had been reading our most recent Italy guidebook, and took particular note of the mention of Paolo Olbi, a leather craftsman in Dorsoduro. The next day, while walking off his lunch, he turned to see a storefront (with only a rope to serve as an entryway) and a window display with leather-bound books and journals.
“I saw a man working inside, and I asked him if he was Paolo Olbi. He was! Mind you, there was no address or identifying detail in the book – just a passing reference to the artisans in the area,” Marcelino told me.
What happened next? Paolo invited Marcelino into his workshop, and when Marcelino told him about his mention in the book Paolo was delighted. They spent more time together, Paolo showing Marcelino his work, beautiful journals with intricately designed covers. Then Paolo asked Marcelino to sign his guestbook (also signed by George Clooney).
“I wrote that I respect his art, what he stands for: a living representation of culture, arts and crafts. It was an emotional moment for me and such an honor.”
Serendipity, friends. It’s a beautiful thing. For more vicarious travel joy, read Sasha Brady’s latest about her incredible first trip to Amsterdam.
