Venice Is Not Tutto Bene With the Jeff Bezos-Lauren Sanchez Wedding
Briefly

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez are preparing to marry in Venice, sparking protests from locals concerned about tourism's impact on their city. Protesters argue that the wedding symbolizes how outsiders exploit Venice, reducing it to a commercial asset. Concurrently, European cities face similar anti-tourism demonstrations, highlighting a widespread frustration over the influx of tourists. While the city gradually adapts to hosting events like celebrity weddings, officials remain divided, with the mayor welcoming the couple despite rising local opposition and daily entrance fees that some feel are insufficient.
This wedding is the symbol of the exploitation of the city by outsiders. Venice is now just an asset, which many locals feel is turning their home into a commodity.
The protests in Venice, which coincide with anti-tourism demonstrations across Europe, reflect a growing frustration with how tourist influx harms the essence of the city.
Venice officials note that hosting high-profile events is common, stating that such events, including celebrity weddings, are a norm for the city.
Mayor Luigi Brugnaro expressed his 'shame' over the protests while still extending a warm welcome to Bezos and Sánchez, highlighting the city's complex relationship with tourism.
Read at Vulture
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