Can't swing a trip to Italy, much less a gondola ride through the canals of Venice?
Lake Merritt in Oakland is a far cry from the crumbling glory of La Serenissima, but you can always close your eyes and pretend. Gondola Servizio operates authentic gondolas imported from Venice on the urban lake.
The company also runs gondolas on the Napa River in downtown Napa.
Rides cost $45 per couple for 30 minutes on Lake Merritt or from $55 in Napa. For more information: (530) 663-6603, (866) 737-8494 or www.gondolaservizio.com.
Vacationers in a smoochy mood also can cuddle up in a gondola in Southern California at these spots:
* Gondola Getaways of Long Beach offers rides along the waterfront (replete with singing gondoliers and snacks) from $65 per couple (562-433-9595).
* The Gondola Co. in Newport Beach specializes in private parties - but, hey, it takes only two to party, right? The cost ranges from $75 per couple for a one-hour ride (949-675-1212 or www.gondolas.com).
* Redondo Beach also has a gondola operation, Gondola Amore, with rides from $75 (310-376-6977 or www.gondolaamore.com).
And don't forget, there's always Las Vegas. Gondola rides through the fake Grand Canal at the Venetian Resort and Casino start at $12.50 general, $7.50 for ages 12 and younger. A private ride for two costs $60.
You'll have to wear a seat belt, so don't plan on getting too carried away.
For more information: (702) 414-4500 or www.venetian.com.