Imagine this: Jeff Bezos, a man with billions of dollars and influence that opens almost every door, plans to hold his mega wedding in the heart of Venice, in the magnificent Renaissance building Scuola Grande della Misericordia. But surprise! Venice said “no”! Yes, you read that right. A city that thrives on tourism, where hordes of tourists daily choke the streets, decided it does not want another mega event that would paralyze the city and drive real estate prices through the roof.
Why? Because the local population said enough! Too much crowding, noise, and wild price hikes. Even though Bezos can buy almost anything, he couldn’t buy permission for his wedding in the heart of Serenissima.
Venice’s mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, and local activists launched an organized resistance campaign called “No Bezos Places.” The result? Bezos and his entourage of dignitaries, media, and royal guests had to change the location and moved the wedding to the slightly more remote island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
This situation is a prime example of how money and influence are not enough to overcome local interests and resistance. Tourism is important for the economy, but when it becomes too much, it turns into a nightmare for locals. Venice chose to stand with its citizens, not the rich tourists and their extravagant celebrations.
This is a lesson for all big rich and powerful people: money can’t buy everything, and local identity and community welfare are worth more than any profit.
What do you think about Venice’s move? Did the city do the right thing, or did Bezos deserve to have his wedding wherever he wanted? Drop a comment, maybe Bezos is reading! Or at least his entourage.
Either way, Venice showed that even in a world ruled by money, there are limits you just don’t cross. Bravo, Serenissima!
