Meet Michael Dejene Gutta Gutta — a Lokafyer whose journey started in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and brought him all the way to the winding canals of Venice. Currently pursuing a master's in Global Development and Entrepreneurship at Ca’ Foscari University, Michael shares Venice through a local lens, blending his passion for history, storytelling, and authentic connections. Whether uncovering hidden corners or simply soaking in the everyday beauty of the city, Michael shows travelers that Venice isn’t just a postcard — it’s a living, breathing experience waiting to be explored.
Michael's Story:
My name is Michael Dejene Gutta Gutta. I’m originally from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and now based in Venice, Italy, where I’m currently studying Global Development and Entrepreneurship at Ca’ Foscari University.
I became a Lokafyer because I love interacting with people from all walks of life and sharing places through a local lens. Guiding lets me combine my interests in history, storytelling, and culture while making meaningful connections. And as a student, the flexibility and setting your own hours is also something that made me want to join.
What I love most about Venice is it’s a museum itself. Beyond the crowds and iconic sights, it’s full of peaceful corners, local faces, and little surprises that keep it fresh even for those of us who live here.
I moved here to pursue my master’s degree, but I stayed because of how Venice constantly challenges you to pay attention. There’s always a detail, a story, or a mood waiting to be discovered around the next corner.
My Lokafy Experience:
One of the best parts of this work is the people I get to meet. I’ve guided everyone from retired teachers to entrepreneurs and even a nuclear engineer. Each brings their own energy, and I enjoy learning just as much as I share — the conversations make each tour unique.
A standout memory was a tour with a small group who didn’t want the usual highlights. Instead, we explored quiet churches, stopped to see the Banksy piece near San Pantalon, and ended in Dorsoduro enjoying cicchetti. The slower pace let us connect, and that’s where the magic happened.
To me, what makes a tour exceptional isn’t just knowledge — it’s creating a comfortable, engaging atmosphere. When someone tells me, “You made Venice more enjoyable for us,” that’s exactly what I hope to do: make the experience feel easy, real, and memorable.
Before each tour, I always check if travelers have requests or inspirations from friends or blogs. I use that to build a flexible route with both must-sees and hidden gems. I keep the tone relaxed, ask questions, and adjust as we go based on the energy of the group.
One challenge I faced was dealing with a guest who was quite dismissive and critical during a tour. I stayed calm, stayed professional, and focused on making the rest of the group feel heard. They appreciated the effort and even apologized for the tension afterward. It reminded me that being adaptable and composed matters just as much as being informative.
Local Insights:
Some of my favorite hidden gems include:
- Chiesa di San Pantalon – with the world’s largest ceiling painting on canvas.
- Libreria Acqua Alta – a floating bookstore that embodies Venice’s creativity.
- Despar Teatro Italia – a supermarket inside a restored 1916 theater.
- The Jewish Ghetto – full of important history and authentic local atmosphere.
My favorite neighborhood is Dorsoduro — it’s peaceful, full of art, and feels more local. The pace is slower, and it has a certain elegance that I love to share.
As for traditions and events, I always recommend the Venice Biennale. It’s one of the most exciting times in the city, and I enjoy it personally as well. It turns Venice into a living, global art exhibit and offers a fresh experience even for those who’ve been here many times before.
Tips and Advice:
I tailor my tours depending on who I’m guiding — for families, I focus on stories and space to explore; for solo travelers, I keep things more personal; for couples, I highlight the romantic and scenic sides of the city.
To new Lokafyers, I’d say: you don’t have to be perfect. Be curious, be adaptable, and treat your guests like people, not clients. Tours are about connection more than information.
For travelers, my advice is: slow down. Venice rewards those who wander without a map. Take a turn off the main street, sit by a canal, and let the city come to you.
Closing Thoughts:
Michael reminds us that Venice’s true magic isn’t just in its world-famous landmarks, but in its quiet moments, local corners, and genuine human connections. Through his journeys, he shows that with curiosity, patience, and heart, even the most familiar places can still surprise and inspire.
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