Wilkommen in Europa

Welcome to Europe, where striking workers are common, particularly in the high profile tourism sector.

Venetian gondoliers, enraged by a ban on boating at night, have gone on strike - spoiling many a couple's dream of a Valentine's Day boat trip.

The Italian city, concerned over a range of problems caused by waves, has introduced strict traffic rules.

Gondolas cannot take to the canals between 0100-1030, when deliveries of goods are made by bigger boats.

But gondoliers say the ban is unfair and are threatening to carry on their protest until the ban is revoked.

I was within one day of being denied entry into the Eiffel Tower on account of striking workers. This is what happens in the socialist paradise that is Europe, with free health care for all, no guns (and no ability to hunt or protect yourself), and strict governmental controls on industry: labor unions, or workers in general, can strike at the drop of a hat, ruining your holiday.