I found Claudia's place to be ideal for my requirements. It is near Piazzale Roma so you only have to carry your case over one bridge! Plus, it's easy to find your way back home because wherever you are in Venice you will eventually find a sign to the Piazzale and then you can follow it back to the apartment! It was magical living right next to a canal, and it took me less than half an hour to walk to everything I wanted to see. Claudia was really helpful and had lots of recommendations for places to eat. She made some phone calls to help me sort out a difficult bus journey. The room is quiet and comfortable and has a large desk and facilities for making hot drinks. Very highly recommended.