EASY FIVE STARS!
The beautiful Golden Tree apartment is perched on the sunny, lively Via Garibaldi and is an exquisite home-base for exploring Venice and the other islands. For visitors to the Biennale, it is virtually next door to the Giardini, and 10 minutes to the Arsenale. The Via Garibaldi itself is spacious and filled with cafes, restaurants & food vendors (fruit & veg, bakery, fish, wine, cheese, and a general market) that serve the locals. It is close enough to the center that you can come home in the middle of the day for a rest, but far enough from San Marco that the crushing hoards of tourists are far, far away.
This very pretty apartment has a lovely view up and down the V.G., pleasant sun exposure, and is nicely appointed (AC, laundry, kitchen supplies, etc.). There is ample storage in the bedrooms to put your things away and feel that the place is your own. Our host, Giacomo, was friendly, lightning-quick responsive, reliable, and helpful.
After 5 trips to Venice to visit the Biennale, 5 different neighborhoods and apartments, in the Golden Tree my husband and I finally found the Venice sweet spot: great location; lovely, comfortable home; and welcoming host. We are definitely returning to this gem next time.