Ivan is a wonderful host. He met us in a public place near the apartment and walked us in, pointing out restaurants and grocery stores along the way.
Once inside, Ivan showed us around the apartment. Everything was clean and in good working order, he even stocked the fridge with fresh fruit, water, yogurt, orange juice, and two types of milk (for our toddler). He also provided coffee, bread, and croissants! It was so nice to not have to worry about food right away.
The apartment itself is beautiful! A canal view from both living room windows and both bedroom windows. Built in the 1700's the apartment is full of charm with ceiling is exposed beams and the back side of the roofing tiles. The windows are also very sound proof and the wooden shutters blocked out light perfectly, which made for a pleasant sleeping experience. Our toddler had no problem napping in the middle of the day.
The location was perfect too. We loved being close walking distance to everything while still being far enough away from the crowds. There was a wine bar below us and gondolas in the canal, three grocery stores within two minutes walk, cafés/gelato/shopping out the door, the water bus to Murano and Burano was a short 10 minute walk, water bus on the Grand Canal was a two minute walk.
Can't say enough about this place and Ivan's hospitality. If we are lucky enough to return to Venice, we will try to book with Ivan again!