We have now returned from a cross-country trip of Italy from Rome, Bologna, Sirmione, Verona and finally Venice. Andrea met us on San Marco's side of Rialto Bridge and helped with our cases up the 3 floors to the apartment, located directly off a corner of Rialto Market. The apartment was exactly as described and perfect for our needs. Everything was furnished to a high standard, the kitchen and bathroom were very modern and thoughtfully implemented. Andrea spent a good half hour in excellent English, discussing with us where to go and what to see dependant on our interests, we were extremely impressed with him and the time he spent welcoming us.

The location is fab, a 2 minute walk from Rialto Bridge and the Grand Canal, where you can navigate to your destinations easily (we became pro's at crowd dodging in rush hour foot traffic!). Andrea gave us a fantastic tip which was to walk to St Maria of Salute Basilica on the South-East tip of Dorsoduro and follow the coast around, it was a stunning walk with fantastic views of the other side of the river, especially Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore in La Giudecca. We even stumbled past by perfect chance on some live musicians playing one of our favourite songs - Elton John - Rocketman.

We spent a lovely night sat on the jetty on the Grand Canal, around the corner from the apartment, sipping Nastro Azzuro & cocktails from the nearby bars with the locals, one who had his boat playing music which had everyone singing along - easily the best free bar on the island! Another of Andrea's recommendations for food and drink was a restaurant close to the Frari Basilica called Muro Frari, where we found (on two occasions), the multitude of pizza's to be perfect, the juiciest steak we have tasted in Italy, not to mention the delicious house wine or the fantastic Oktoberfest hefe weizen beer's on draught which naturally Jake fell in love with - molte grazie Andrea for this - it kept Jake in good spirits through all of our trip. We purchased fresh fish and vegetables one day from the famous Rialto Mercato and enjoyed cooking up a storm in the wonderful kitchen.

As the previous reviewer has said - yes there are bugs which bite, however you will find this all over Italy it is to be expected. As for the rubbish? Bins were collected each day before 9am. Contrary to others, we found Venice very clean and picturesque. San Marco is a wonderful hub to stay with vibrant nightlife and interesting locals, we would recommend it to anyone. Thank you Andrea & Alessandra for your perfect accommodation and hosting skills you were wonderful! Ciao, Charlotte & Jake x