Where do I start. Paolo - what a champ.
He was such a great host - he met as us at a nearby square with a big grin on his face and escorted us to our lovely apartment. On the way he pointed out some of his favourite restaurants (Ristoteca Oniga and Quattro Feri) and a gelato shop, as well as a bakery. Each time he would open the door and shout enthusiastically across the floor so that the owner would know we were his new kin. The apartment itself had everything you might need: gas stove for cooking at home (we made a pesto pasta for lunch one day), decent chill space, and a large and comfortable bed (complete with warm blankets).
Once we had dropped our bags off, Paolo took us to xxxx and treated us with a wine and a little finger food. What a welcome, thank you Paolo. He also pointed out a local pizza joint plus another great restaurant (Al Vecio Marangon). Safe to say we visited all those places recommended and were very happy as a result. These recommendations, alongside being in a great neighbourhood, meant that our short 3 night stay felt like a great insight into how the locals might live. We enjoyed the main tourist sights (Guggenheim, San Marco square) but really it was walking around, eating and drinking locally that made our stay in Venice so wonderful.
Our first night was interrupted a little by a party in the apartment above us, but Paolo had pre-warned us, apologised and promised they would finish around 11:30pm. Just as he said, things were silent around that time. Paolo did everything in his power to ensure a great stay (can't control the neighbours!) The rest of our stay was incredibly peaceful and we would definitely recommend to friends and family, plus visit again.
A friend had said we only needed a day or two in Venice for the sights, but our stay with you proved it could be enjoyed for much more than that.