We had a great stay at Paola's. There is no doubt that there are a lot of stairs involved in getting to the apartment - but once you are there the space is all you need.
It got quite cold while we were in venice and we found nice duvets in the bedroom closet to keep us cosy. Be sure to get off at the rialto 'mercato' ferry stop and follow the directions not the rialto bridge stop!
Paola was very patient as we got lost and kept her waiting - she then took the time to give us some dinner recommendations and some hints about getting around.
All in all - we had a lovely time.