What can we say that hasn't already been said about Maria and her apartment..? Nothing...! Our stay truly lived up to all our expectations based on previous guests' reviews. The location of the apartment was perfect for what we wanted - to be in the middle of 'real life' for our first visit to Venice (and indeed Italy...) but handy to everything. Getting to and from the airport is so easy (a very short walk around the corner from the Alilaguna Orange Ca' Rezzonico stop). The apartment is just off the side of the bustling square and it has the most perfect view in all directions (from ALL the windows, not just the huge 'sun room' section - but that really is the only place you want to be when you're in and awake! It is one of the best parts of the experience.... when you are sitting up there with a glass of wine/Prosecco or coffee watching the world go by, you too will understand what we mean...!!) Maria had everything we could ever need in the apartment and we found the bed very comfy - we slept really well during our 4 night stay. It's lovely to listen to the odd peal of bells and we didn't find any of the gentle background noises unwelcome, just a part of the life we wanted to experience. Like all the other guests, we recommend you try Maria's suggestions for shops, restaurants etc - we did and found them excellent! It also gave us the confidence to try other places and order local specialities. We spent our time walking around and exploring - we filled our days so easily, we need to return to go to all the other places we want to enjoy (including Murano/Burano). San Marco is an amazing place to visit in spite of the crowds - we went early to enjoy it when it was less hectic. A short queue for the Campanile Bell Tower was worth the breath taking views (but Maria's tip for the terrace beside the Rialto Bridge was also great and free! Depending when you want to go, you can just turn up or you may have to book a slot - you can do this electronically on the top floor if needed - the shop itself is worth a wander if that's your thing...!!) There are so many things to do around the apartment that you'll be spoilt for choice (our first evening we followed Maria's suggestion to walk along Zattere for a drink (Bellini!) at sunset...) but if you can drag yourself away, all the other areas are gorgeous... for some peace and quiet if you need it, walk along the Biennale and enjoy some greenery and calmer spaces... there are simply too many things we could recommend - go and stay at Maria's place and wander - you'll find your own piece of heaven.... Thanks again Maria!