Laura was very welcoming. We corresponded by text messaging prior to our arrival in Venice, and at her initiative she walked to meet us at Piazzale Roma, where we had dropped off our rental car. She then led us (down streets and over bridges) to her apartment, helping us to manage our luggage along the way. She showed us around the apartment and gave us a briefing on the neighborhood, including places to walk, eat and shop (including the food market from which we bought most of our staples during our stay).