Alessandro met us at Piazzale Roma and walked us to his flat which was located in the perfect area of the city for leisurely walks and for vaporetto hopping.

The apartment is very very large so we had plenty of space to spread out and to enjoy Venice with more space than is afforded by a hotel. The apartment was very clean and orderly and simply furnished making it perfect for a short stay. AS we were working some during our stay, wireless internet was a must and the system he has in place is excellent.

I won't mention the bakery downstairs as many reviewers have already done so but it is worth a visit. Alessandro was also kind enough to give us some hints for how to explore his city in a way not overrun with tourism. The best suggestion he gave us was to take the vaporetto ride over to visit the church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Just like its far more famous cousin, the church’s campanile offers spectacular 360 degree views over the city—and across the Adriatic and, on clear days, as far as the Alps—which had a picturesque dusting of snow on top. It even has an elevator to the top (unusual in Italy).

I have bookmarked the apartment and if I can stay again for the Biennale I will most definitely be back.