Loredana was a great host for our first visit to Venice; she was quick to respond to any questions we had and the apartment was well equipped. There were lots of great, non-touristy places to eat close by and a market very close by to get groceries. Her son Riccardo met us at the San Zaccaria vaporetto stop and helped us carry luggage and get checked in. There was a bit of a heat wave while we were staying (90-94F), so she got an electric fan (ventilatore) for us to help move a little more air around the apartment. The apartment was cool and refreshing whenever we'd return. We did not notice any smoke smell during our stay. For just a few minutes walking, you can find a gondolier to take you on the back canals, or have a nice evening in St. Mark's Square (highly recommended after dark) The ferry terminal Nove is a 15 minute walk and gives you access to the islands of Murano and Burano. We bought a 48 hour tourist pass and went everywhere we wanted, then walked the rest of the time. We loved our stay and hope to come back again. Grazie Mille!