Staying in Giovanna's flat was a pleasure. She met us at an easy to find square and took us to the flat which is very comfortable and bigger than it looks in the pictures.

The apartment is in the center of town, less than five minutes from the Rialto, and a fifteen to twenty minute walk from all of the other main attractions. Being so close to the Rialto means that it is also an easy walk to the fish and vegetable market, which is a big plus. Although there are some good restaurants in town and Giovanna's suggestions were excellent, it is easy to go wrong with so many tourist traps around. The fresh produce, however, is extraordinarily good, and cheap! The fishmongers, grocers, delis and butchers around the market were a highlight of the trip, and a bonus of staying in a flat.

Another benefit worth mentioning is that the internet at Giovanna's is a good quality, high speed connection. We easily downloaded a movie one night and never had any trouble logging on.

Also, Giovanna lives nearby and responded to emails very quickly, so you will not feel lost and abandoned in a strange city!

We did experience one drawback, however, my girlfriend is petite and because she is light, uses a soft tension mattress at home. She found the bed too hard and if you also require a soft mattress then this is worth bearing in mind, but if you use a medium one you will be fine.

Overall, the experience of staying at Giovanna's was excellent, the flat was lovely and she was an excellent host. I would certainly go back and would recommend it to anyone. I have stayed in hotels in Venice before, but I would never do so again.