First and foremost, the apartment was wonderful and a very very short walk from the main train station in central Venice (not Mestre).

We were pleasantly greeted at a local water taxi stop, and then given a quick walk through of the neighborhood shops and restaurants (5-10 minutes) just as a point of reference. It was quite helpful.

The apartment was spacious and wonderfully situated. Slightly off the beaten path, but still only about 7-10 minutes walk to the main train station in Venice. The neighborhood is residential but within a stone's throw from a great local market and main thoroughfares.

The host was charming and helpful. The apartment could easily have slept 4, although just myself and my girlfriend stayed.

The kitchen was great, and there is a very nice back porch and table area, where we were able to enjoy a glass of wine or beer during the sunset.

The wireless internet worked great. The fridge was very cold, which kept our water bottles cool as ice (you can turn it down if you choose).

Also the area is in a spot where locals clearly go to have a drink and chill out at the end of the work day...

All in all, it was a great find and our host couldn't have been more welcoming and pleasant. Easy to contact and very pleasant.

I would highly recommend this listing l and the host as well.

I hope one day to return.