Having dreamt about Venice for so many years, I was prepared to be a little disappointed. It was better than I had hoped! Marco's apartment is away from the maddening crowds. It' s cool, very spacious ( bigger than the photos make it look). And it was like staying in a grand old home from another time. Except for the nice mod-cons like dishwasher, etc. loved leaning out the windows and watching the gondolas going by. Tip: getup early and take a 6.30 vapperetto down the Grand Canal. Only a few early morning commuters to share the quite and stunning beauty with. Rialto Bridge before 7.30....you'll have the place all to yourself. Take the 40 minute boat ride to Burano, skip Murano. Thank you Marco!