Veronica speaks perfect English so there is no issue in communication at all. The apartment is only about 8 to 10 minutes walk to the Rialto market where Venice comes to live! It is situated at a quiet lane with good access to grocery shops, restaurants, bakery and supermarket. The apartment is about 500 years old so it cannot be compared with modern apartment found else where. However, the feeling of connected to the pass is really the reason you would want to stay in the apartment. We like it very much! Oh yes, there are plenty of books about Venice placed in the apartment, plus the local tips provided by Veronica has made our stay extra special!