This was one of our best vacations we've had outside the US. Communication with Laura was easy. She immediately responds to inquiries. All we needed to do was follow simple instructions from the Marco Polo Airport to get to her apartment and I would take her advice on which route to take.
She met us at the St. Stae station which was only about a couple of minutes away and only three bridges to cross from her apartment. From St. Stae you can easily go to anywhere in Venice using the vaporetto so I would recommend getting the transport pass. Her apartment also was about 5-10 minutes walk from the Rialto bridge and about 20 minutes walk from San Marco square. Initially we thought it was longer because we kept getting lost the first day but when we got familiar with neighborhoods, it was a breeze.
Laura's apartment had more space for two people and was very comfortable. The kitchen was fully equipped and even the bathroom has a washer/dryer combo which we were able to take advantage of. Laura provided us with enough laundry detergent as well. The apartment was quiet, very clean, very private and very secure. The king-sized bed was comfortable but a little too soft for us being used to firmer mattress but it would never deter us from using her apartment again.
There are great restaurants close by as well as a couple of grocery stores. You will need to bring or purchase your own bath soap and shampoo. One of her recommended restaurants very close to the apartment had excellent ratings in google--Antiche Carampane. There is also a souvenir shop close by which we used as a landmark coming from Rialto bridge area. The Indian guy keeping the store in the evenings will give you great discounts :)
Try to attend an opera in Venice. They have the most talented singers and musicians anywhere in the world. Prices of food and beverages will be highest in popular squares and lower a short distance from them including souvenir items. Venice is a lovely city no matter what you do and staying at Laura's place made our trip such a delight. Laura was an excellent host and we highly recommend staying at her place.