We were met by Giorgio(& her baby) at the train station and brought to her apartment. We knew that the apartment was on the 3rd floor with no lift but it looked inviting in the pictures as well as in real life! It was not far from the train station (about 3 mins). The apartment was big and good for a couple with plenty of space. It didn't smell and was bright and airy. Giorgio and Michele made us feel at home with juice/milk/bread and all the available kitchen cutlery and equipment and of course the whole place at our disposal.

They gave us tips on where to dine and places to visit. We found that it was helpful especially for our trip to Murano and Burano - we didn't book with a tour agency, but took their advice and explored via the water buses (20 euro for 24 hrs) that plied between the islands and Venice. We didn't need to follow tour schedule but was able to decide on our own when and where to go. So we took our time to explore and bought the glassware and laces from the two islands. Venice is not a huge place but walking can be confusing and tiring. The apartment is not near the tourist places which is good because it was quiet and safe. There was a small supermarket close by with many eateries and gelato places along the waterfront.

I would recommend to bring slippers as it can be quite cold after a shower. Also, the TV keeps resetting which can be disconcerting. Don't expect too many English channels. We were kept enthralled on re-runs of Law & Order & Knight Rider on the 2 available English channels when we made it 'home' after a tiring day of exploring! But you are usually not always in the apartment so it is not a big problem.

We would recommend GIorgio & Michele's place but you need to take note and be fit and able to bring your luggage up 3 flights of stairs (even if there was help). :-)