WOW! What a great find. Where do I even begin?
Firstly, communication with Paolo pre-arrival was impeccable. He will send you a message that has step by step photo directions on how to get to the apartment when you get off the water taxi -- it could not have been simpler when arriving (on foot, since there are no cars!) in a new city. It was approx 5 min walk (pulling luggage) from the water taxi stop to the residence.
Secondly --- this house is *HUGE* - and it is all yours! The rooftop deck overlooks the square and it's an awesome way to spend an evening after sight-seeing.
The apartment was in impeccable shape. Clean as a whistle and ready for us when we arrived. Could not have been happier.
The location is central to everything you'd want to see and do in Venice. Most things are a relaxing 10-20 minute walk through this beautiful city. Many amenities close by (less than 5 mins) --- bars, restaurants, grocery, etc.
Some tips:;
1. follow his photographic step by step directions and do not use G***le Maps when you're getting off the water taxi. His directions show you exactly where to go and how to get there if you are arriving by train, car, or plane. Very helpful. I downloaded the photos to my phone before leaving in case I didn't have internet on arrival (I did!)
2. Entrance to the residence is via electronic code. Keep this written down as well
3. The residence may not be appropriate for people with mobility issues -- When you come in the front, you are immediately in a stairwell up to the first floor, and then another set of stairs up to the second. I needed my husband's help getting my heavy bag up the stairs, so be aware (trust me, though, the climb is worth it!)
4. The access to the rooftop terrace is through the bathroom on the 2nd floor, behind a curtain. The stairs are very narrow (like stairs to an attic), so be aware of that, as well. (again, the climb was worth it!)
5. On the first story, you will find a nicely appointed kitchen, a bedroom, and a living room / dining room with a TV as well as a full bathroom with shower, toilet, sink, and bidet
6. On the second story is another bedroom, a larger bathroom (with access to the terrace) with a toilet, sink, bidet, and shower, as well as the master bedroom which overlooks the square.
7. The windows come with outdoor shutters -- USE THEM!!! the street can get noisy and they totally block the sound from waking you, and keep the room(s) nice and dark in the AM.
8. The living room and the master bedroom (and the terrace) both overlook the square. It was lovely sitting inside and outside just watching the people go by.
Thank you, Paolo, for the most wonderful visit to Venice -- our first time there!
Ciao