Hi Derek,
I thought you might like a report on your recommendations for our recent trip to Italy.
The hotel in Venice was great! Rooms were very nice, and were sufficiently large. Staff and desk employees were fluent in English and could not have been more helpful. Breakfasts were amazing. Delicious and bountiful. The "internets" (as the Italians call it) were not so good, but I find this to be the case wherever we were in Italy. The internet did not work in the rooms, but (sometimes) one could get a connection in the lobby. Nevertheless, the staff were very helpful and tried to get us connected in the rooms. I think this is just an Italian problem--no big deal.
We also liked the hotel because mosts guests were from English speaking nations: New Zealand, Australia, Scotland, few Americans. I know that some prefer to be in hotels where there are more Italians, but we liked being with English speaking people. It was a great experience. Also...the location is perfect and easy to find. The hotel is probably equal distance from the Rialto and San Marco. My goodness...how crowded Venice is, but how happy everyone is to be there.
We also got to experience "high" water and had to take our shoes off to get back to our hotel since San Marco Square and surrounding places were flooded. It was kind of festive and lovely to see. I've been to Venice five times and have never experienced high water--rare in May. The train ride was lovely from Florence.
As for the the transports to and from the hotel: Our departure from Venice with David was a good experience. David offered to help with luggage, helped assist us getting into the boat, and was extremely courteous and reassuring. The transfer from the boat to the van and to the airport went extremely smoothly.
Thanks so much Derek. I will definitely call on your services again. We had a wonderful trip.
With kind regards.
Karen .Y