Having always been on my bucket list, I was somewhat apprehensive to see if Venice would live up to my high expectations, after recently spending an unforgettable 3 nights there I can certainly say it did!
I arrived on a bright winters day and after a few wrong turns and lots of laughing my partner and I arrived at the stunning Liassidi Palace hotel, where we were staying on a bed & breakfast basis. This hotel is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection and the moment I stepped foot in the striking reception, I understood why. This beautiful boutique hotel has an unbeatable location in a quiet area overlooking the canal yet is literally just a minutes walk from St Marks Square.
From the moment I checked in, I felt instantly relaxed, this hotel is very grand and luxurious yet in no way pretentious. Our room (Canal view, Junior Suite) was very spacious with two balconies overlooking the canal, although the hotel is historic the room still had all the modern touches a discerning guest would expect such as whirlpool bath, LCD TV and Minibar.
After unpacking it was time for a pre-dinner drink in the hotel’s picturesque courtyard, although we were there in February we were still able to enjoy an Al Fresco drink as the area had outdoor heaters. I was pleasantly surprised upon receiving our bill to find our cocktails were only 4 Euro each!.
Before going to Venice I asked people for recommendations, many people said simply wander around and soak in the atmosphere and charm. Being somewhat of a planner I felt the need to pre-book excursions and map out which restaurants to visit, my advice now would be don’t! Of course if you have a ‘must see’ then pre-booking is advisable but get your walking shoes on and simply explore, who knows what gem lies hidden around the next narrow corner. Take a Gondola ride, have a spritz (local drink – yummy!) overlooking the Rialto Bridge, take a trip up the Campanile and EXPLORE!
I am already planning my next break to this magical city and am excited to see what I will discover on one of my many future trips to Venice.
