Vancouver Good

The final stop on my Italy trip, I did not have high expectations for Venice. Many people told us to expect a dirty, expensive, tourist trap, but we experienced an incredible, beautiful city that I’d return to anytime.

The base

There’s only one place to stay in Venice, and it’s Hotel Al Ponte Antico (Calle dell’Aseo , 5768). Owner Matteo and his staff will treat you like royalty in their boutique hotel steps away from the Rialto bridge and right on the grand canal. Imagine sumptuous Louis XV style rooms, personalized service, and a private patio overlooking the grand canal. During the evening we’d drink grappa and sit on the patio watching gondolas, boats, and the beautiful city of Venice pass us by. I felt incredibly lucky.

To do & shop

Skip the 90 Euro gondola ride. If you want to see the grand canal, hop on the vaporetto (Venice’s public transit) and cruise the grand canal for 6.50 Euros.

Artisan paper maker Paolo Olbi (San Marco, Calle della Mandola 3653) creates beautiful, handmade stationary and gift articles in Venice – perfect for your office. I picked up some beautiful cards, stationary, and a filing box.

To eat

For classic Venetian food, head to Osteria Antico Dolo (Ruga Rialto, 778), an intimate local eatery serving fresh seafood and local specialties. Try the black risotto, made with squid ink and fish (prepare for a black tongue!).

Italians eat at 8 or 9pm at the earliest. Before dinner, Venetians go to Cicchetterias, which are pre-dinner wine and tapas bars. I dug into super fresh anchovies with lemon and crisp roasted potatoes at Osteria Al Ponte “La Patatina” (San Polo, 2741/A).

Take a break from the fancy places and head to Alla Madonna Ristoranti (Calle della Madonna San Polo 594), which services up affordable, fresh cuisine in a casual setting. Don’t let the line-up scare you away – the restaurant is huge and the line moves fast.