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> SlowTrav > Italy > Vacation Rentals > Reviews > Venice Review 525: Vacanza Bella, Grimini, Loredan
2bed/2bath apartments in San Polo, Venice WhenApril '03, 1 week LocationThe apartments (rented by two groups of friends) were in an old palazzo, its own square block, on the San Polo/Santa Croce border. Vacanza Bella was correct in promising that it was far enough away from San Marco to be a "real" Venetian neighborhood, yet still within walking distance of all. Nearby AmenitiesTwo delicious, get-real pizza places (Due Colonne and Ae Oche) were within half a block. La Zucca about two blocks. Great neighborhood piazza with kids playing, two wine bars, a Coop and an ATM, one block. Da Fiore, two blocks. Many, many little bakeries, gift stores, bars, etc. Just perfect. Rialto Bridge about a ten minute walk. The House/ApartmentOld palazzo meticulously maintained and tastefully modernized. The owners live in the larger body of the house. The upper floor is Loredan, a 2-bedroom, 2 bath unit. An outbuilding is Grimani, another 2 bedroom, 2 bath unit with a huge den/extra sleeping area. Outstanding properties. GardenAmazingly, there is a garden for the use of Grimani's guests and -- get this -- the only privately owned (clay) tennis court in Venice! Furnishings/Cleanliness/Living AreasEvery single detail of both apartments were meticulously clean, tasteful, and charming. Well-chosen furniture, artistic touches throughout. Really, almost too nice for renters! We're not worthy! Full central air conditioning, Great heat. These are the anti-funky Venice properties! All the charm, yet none of the misery of backed-up plumbing, etc. Bedrooms/BathroomsThe beds were extremely comfortable and had lovely linens. Bathrooms were of four-star hotel quality. Just great. KitchenIngeniously designed kitchens, with everything you could want. Aesthetically pleasing to boot, and everything new. Problems or BonusesThe owners are, while extremely gracious, a bit anal about their places -- they won't rent to people with small kids -- but when you see what they've done with these remodels, you'll understand why. They agonize over every scratch on the floors. They beg you to take off your shoes when you go up to the second level of Grimani. But that is a small price to pay for perfection. Why not indulge them, as we did, and take extra good care of the apartments? We were rewarded with homemade desserts and warm, helpful advice. We're going back. Agency and Representatives (and price)I have dealth with Daniel Morneau many times, and he's always the same: completely honest, doesn't mark up his properties excessively, and makes a great match of the right property to his client's needs. We've never been disappointed. Do you recommend this vacation rental to others?We WILL stay here again, if all of you vultures aren't renting it first! Things to do in this areaEverything in Venice is within a half-hour walk or vaporetto ride from the apartment. (Many sights are under 5 minutes.) There is nothing I can say about restaurants that Shannon's upcoming book won't say better. Meanwhile, refer to her or Ruth's lists on the SlowTrav web site. This review is the opinion of a Slow Travel member and not of slowtrav.com. |
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