When we came to Trip Advisor to find our lodging in Venice we had some pretty lofty goals. We wanted to find a place where we had a view of the canal from out the window, to be close to Piazza San Marco, and for it not to cost us an arm and a leg. After much scouring we found Niko's flat and booked for three nights.

From the beginning everything was amazing. We got a late departure from Pescara and had some help in arranging our late arrival. The staff at the hotel (where you check in to get your keys to the flat) were extremely helpful in assuring us we would be able to arrive past midnight and get setup. Upon arrival the staff checked us in quickly and escorted us to the spacious flat. Our bed was clean and comfortable and we enjoyed a good night's sleep.

Upon waking the next morning we were treated to a view out the window that even the photos on Trip Advisor could do no justice to. Gondoliers were busy chatting on the bridge. waiting for early tourists. A gondola full of tourists drifted below and excitedly waved and snapped pictures, no doubt thinking we were locals. The thing is we FELT like locals. For three days our flat made us feel at home in one of the world's most amazing places. We were a very short walk from all sorts of shops, restaurants, and major sights. Our stay was incredible, and our flat was a decidedly key element to that experience. I paid the bill with a smile, knowing what an amazing value it was.

The best thing that can be said of a place is that when you come back, you know you won't have to look for a place because you've found it. We know that whenever this flat is available on our returns to Venice, we have a home.