We took a morning train from Florence to Venice Santa Lucia Train Station.
All happy to be at the legendary city floating on the water
A dark, scrawny man approached us and offered his service to push our luggage to our hotel.
We were intrigued by this simple machine that the man used to manoeuvre up and down the many step-bridges of Venice. Each time, we wondered how he was going to do it but every time he moved the carrier quite effortlessly up and down the steps without pausing for a breath.
It certainly wasn't an exaggeration when I read from the internet that Venice has 'many bridges'!
We stayed at Palazzo Odoni, a beautiful Venetian apartment that felt homely and comfortable.
It was situated along one of the many canals. I should think just about every apartment or building in Venice is just next to a canal!
It looked unassuming from the outside and we could have missed it if not for the luggage man who told us this was it.
It looked a little run-down after we pushed open the door. I was a little worried.
The many steps up the apartment
The luggage man left after we reached the apartment so we had to lug the heavy luggage ourselves up the stairs. Then ...
we were shocked to find another long flight of stairs, albeit carpeted one, awaiting us on the inside!
Needless to say, we huffed and puffed by the time we reached the reception counter.
It was a cosy reception though.
We were given the keys promptly and directed to our room.
The girls wowed when we entered the room.
Both wanted the canopied bed but I told Coco that Baby had helped me choose this place and I had given her my word that she would have this bed.
So Coco settled for this nonetheless lovely bed
And this is William's and mine, just back to back with Baby's bed
Of course, had to inspect the bathroom
Nothing Venetian about the bathroom, but it was fine by us
The pretty breakfast room
Very thoughtful and delicate arrangements and decor
Someone raved that they served 'the best croissants'.
It was good indeed.
Cereal corner
Did I mention that even the room key is beautifully accessorised?
Just outside the stay
While Venice is radiant and beautiful like a young maiden in the day, she could be quite eerie when night falls. And we are not talking about just the steps up our stay.
Would I recommend this place? The location is not that near to the tourist attractions. I knew that before I booked it. Although others maintained that it was 'walkable', 'within walking distance', but to someone who prefers to stay within a 3-minute walk to the train station in most cities, a 15- to 20-minute walk, even if it's leisurely, to the central area is quite far for me.
I chose the place for the experience and I was not disappointed. Really lovely place! Staff were helpful and pleasant. This place makes for one of the reasons I have fond memories about Venice!
|
No comments:
Post a Comment