Postcards from... Booklet 2022

Aman Venice is as luxurious and charming as the city it finds itself in. Located in a palazzo by the side of the picturesque Grand Canal, the hotel includes private gardens and boasts a number of decorative treasures, including gilded ceilings, 16th-century wall coverings and Tiepolo frescoes. Despite its historical influences,the accommodation includes a range of modern amenities and facilities. Many of the suites have sumptuous sitting rooms with stunning views of the GrandCanal. For full Renaissance immersion opt for the Alcova Tiepolo Suite, which is adorned with exquisite frescoes by the master himself. The Pick of Venice Hotels Highly recommended luxury hotels with very different appeal in prime locations Grand Canal Joy in Giudecca With sweeping views across the Venetian lagoon, the 96- room Cipriani is the definition of luxurious perfection. Unlike its competitors across the water It is set amid lush gardens and vineyards on peaceful Giudecca Island, just five minutes from Saint Mark's Square via the private courtesy launch. Sumptuous rooms and suites capture the essence of Venice with Murano glass, antique mirrors, and fabrics by Fortuny and Rubelli. Dine on the wooden terrace of the Cip's Club restaurant, facing the Doge's Palace, or in the stunning Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant. Swim in the Olympic-size pool or enjoy a massage in the CasanovaWellness Centre. Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel Aman Venice In The Know As you would expect in a tourist hotspot Venice has gained a reputation for overpriced but poor quality eateries. This does a great disservice to the true heroes and custodians of the of a rich culinary heritage - you just need to know where to go... out of the lagoon in the spring which are cooked and eaten whole, shell included. Taking time to appreciate Venice is so important because otherwise it will be just a fairground attraction. Be inquisitive, walk down the narrowest alleys to discover quiet squares. Get a local to recommend their favourite corner and the true Venice will reveal itself. A likely destination might be the district of Cannaregio, which is located near the railway station. It is the area with the most bridges and was the Jewish ghetto of the city. Book a tour with the Jewish Museum to learn about the history of the area, or explore and try to find the three ‘hidden”‘synagogues (look for domes and arched windows which identify these places of worship). Talking about tight spots, squeeze into Calle (street) Varisco. Located within one of the most secluded places of the city in a series of intricately twisting alleys, the dead-end street of Calle Varisco is surmounted by little arches and is only 53cm (21in) wide. Legend has it that murderers would be crushed by the walls should they venture down it. Come evening Cannaregio offers some of the best and most authentic nightlife in the city, especially along the Fondamenta dei Ormesini. Why not rub shoulders with the locals over drinks at Bar Timon before a delicious dinner of fresh seafood and some live music at Paradiso Perduto, a venue with a long history of great vibes and some surprise performers. Arise the next morning and plan more diversions as the crowds descend on the usual sites - where next for you? The beaches of the Lido, the colourful houses on sleepy Burano Island or a glimpse of what Venice might have looked like if tourism had not existed with a visit to the south of the lagoon to the town of Chioggia. Giudecca Absolute joy on Giudecca