theveniceneighbours.com

Local suggestions to live Venice at its best / for its best

Autore: Timmy

  • Keybox vs Accoglienza

    keybox vs accoglienza

    Un Approccio Umano per Migliorare l’Esperienza degli Ospiti

    TL;DR: L’accoglienza personale supera l’uso dei keybox in termini di soddisfazione degli ospiti e recensioni positive. Investire nel contatto umano è essenziale per un soggiorno sereno e proficuo.

    keybox vs accoglienza a confronto

    Nel mondo dell’ospitalità, la scelta tra l’uso di keybox e l’accoglienza personale è cruciale. Mentre i keybox offrono comodità, l’accoglienza personale garantisce un’esperienza più soddisfacente per gli ospiti.

    Motivazioni

    1. Controllo della Qualità: Chi assicura che la casa sia in ordine? I piccoli dettagli, come la pressione della caldaia o le tende in ordine, spesso sfuggono al personale delle pulizie. Le piccole manutenzioni, come il cambio di una lampadina o un sifone lento non comportano una grande lamentela, ma un piccolo disagio che influisce sull’esperienza globale. Un controllo personale garantisce un soggiorno senza intoppi.
    2. Incontro con gli Ospiti: Consegnare le chiavi tramite keybox e incontrare gli ospiti successivamente è scomodo, per gli Ospiti e per gli Host. Gli Ospiti devono sacrificare parte al loro tempo-vacanza, mentre gli Host devono ricavare preziosi minuti dalle loro giornate indaffarate. Più una seccatura che un piacevole incontro.
    3. Il supporto tecnologico: Sistemi moderni come Vikey o My Maison aiutano amministrativamente, ma non sostituiscono il controllo visivo come vuole la legge. Sia il Ministro, sia il Questore più volte hanno ribadito che la verifica deve essere de visu, nemmeno in videochiamata.
    4. Recensioni e Contatto Umano: L’assenza di contatto umano può abbassare la qualità delle recensioni. Gli ospiti preferiscono interagire con persone reali piuttosto che con entità digitali, specialmente per risolvere piccoli disagi o chiedere dei consigli dalle persone del luogo.
    5. Investimento nel Servizio: Esternalizzare il servizio di ricevimento è un investimento, non un costo. Garantisce un’accoglienza calorosa e un soggiorno sereno.

    Conclusione

    Incontrare gli ospiti all’arrivo non è solo un obbligo legale, ma una garanzia di serenità per loro e per te come host. Questo approccio porta a recensioni positive e, di conseguenza, a maggiori entrate.

    Soluzione

    Per migliorare l’esperienza degli ospiti, considera di ingaggiare The Venice Neighbours per un’accoglienza personalizzata e professionale.

  • L’obolo: il Contributo di Accesso

    L’obolo: il Contributo di Accesso

    Contributo di Accesso a Venezia: Informazioni e Esenzioni per i Nostri Ospiti

    Siamo felici di darvi il benvenuto nella splendida città di Venezia! Per garantirvi un soggiorno senza intoppi, desideriamo fornirvi alcune informazioni importanti riguardanti il Contributo di Accesso.

    We expect it to be like this.

    Cos’è il Contributo di Accesso?

    Il Contributo di Accesso è una tassa applicata a chiunque entri nella Città Antica di Venezia. Tuttavia, ci sono alcune categorie di persone esenti dal pagamento. Vediamo chi sono:

    1. Ospiti delle Locazioni Turistiche: Se soggiornate in una struttura turistica a Venezia, siete esenti dal Contributo di Accesso. Questo perché pagate l’imposta di soggiorno contestualmente al check-in.
    2. Residenti nel Comune di Venezia: Se vivete a Venezia, non dovrete pagare il Contributo di Accesso.
    3. Nati nel Comune di Venezia: Anche chi è nato a Venezia è esente.
    4. Minori di 14 anni: I bambini di età inferiore ai 14 anni non devono pagare.
    5. Titolari della Carta Europea della Disabilità (Disability Card): Se avete questa carta, siete esenti.

    Come richiedere l’esenzione

    Per ottenere l’esenzione, seguite questi passaggi:

    1. Visitate il sito ufficiale del Contributo di Accesso.
    2. Compilate il breve questionario alla fine del quale verranno generati i QR code dell’esenzione.
    3. Nel questionario, vi verrà chiesto il nome della struttura in cui soggiornate. Potete recuperare questa informazione da:
      • L’annuncio su Airbnb o Booking.com della struttura che avete prenotato.
      • L’appuntamento che abbiamo condiviso con voi tramite email.
      • Chiedendo direttamente al vostro Host.

    In English

    For our English-speaking guests, here’s a summary:

    The Contributo di Accesso (Access Contribution) is a fee applied to anyone entering the historic center of Venice. However, there are exemptions:

    1. Guests of Tourist Accommodations: If you’re staying in a tourist accommodation in Venice, you’re exempt from the Contributo di Accesso. This is because you pay the tourist tax during check-in.
    2. Residents of Venice: If you live in Venice, you’re exempt from paying the contribution.
    3. Born in Venice: Those born in Venice are also exempt.
    4. Children under 14: Kids under 14 don’t need to pay.
    5. Holders of the European Disability Card: If you have this card, you’re exempt.

    To request the exemption, follow these steps:

    1. Visit the official website of the Contributo di Accesso.
    2. Complete the short questionnaire to generate your exemption QR codes.
    3. In the questionnaire, you’ll be asked for the name of the accommodation where you’re staying. You can find this information from:
      • The Airbnb or Booking.com listing of your booked accommodation.
      • The appointment details shared with you via email.
      • Directly asking your host.

    We hope you enjoy your stay in Venice! 🌟🛶🏰

  • Venice Christmas Guide 2024: Discover the Festive Magic

    Venice Christmas Guide 2024: Discover the Festive Magic

    …and, of course merry christmas!

  • Madonna della Salute: A venice Pilgrimage

    Madonna della Salute: A venice Pilgrimage

    Historical Roots of Madonna della Salute

    Dating back to the 17th century, the origins of Madonna della Salute are intertwined with a vow made by the Venetians during the devastating plague of 1630. In gratitude for the city’s deliverance, the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute was erected, becoming a symbol of hope and resilience.

    From this afternoon until Tuesday, November 21st, the temporary floating bridge stands as a modern homage to the historic journey made by the Venetians. This bridge not only facilitates the pilgrims’ path but also serves as a living testament to the enduring spirit of Venice.

    Madonna della Salute: A Historical Pilgrimage Through Venice's Waterways

    Candlelight Prayers and Spiritual Resilience

    The focal point of this celebration remains the church itself, where devotees light candles and offer prayers for the health of their families and the entire city. Madonna della Salute, with her centuries-old presence, continues to be a symbol of resilience and communal strength.

    Castradina: A Culinary Journey Through Time

    No historical journey through Venice is complete without savoring the flavors of tradition. The castradina, a dish enjoyed during this celebration, carries with it the essence of centuries past. Originally a humble shepherd’s recipe, castradina has evolved into a symbol of Venetian culinary heritage.
    On the other hand, though, it is getting milder and milder, to spouse modern tastes. Enjoy it here

    Navigating Venice’s Waterways

    As you navigate the floating city during this celebration, let the flickering candles guide your way and the aroma of castradina transport you to an era of rich cultural heritage. Join the locals in this spiritual and gastronomic journey, embracing the centuries-old customs that make Madonna della Salute a timeless and cherished occasion.

  • Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano: A Celebration of Italian Craftsmanship in Venice

    Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano: A Celebration of Italian Craftsmanship in Venice

    The Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano, or Exhibition of Superior Italian Craftsmanship, is a unique event that celebrates the best of Italian craftsmanship in the heart of Venice. From September 28 to October 1, 2023, visitors can discover a wide range of handcrafted products, from ceramics and glassblowing to jewellery and furniture.

    The Salone is promoted by the Municipality of Venice and organised by Vela S.p.a. as part of a project to enhance the city’s tourist flows. The event is held in the Arsenale di Venezia, a former shipyard that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    What to expect

    Visitors to the Salone can expect to find a wide range of high-quality handcrafted products, all made in Italy. There will be something for everyone, from traditional Venetian crafts such as glassblowing and lacemaking, to more modern and innovative designs.

    In addition to the exhibition, the Salone will also feature a number of workshops and demonstrations, where visitors can learn more about the different crafts and techniques on display. There will also be a food and wine area, where visitors can sample some of the best local produce.

    Good reason

    The Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano is a must-visit event for anyone interested in Italian craftsmanship. It is a unique opportunity to discover the best of Italian craftsmanship in the heart of Venice, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

    The 5 W

    Who: The Salone dell’Alto Artigianato Italiano is promoted by the Municipality of Venice and organised by Vela S.p.a.

    What: The Salone is an event that celebrates the best of Italian craftsmanship.

    Where: The Salone is held in the Arsenale di Venezia – Bacini, a former shipyard that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You may reach it by

    • the sea walk from Celestia
    • direct ACTV Waterbus from Piazzale Roma – to Exhibition ticket holders dedicated special rate one way €5, return €8
    • standard ACTV Waterbus routes #4.1, #4.2, #5.1, #5.2

    When: The Salone will be held from September 28 to October 1, 2023.

    Why: The Salone is a unique opportunity to discover the best of Italian craftsmanship in the heart of Venice, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

    Tickets here
  • Experience the Regata Storica in Venice: A Spectacular Rowing Celebration with Competitors of All Ages

    Experience the Regata Storica in Venice: A Spectacular Rowing Celebration with Competitors of All Ages

     

    Introduction

    The Regata Storica is the most important Venetian rowing competition that takes place on the first weekend of September every year. This fascinating historical reenactment and sporting event has been a popular attraction for both locals and tourists since the mid-13th century. In this article, we’ll guide you through the celebration, the best spots to watch the races, and how to make the most of this unique Venetian tradition. Experience the Regata Storica in Venice!

    The Regata Storica: A Historical Parade and Rowing Competition

    The event starts with a historical parade at 3:30 PM, featuring dozens of Venetian boats adorned with traditional decorations, parading through the Canal Grande. Following the parade, the rowing races begin at 4:30 PM, showcasing the skills of the Venetian rowers in various age categories and boat types, including Maciarele Senior, Schie, Maciarele Junior, Giovanissimi, Caorline, Donne, and Gondolini. The competition involves different types of boats such as Mascarete a due remi, Pupparini a due remi, and Gondolini aka the Formula 1 of Venetian canals.

    Best Spots to Watch the Races and Floating Tribune

    To fully enjoy the Regata Storica, it’s essential to find a good spot to watch the races. The best locations are between San Marco and Arsenale, where you can avoid the crowds in the tiny streets and creeks along the Canal Grande. If you prefer a more comfortable viewing experience, you can reserve a spot on the floating tribune. To book your spot, visit the official website here.


    Important Information for Visitors

    During the Regata Storica, there is no water traffic in Canal Grande and from Bacino di San Marco (St. Mark’s Bay) down to Giardini. Additionally, unlike 40 years ago, there are no longer fireworks as part of the celebration. In case you need to learn more in matter of logistics, please get in touch with us.

  • Children in Venice: Activities, Tips & Venetian Adventures

    Venice, known for its captivating canals and rich history, is also a wonderful destination for families with children. Whether you are a local family or a tourist visiting this magical city, there are numerous activities that cater to all age groups. From nurseries and kindergartens to summer camps and renowned universities, Venice provides a diverse educational landscape for children.

    Education in Venice

    Venice takes immense pride in its academic institutions, some of which are among the top-notch in Italy and Europe. Ca’ Foscari, IUAV, and Accademia delle Belle Arti (Fine Arts) offer exceptional learning opportunities in various fields, nurturing young minds to reach their full potential. For musically inclined children, the Conservatorio di Musica provides a platform to hone their musical talents.

    Old-Fashioned Games and Venetian Traditions

    Venetian children cherish their cultural heritage by engaging in old-fashioned games that have been passed down through generations. In the picturesque squares, you’ll find children playing traditional games, and football, just as older generations did. The little ones have a delightful time splashing around the little fountains and expressing their creativity by drawing with colourful chalks.

    Even at a young age, Venetian children display an entrepreneurial spirit by setting up small temporary stalls on the ground. They sell their old toys and playbooks, showcasing the entrepreneurial nature that runs deep in the city’s heritage.

    Safety and Outdoor Fun

    While Venetians have a deep connection with water, it is essential to note that children do not swim or dive into the canals anymore. The city has changed, and the safety of children is a top priority.

    Instead, families can explore the lovely parks scattered across Venice, such as Villa Groggia, Giardini Reali, Giardini della Biennale, and S. Elena. These green havens offer a safe space for children to play and enjoy the outdoors.

    Tips for a Memorable Family Trip

    • Plan Ahead: Research family-friendly activities and attractions in Venice to make the most of your trip.
    • Explore with Curiosity: Encourage your children to ask questions and learn about the city’s history and culture. Institutions as Museo di Storia Naturale (Natural History Museum) and Museo Storico Navale (History Navy Museum) are well appreciated by young curious minds.
    • Stay Hydrated: Carry water bottles, especially during the warmer months, to keep everyone hydrated while exploring. Venice has one of the best Italian tap water and there are loads of little safe fountains around town.
    • Comfortable Footwear: With numerous cobblestone streets and bridges, wearing comfortable footwear is essential for a hassle-free exploration.
    • Gelato: Moreover, while exploring Venice, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the city’s famous Gelato! Treat your taste buds to the creamy and flavorful delights of authentic Italian gelato. For more on this delicious experience, check out our post about the Best Gelato Spots in Venice!
  • The Redentore festival in Venice

    The Redentore festival in Venice

    Experience the Magic of Redentore Festival in Venice: Fireworks, Traditions, and Delights

    The Redentore festival in Venice is a vibrant and enchanting celebration that takes place on the 3rd weekend of July every year. This grand event combines stunning fireworks, cultural traditions, and delectable culinary delights, attracting visitors from all over the world. Join us as we delve into the magic of the Redentore festival, explore the best spots to enjoy the festivities, and savor the traditional flavors that define this unique occasion.

    Fireworks Extravaganza: Saturday at 11:30PM

    The highlight of the Redentore festival is undoubtedly the mesmerizing fireworks display. Taking place on Saturday night at precisely 11:30PM, the skies above Venice come alive with a symphony of colors and lights. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that you wouldn’t want to miss.

    Best Spots to Catch the Spectacle

    For the best views of the fireworks, head to Giudecca, San Giorgio Maggiore, Punta Dogana, or the area between San Marco and Arsenale. These strategic locations provide panoramic vistas of the city and offer a front-row seat to the spectacle unfolding in the night sky. Remember, arriving early will ensure you secure a prime spot to witness the dazzling display.

    Reserving Your Spot on the Sea Front

    To guarantee an optimal viewing location, it’s advisable to reserve a spot on the sea front in advance. In the last few years, it is necessary to reserve a spot online for the most central areas, allowing you to secure your place without any hassle. It can be done for free on the dedicated official Municipality of Venice website. By booking early, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ll have an unobstructed view of the fireworks as they illuminate the Venetian skyline.

    Exploring Alternative Viewing Options

    If reserving a spot on the sea front doesn’t suit your preferences, you can also enjoy the festivities from other locations. Consider taking a leisurely stroll down to Giardini, where you can find a peaceful setting to immerse yourself in the festival ambiance. Alternatively, hop on a boat and head to Lido, offering a different perspective of the fireworks extravaganza from the water. Don’t forget, having a friend with a boat can make for an unforgettable experience, even if it means navigating the traffic on the bay.

    Delicious Delicacies: Traditional Redentore Foods

    The Redentore festival is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Indulge in a range of traditional dishes that are synonymous with this cultural celebration. Here are three must-try treats:

    1. Sarde in Saor: This delectable Venetian specialty features marinated sardines combined with onions, pine nuts, raisins, vinegar, and olive oil. The sweet and sour flavors mingle to create a harmonious taste that reflects the region’s culinary heritage.
    2. Bovoetti: These delectable treats are small sea snails that are a popular delicacy during the Redentore festival. Cooked to perfection and seasoned with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, bovoetti offer a unique and savory taste that seafood lovers will appreciate. Their tender texture and distinct flavor make them a must-try dish for visitors looking to indulge in the culinary delights of Venice during the festival.
    3. Bigoli in Salsa: A beloved pasta dish, bigoli in salsa showcases thick, whole-wheat spaghetti accompanied by a savory sauce made from onions, salt-cured fish, and olive oil. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the rich and flavorful experience this dish provides.

    You may either decide to enjoy these food of tradition comfortably at the restaurant (here our fav ones!) or shop at a local delicatessen and have a picnic!

    Are you craving the delicious flavors of Venice? Look no further! Our curated list of the best deli shops in Venice will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or ingredients to create your own culinary masterpiece at home, we've got you covered.

    Deli shop we love

    Locals osterie in Venice

    Traditional osterie

    Floating Boats Bridge and Candle Lighting Tradition

    A significant aspect of the Redentore festival is the floating boats bridge that connects Santo Spirito to the Redentore church. This temporary bridge, made of interconnected boats, creates a unique pathway for festival-goers to traverse. On Sunday, amidst a joyous atmosphere, locals and visitors alike gather to participate in a cherished tradition.

    Punta della Dogana

    The spiritual side of the festival

    This tradition of walking through the floating boats bridge and illuminating candles in the Redentore church adds a profound spiritual dimension to the festival, uniting people in reflection and devotion.

    As the sun sets and dusk embraces the city, people cross the floating bridge to reach the Redentore church. Once inside, they light up candles as a symbolic gesture of gratitude and prayer. The soft glow of countless flickering candles creates an ethereal ambiance, infusing the church with a sense of serenity and spirituality.

  • The Ultimate Gelato Experience in Venice

    The Ultimate Gelato Experience in Venice

    You can’t go wrong with gelato if:

    • you are looking for a refreshing and delicious treat
    • you are hot
    • you are in Italy
    • you are breathing
    • [add any other excuse]

    In case you come from the moon and you have no idea what’s what, Gelato is a frozen creamy dessert made with milk, cream, sugar and various flavours. It is similar to ice cream, but with less air and fat, which makes it denser and smoother. This is one of the main differences between gelato vs ice cream. Be ready to the ultimate Gelato experience in Venice.

    Where does gelato come from?

    Gelato has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times (blablabla). Some of the earliest ancestors of gelato can be traced to China (really?), where rice pudding was frozen with snow (nuts!) and to Persia, where grape juice was poured over snow (interesting!). In the Middle Ages, Arabs introduced sorbet, a frozen mixture of fruit juice and sugar, to Europe.

    The modern gelato was born in Italy, where it was perfected by various chefs and artisans over the centuries. One of the most famous gelato makers was Bernardo Buontalenti, who created a recipe with milk, egg yolks and honey for the Medici family in Florence in the 16th century. Another was Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, who opened the first gelato shop in Paris in 1686. If you want to learn how to make gelato at home, you can follow some of their recipes or use a gelato maker. It will be never good as in the following places, though. Get over it.

    What are the flavors and benefits of gelato?

    Today, gelato is enjoyed all over the world and comes in countless flavors and varieties. Some of the most popular flavours are chocolate, vanilla, pistacchio, hazelnut, strawberry and lemon. These are some of the best gelato flavours that you can find in any gelateria or supermarket. Gelato can also be combined with fresh fruits, nuts, cookies, cakes or syrups for extra indulgence. Nothing compared to the German Eiscafes. That’s too much. Some flavours should not be tried for decency. On the other hand, basil was nice.

    Gelato is not only tasty, but also healthy (😆). It contains less calories and fat than ice cream and more natural ingredients. It is also rich in protein, calcium and vitamins. Gelato can be eaten as a dessert or as a snack at any time of the day, but it can be also the alternative for lunch.

    Where can you find The Ultimate Gelato Experience in Venice?

    If you want to experience the authentic Italian gelato, you don’t have to travel far. You can find some of the best gelaterias right here in Venice. Here are some of the places where you can enjoy a scoop or two (hundreds) of this frozen delight:

    Gelateria Gallonetto

    • This family-run gelateria has been making gelato since 1935 using traditional methods and natural ingredients. You can choose from over 40 flavours (on rotation) including classics like crema and nocciola, as well as seasonal specialties like chestnut and fig

    Gelateria SuSo

    • This modern and cozy gelateria offers artisanal gelato made with organic milk and fresh fruits. You can find flavors like tiramisu, yogurt and mango, as well as vegan and gluten-free options.

    Bacaro del Gelato

    • Bacaro del Gelato: This small and charming gelateria offers a wide selection of flavors made with high-quality ingredients and no artificial additives. You can find flavors like pistachio di Bronte, caramelized figs and ricotta cheese cake.

    Gelateria Nico

    • This historic gelateria has been serving gelato since 1937 and is famous for its gianduiotto, a chocolate and hazelnut gelato bar dipped in whipped cream. You can also try other flavors like zabaione, amarena and torroncino.
  • Safe and Secure: Unveiling the Hidden Safety of Venice

    Safe and Secure: Unveiling the Hidden Safety of Venice


    Venice, oh bella città! A haven of safety awaits you here, with no dodgy areas or forbidden blocks to fret about. However, do keep a watchful eye for those nimble-fingered pickpockers.

    Lost Wallets and Mysterious Disappearances: Unravel Filippo’s Cautionary Tale in Venice


    Let me share Filippo’s cautionary tale: Picture a serene waterbus ride, the boat half empty, when he hops on, absorbed in a phone conversation. As he prepares to disembark, a sinking feeling envelops him – his wallet is missing! Perplexed, he retraces his steps, but alas, no sign of his wallet. How could this be?

    Nature Calls in Venice: Unveiling the Elusive Toilets and Cafés That Save the Day


    Now, let’s talk cash. You needn’t carry rolls of it in Venice, my friend. Firstly, exchanging money is a rip-off, and secondly, credit cards are widely accepted across bars, restaurants, and shops. But here’s a little tip: keep some cash handy for those moments when nature calls, as public toilets are a rarity in Italy. Fear not! Cafés come to the rescue, with approximately 80% of them offering facilities for their cherished customers.

    Whether it’s a refreshing bottle of [INSERT YOUR FAVORITE DRINK], a quick glass of wine, or a satisfying coffee, as long as you make a purchase, feel free to use their conveniences. And oh, Italians have a soft spot for coins when it comes to payment – no joking!

    CASH OR CARD? UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF CURRENCY IN VENICE AND AVOID RIP-OFFS


    Now, let’s tackle the issue of cash. Once you’ve secured enough for your comfort breaks (and settle the tourist city tax upon arrival), you’re good to go. But if you find yourself running low, head to an ATM attached to a bank. Beware the blue and yellow ATMs scattered around town like the plague, for they can charge you exorbitant fees of up to 29%.

    Now, imagine a tempting VAT refund when making your purchases. Remember, it requires showing your passport, but we typically advise against carrying your documents. Instead, snap a photo and leave the IDs safely at your apartment. Let’s not have a repeat of poor Kristy’s mishap.

    Kristy’s Misfortune: How a Seaside Mishap Turned Her Venice Adventure Upside Down


    Ah, dear Kristy! Enthusiastic about her mid-May visit to Venice, she embarked on a waterbus journey from the train station, capturing picturesque moments before even checking into her apartment. Alas, an unfortunate encounter with the waves led to the loss of her wallet, causing her to divert her central day in Venice to travel to Florence and handle the consolations of her predicament. Eventually, she had to bid farewell to Europe merely two days after setting foot in Venice.

    Safety of venice

    Remember, breaking in is not a concern in Venice, but the swift hands of pickpockers demand your attention. Keep your wits about you, my dear traveler. Mind that.