Moving far too often in recent years, it’s basically all down to a science and part of the formula is pushing to get everything packed and ready a week before is needed for peace of mind, but more importantly to ensure a relaxing weekend escape. This year’s pick was the quick flight to Venice and a stay at Palazzo Giovanelli booked in full with airline miles.

The gorgeous courtyard is off of a tiny alley that is really best understood with Google street view before arriving as not to get lost. Many passersby also seemed enchanted and suprrised with such a courtyard amidst a shoulder-width alley of about nothing, and stopped for photos.

Upon checking in, we were greeted with a standard room that featured high ceilings and some dated decor, but hey, that’s Venice, baby.

Unfortunately the high architectural details meant for loud neighbors in an adjoining room.

A strange saloon-style doored closet was oddly voluminous as well and featured a safe and small hanging rack.

The bathroom was basic and dated and unfortunately (or fortunately) the shower failed to work in a big way. We had the option to switch rooms, and I’m glad we did as the new room was recently rennovated. Be sure to specify this is what you’d like when you book!

Much cozier and luxe, the upgraded room had a more modern feel and was far more comfortable.

The details were spot on for Venice including tassled pillows and Murano glass chandeliers.

A fairly comfortable sitting area made for a decent corner for sipping franciacorta, but an even better area for dumping coats and bags.

The bar/wardrobe area was quite sleek and had excellent space for getting ready if your partner was in the bathroom. This space, as well as the loo, definitely gave the hotel more of an upscale feel than the room previous.

The minibar was one of those excellent drawers that lent itself well to harboring foreign bottles of fizz, much better than your standard hotel fridge.

While the view was something to be desired, you only saw it when pulling back two pairs of heavy curtains and in a way it made you feel integrated in the neighborhood.

While the brekky room was a little funky, lots of rules, and staff served you from a limited buffet. While I’d give another stay to Palazzo Gionvanelli, I would advise to request a renovated room and skip the brekky in favor of a neighborhood bar for your coffee.