Bob,

We are staying at three of the hotels you recommended. Frances Lodge in Siena, Relais Palazzo in San Quirico and Locanda Barbaringo in Venice. The only one of these hotels that I feel slightly concerned about is the Locanda Barbaringo. Is this place nice or is it seriously budget? We like charming, interesting, non corporate, but not a dive. Please give us your insight.

Grazie,

Karen

Hi kp,

Do you mean the Locanda Barbarigo?

It is not "seriously budget".

See http://www.veniceby.com/barbarigo/index.html

Hello Karen, It is a nice B&B that has some unique rooms and has one of the best locations in Venice. I love the Santa Maria del Giglio location and that is why I often suggest this place. However, the Hotel Ala is right there as well and is more full service. There is no elevator at Barbarigo and the stairs are a bit steep if that is a factor. If you decide to stay with the Locanda then be advised that you can find it directly behind the Hotel Ala. The small canal/Rio it is on is not a reason the stay there---the locations is.

Thank you Bob and Ira.

Karen

You are welcome, kp.

At Locanda Barbarigo,try to get the Smeralda room.We stayed there several years ago and we loved it. The couple who owned the place was very nice. The restaurants they recommended were very local and food was delicious.