Hi I'm from Madrid, next January I will go to Venice for the first time, who can suggest me hotels restauarants and what to see...?<BR>kisses Dina

Dina, <BR>To start with, read the the topped thread '101 Great Things to do in Venice'.<BR>Second, put 'Venice' into the search box and lots of posts will show.<BR>Third, what about your budget for accommodation/food? <BR>Your question is far too general to give good advice.<BR>Good luck and enjoy Venice.

We have stayed at Art Deco twice in one year now and would definately stay there again. We have recommended it to others. It really is lovely and I cant believe it is only 2 stars. This is their website: www.locandaartdeco.com<BR>the recommendation is for &quot;Ristorante Ribo&quot; (with a 2 fork rating michelin highly accurate and an extremely good experience - celebrating anniversary and birthday, around 30 E. each one).<BR>[email protected]

I have found that the best thing to do in Venice is &quot;Get Lost&quot;.. You are on a island so dont worry. Just wander all the little back canals to get the true flavor of it. You will have memories and images that will follow you all the days of your life.

Regarding hotel ratings,only partially depends on the style and luxury,there are specific requirements to move up to 3 stars for example hotel art deco,have stayed there it is very nice but usu. requires an elevator to get 3 stars etc.RR

Try the Hotel Ala. There is so much to see in Venice but I agree with the other poster that said to just get lost. The neighborhoods are like a maze and it's fun to walk through and just enjoy the different shops. <BR><BR>One word of advice..shops near St. Marks are more expensive then in the back alleys. <BR><BR>Have fun and take a good coat. The breeze from the canals will be cold!