Has anyone had any experience with an english speaking guide in Venice?
Do you have any suggestions on how to find someone.

I don't have an answer to your question but I do have a suggestion:

Venice is best enjoyed by wandering around, almost aimlessly, and coming upon pleasurable surprises. In other words, skip the idea of hiring a guide.

Everyone is different, and has different expectations and preferences. That said, I am 100% in synch with TuckH on this question.

Getting deliberately lost in Venice is one of life's singular experiences.

It is fun to get lost in Venice, and even though I have been there 10 times, it still happens to me! If you are looking for a guide to give you more information as you walk, take a look at this site:
www.tours-italy.com

I emailed the Italy Tourist Bureau and requested information and a good walking map of the cities I will be visiting. They sent a wonderful packet of maps and booklets. And a large map of Italy.

All very nicely printed - great pictures and history.

I wish I remembered the name but I don't. My traveling companion has small pamphlet style maps, that were self-guided walking tours in various parts of the city. They were made by a woman. Anyone know what I mean?

I agree with the getting lost advice. But it's also nice to be able to read (or hear from a guide) about some of the history of the buildings, etc.

Here's a discussion in SlowTrav http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums/a...5/m/9001059454

Hi Morgan - - These companies have all been recommended here for Venice tours:

www.walksinsidevenice.com

www.tours-venice-italy.com/

http://www.tours-italy.com/venice-ci...e_in_1_day.htm

www.citytoursinvenice.com

www.venicescapes.org

www.aguideinvenice.com

www.ilburchiello.it

Hope this helps ...

Steve