When you're in Venice, your goal is to get lost and that's what makes this place fun. It's a giant…read moremaze and you never know where you will end up and it's always a really good cheese in the end. I had a lot of fun trying to find Residenza della Spada. Even before coming here, I googled map the place and in fact, it gave me pretty straightforward directions. Turn right, walk straight, and then turn left. However, reality wasn't so straightforward. I ended up walking in circles and at one point, I thought maybe this place is like Platform ¾ where I have to run through a wall to get to another worldly dimension. Anyway, as I finally came to my senses and my GPS finally knew where it was, I found the hidden alleyway that led to this place. So as my New Yorker instincts turned on, I should have known better not to walk down a shady alleyway. But this is Venice. These alleyways are the hidden gems. And they are actually litter free.
Let me preface by saying that Residenza della Spada is not a hotel, it's more like an AirBnb but for some reason, Expedia called it a hotel. The owner lives here with his wife and kids, and has several vacant rooms for people to stay. He also operates a bar lounge on the ground level. It's rustic yet homey. Not sure about my husband, but I loved it. It makes you feel local. The owner is really nice. He made us breakfast spread every morning with awesomely fresh croissants and prosciutto. His cappuccino was excellent. As far as the room itself, the bed could be a little more comfortable but for a 2 night stay, I didn't really mind. However, the walls are pretty thin so you could hear your neighbors talking. Overall, I enjoyed the stay and wouldn't mind walking down the alleyway again.