Carnival Venice fulfills its fantasy (Availability for Piccola Perla in the middle  of the Carnival 8 to 12 February 2010) . Twelve days in February of Balls , masks and fun.Local Venetians celebrate alongside visitors from all over the world. From glamorously expensive Balls to children's fancy dress competitions, Carnival is like no other.
So the season's come round,Venice as beautiful and sparkling as ever.
I am told that for many people winter is their favourite time in Venice. Scurrying through mists it is so evocative as famous landmarks appear then vanish. Local people call to on another across quiet campo huddled in the latest cashmere and for an older generation, tiny ladies swamped in fur. Cafes steam and sparkle, while heavenly music emanates from churches and scuola.
For those who prefer this quiet Venice, softly romantic  with sunshine reflected from the snowy  Dolomites, winter is the perfect time to visit.
Venice sparkles with opera at La Fenice and numerous choirs singing in San Marco. Fabulous shops from designer clothes to famous Murano glass seem even more exquisite in winter lamplight.
 St Mark's Square softly lit along the collanades with Florian's and Quadrini's cafes inviting one in, just as they have done for the past three hundred years.
Last New Year Piccola Perla was the romantic hideaway for a couple who married on the Grand Canal.
Availability see calendar on www.ourveniceapartment.com
 
 

Venice Piccola Perla: in the mellow light of autumn. .
 The Guardian recommended Piccola Perla in 'Been There'
  Please do book early if popular times or a special date are wanted.
The autumn is a perfect time to visit the Veneto on wine tours.An hour away is the 'Prosecco trail' and my friends Anne and Mario have a B&B for the'Valopoicello trail. I stayed there in the summer and attended the most glorious production of Tosca at the Verona Arena. Fun to do a two centre holiday. The Veneto is awash with fungi, chestnuts and wine, all celebrated with little festa.