Palace Bonvecchiati, Venice

Advantages: Location, decor and super-efficient concierge
Disadvantages: Pricey for some

...The Londra Palace is one of the oldest hotels in Venice, having first opened its doors in 1860. Perhaps its most famous visitor, at least in terms of what he did there, was the Russian composer Tchaikovsky who actually wrote his Fourth Symphony there. Having just heard a rendition of this work by the London Philharmonic Orchestra in Torino it somehow seemed appropriate to stay there. An initial word of caution. If you ever arrive in Venice in the middle of a storm, maybe it is best to avoid a water taxi. Quite apart from the prohibitive fares (a typical two mile or so ride from the railway station to Piazza San Marco will set you back over £40) it can be DANGEROUS! The boat lurches like a bobcat when it moors beside a jetty and as the driver hols you have to jump onto a rather narrow and possibly slippery pier.... one step wrong... Read review

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Advantages: Architecture, Art, History
Disadvantages: Restoration causes issues

...- Doge's Palace - If you land in Venice from the sea, as did those who came inland by ship, the first thing you see rising out of the water is the unmistakable shape of the Doge's Palace - the city's most famous building built to show the citys wealth and the Doges power WHAT IS IT?? For centuries the Doge's Palace had three fundamental roles: as the Doge residence, the seat of government and as the palace of justice. This was where some of the most important decisions for Venice's, and even Europe's destiny were taken. THE DOGE The system of elected doges was as singular as everything else about this very singular city, and lasted for 1000 years. A vast bureaucracy of elected civil servants, committees and councils was presided over by the only figure elected for life, the doge. He played a huge role in steering policy... Read review

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Advantages: Beautiful rooms; Historical'; loads to see
Disadvantages: Huge!!

...Hampton Court Palace is about one of the 60 palaces built for King Henry VIII in about 1513. In my opinion, it must be the grandest and mightiest of all the Palaces with over 1100 rooms, acres upon acres of garden, mazes, tennis and bowling courts. It is located next to the River Thames in London. It took me, my mum and step-dad just 1 1/2 to drive there from Portsmouth. The castle is relatively well signposted and it's mainly straight road and motor way with few confusing turn-off's but then again,this is only relavant from where I am travelling from. We passed through some lovely old villages on the way so the journey was pleasing. You can also catch the train of course - the station is basically right next to it! When you arrive, there is a car park of which, you pay for on departing. It costs £3.50 for 3 hours and an extra 50p... Read review

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