My friend, Helen, had long wished to see Venice at Carnivale; and I was charged to realise a dream. With the help of these folk - Italian Short Breaks - that was achieved. Our hotel - the Metropole - was of the first water. One of those places that does cost a little more but that shows you from the start that your investment is going to give excellent returns. From our arrival (by water taxi) via many days of pampering (and not overlooking unspeakably excellent hot chocolate) we felt welcomed and indulged throughout. A highlight of our trip was to participate in the Mascheranda; which we both really enjoyed. That, together with walking through the city in our costumes - not necessarily something I had been looking forward to, by the way - proved an excellent experience and really made us feel part of the carnival rather than just observers. Well done, Italian Short Breaks; and many thanks to you and yours all.