Elite Traveler November-December 2017

elite traveler NOV/DEC 2017 117

TOP SUITES

SAN GIORGIO TERRACE SUITE Baglioni Hotel Luna With awe-inspiring views of San Giorgio Island and St Mark’s Basin, this decadent suite comes complete with a 350 sq ft private outdoor terrace, which provides ample space to entertain or kick back and unwind within an intimate setting. The main living area, consisting of a stylish master bedroom, second bedroom, two Carrara and Greystone marble bathrooms and dining area, has a number of authentic handmade Venetian features. Details include wood panel walls, Venetian and French precious fabrics and original Fortuny lamps. The suite includes access to a complimentary private water taxi, and private cocktail making and cooking classes. From $5,324 per night. Contact Laura Marra, reservations manager, l.marra@baglionihotels. com, +39 041 528 9840, baglionihotels.com

MUST-DO ACTIVITIES

1. Palazzo Ducale The Doge’s Palace is one of the most enduring and popular tourist attractions in Venice. Formerly the residence of the most senior member-elected official of Venice and Goa (697-1797), the original building, of which no traces remain, dates back to the ninth century. It is best explored in the company of an expert guide and outside peak hours. The Aman offers an exclusive and intimate after-hours (7pm-10pm) tour for hotel guests. You are guided through the grand halls of the Doge’s Palace by a private guide, who brings to life the history and treasures of this icon of Gothic architecture. From$2,603 per visit. Contact Francesco Campagna, concierge, amanvenice.ccg@aman.com, +39 041 270 7333, aman.com 2. Fondaco dei Tedeschi This Renaissance four-story building was first developed in 1228. The word fondaco means ‘store-house’ and the building was first used by German merchants as an important trading center for goods passing through Venice from the Orient. Today, the site preserves its historic purpose but as a modern, restyled luxury shopping destination. Boasting more than 300 brands, it includes national and international favorites such as Fendi, Valentino, Gucci and Armani alongside an authentic curation of local Venetian treasures. The architecture and interior are as plush as the goods that it showcases, with gold and marble splashed throughout. Be sure to visit the top floor for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Venice skyline. Contact Anna Adriani, communications &marketing director, anna.adriani@dfs.com, +39 041 313 7015, dfs.com 3. Vetrevia Artistica Vivarini Opened in 1967, Vetrevia Artistica Vivarini offers bespoke Murano glassblowing tours, with artisans demonstrating this famed Venetian technique — turning inflating molten glass into a bubble — from their workshops. The two-hour experience also includes a detailed history of this unique artistry, which dates back more than 1,000 years to 1280. The factory produces a number of high-end products including lighting fixtures, glassware and sculptures. Historically, the factory has forged works of internationally renowned painters and sculptors such as Yoko Ono and Armand Pierre Fernandez. At the end of the tour guests can browse and purchase an array of dazzling and unique Murano works from the on-site shop. Contact Michele Zampedri, president, michelezampedri@gmail. com, +39 041 736 077, vivarini.it

HEMINGWAY PRESIDENTIAL SUITE The Gritti

The Gritti pays tribute to one of its most notable residents by naming the presidential suite after the famous writer. As part of a $41m refurbishment in 2013, the signature Hemingway suite was fully restored. The suite, decorated with stucco walls and ceiling, is created out of two first-floor rooms where the author regularly stayed during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Situated on the piano nobile of the Gritti, the Hemingway offers unparalleled views of the Grand Canal. The suite, with a water-facing living room and bedroom, grand master bedroom and marble bathroom, has both a contemporary and cultural feel. From $10,767 per night. Contact Paola Toniolo,

reservations manager, paola.toniolo@ luxurycollection.com, +39 041 296 1111, thegrittipalace.com

ALCOVA TIEPOLO SUITE The Aman Venice The Alcova Tiepolo is the ideal stay for those seeking a romantic getaway. Widely speculated to be where George and Amal Clooney spent their wedding night, it is an opulent and discreet residence. While lying in the king-size bed and relaxing in the generously sized bath, guests can feast their eyes on frescoes by the acclaimed Venetian painter Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. The 1,108 sq ft suite’s tall windows show off the Aman’s beautiful and well-kept private garden, while a separate sitting room features hand-painted 18th-century Chinoiserie canvases. Use of the suite also includes a complimentary mini bar. From $4,614 per night. Contact Claudia Schwarze, general manager, cschwarze@aman.com, +39 041 270 7333, aman.com