The wedding venue for Amal Alamuddin and George Clooney is as elegant as the happy couple.
The arrival in Venice. It begins with that initial glimpse of the Grand Canal, a sight even the weariest and most jaded of travellers recounts in a breathless tone. It is a view that never tires, every arrival as special as the first. Few cities are as enchanting as Venice.
Few hotels are as enchanting as Aman Grand Canal. With the waters of Venice's Grand Canal lapping at its base, stands a property so enchanting, and a guest experience so beguiling, that it redefines the luxury hotel experience. It is also, quite possibly, Venice's - perhaps even the world's, most romantic hotel. As the Clooney's, who were married here, may well attest.
Originally built as the Palazzo Papadopoli, in 1550, it reopened as Aman Grande Canal in 2013.
Considered a seven-star hotel, it has just 24-guest rooms and several very private public areas.
Private because guests don't come here to be seen. They come here not to be seen, and not to be bothered. Most guests' primary requirement upon check-in is to be left alone. They come for the service and the solitude.
As such, the hotel has no public areas, no reception, and of course, no piped music. This is a hotel built upon qualities and service that money (almost) can't buy. Leaving a guest alone, whilst ensuring that their every wish, whim, and heart's desire is anticipated, and met before they even dream of it, is the modus operandi.
This is a hotel that you will never want to leave. A hotel that you will very happily stay inside for the entirety of your stay. Apart from enjoying your suite, complete with high ceilings, pale herringbone parquet floors and views over the Grand Canal, there is the mahogany-lined library; the guest-only cocktail bar; and the dimly lit, glistening dining room - site of the Clooney nuptials. Not to mention the spa, and the private rooftop on which to take your sundowners - a Spritz will arrive with a plate of cicchetti, and you won't need to ask.
Image: Grand Canal, Venice