British Expat in Venice Debunks the 'Expensive Disneyland' Myth – Here's Why

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A New Perspective on Venice

There's something quite magical about being surrounded by water. For Tom Godfrey, a Yorkshireman who made the move to Venice in July, this sentiment has become a daily reality. He says he hasn't looked back since swapping the grey skies of the UK for the cobbled streets of the Italian city. "I don't really know how to describe the feeling, but you do pinch yourself every now and again and think, how is this place real?" he says.

Venice, often seen as an expensive and tourist-filled hotspot, has a reputation that can be off-putting. However, for Tom, who took up an internship at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection art museum while on a break from his PhD at Cambridge University, the experience has been quite different. He found that it's possible to enjoy Venice without breaking the bank.

"Of course, you can do the touristy Venice. Or you can do the side of Venice where your bill at the end of the night is €250. But you can also do the sort of Venice that I’m doing — I'm eating nicely, drinking €3 Aperols," he explains. His Instagram account, @thomasrgodfrey, has gained 32,000 followers as he shares his experiences of life in a city known for its beauty, art, history, food, and culture.

Tom highlights that while there are many opportunities to spend a fortune, it's also possible to live affordably if you know where to go. He notes that Venice is cheaper than London, especially when you know the right places to visit. "The surprise I had coming here was that I'd been to Venice before and I loved it, but I did have this feeling that it was a bit like Disneyland, and that it felt inauthentic. And this experience has completely changed my mind on that, because I've been staying in parts of town where, for whatever reason, tourists don't really venture."

He adds that while tourism can be a double-edged sword, it's essential for the city's financial stability. Around 30 million tourists visit each year, contributing significantly to the local economy. Despite initial expectations, Tom finds himself considering the possibility of living in Venice permanently.

Affordable Living in Venice

One of the biggest surprises for Tom has been the affordability of living in Venice. While some areas are expensive, he found that it's possible to find reasonable rentals between €300 and €400 per month. His employer provided a list of landlords who help keep down living costs, which is a relief compared to the typical €1,500 monthly rent in the city.

His job offers a monthly stipend of €1,000, which covers his rent and expenses comfortably. He enjoys the local coffee culture, with a daily espresso costing just €1.50. Compared to the UK, where coffee prices can exceed £4, this is a significant difference.

When it comes to dining, Tom has discovered several affordable spots. Osteria Al Squero and Corner Pub offer €3 Aperols, while Il Mercante and Chet Bar provide a slightly elevated ambiance for just €5 per Aperol. Al Chioschetto on Zattere serves wine and spritz for around €3.50 to €4. His favorite dinner spot, Pizza al Volo, offers pizzas for €8, and Gelateria Nico provides takeaway ice cream for around €3 for two scoops.

A Safer and More Enjoyable Lifestyle

Tom also notes that Venice feels safer than any place he's lived in the UK. He attributes this partly to the city's nature as an island, making it less attractive for those looking to exploit tourists. The cost of getting to Venice also deters such individuals.

The pace of life in Venice is another big draw. Work ends at 6pm, and people head to bars for a relaxed drink. Unlike the UK's more intense drinking culture, Venetians engage in conversation and show genuine interest in others. There's always something happening in the city, from masked balls to the Venice Film Festival and exhibitions on Leonardo da Vinci.

When asked if he has any regrets about moving to Venice, Tom responds simply: "None." His experience has shown that it's possible to enjoy the city without the high costs typically associated with it. From affordable dining to a safe and friendly environment, Venice offers a unique blend of charm and practicality that has left a lasting impression on him.