Grande Fratello and L'Isola dei Famosi have attracted the biggest criticism in Italy in recent years.

BBC: The Apprentice

"My water bill is a fourth of what it would be if I had this area covered with grass, " says Mr. Isola.

WSJ: High Water Marks

When MS Costa Concordia struck the rocks off Isola del Giglio Jan. 13, more than just a single cruise liner ran aground.

FORBES: Marketers Plan. God Laughs.

Alternatively, take a short gondola or ferry ride from the boat stations in front of the Palazzo Ducale, next to Piazza San Marco, to the Hotel Cipriani on Isola Della Guidecca.

BBC: Hollywood and Venice: A love story

That's what Tommy Isola, a 35-year-old commercial real-estate broker in Las Vegas, discovered when he moved into an 8, 000-square-foot home with 26, 000 gallons of water features, including a large pool, waterfalls and a koi pond.

WSJ: High Water Marks

In keeping with its island resort style, it offers a wide variety of half-day excursions that are best in class, with its private boats available for charters to explore other islands such as Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore, Burano and Murano, in a style and freedom much better than the commercial tours.

FORBES: Hotels I Love: Cipriani, The Best Of Venice