Palace Bonvecchiati

Venice in October

Went to celebrate 20th anniversary. Stayed in a 3 star hotel in Venice before and this was certainly more posh and the price tag reflected that as well. Nice amenities that we were not aware of: breakfast was included at the restaurant, 30 minutes per room of private sauna, jacuzzi or steam sauna time per day. Hotel is a 5 minute walk to St. Mark's Square etc.

Staff are very well dressed and say the right words, but I never sensed any authenticity, warmth, friendliness, etc.. I asked for assistance on several occasions from different people related to getting to the airport, a restaurant recommendation, directions, etc and the responses were typically curt and robotic. The only exception was the porter/bellhop from the Philippines, he was great. I would expect more from a 4-star hotel when I'm paying $400-500 per night. It was as if they didn't like their jobs. The same experience was noted in the restaurant which was located in the sister hotel next door. Doubt I will return given the opportunity.