JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa Photos
Recommended Reviews - JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
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I have really mixed feelings about this resort but my true rating would be about 3.8. This resort on a private island is absolutely stunning and has a free shuttle water taxi available that leaves St.Marks square every 30 minutes. Make sure you get to the boat docking area 10 minutes prior to guarantee you entry. I love how easy it is to get to and from the hotel and back to the mainland. Hotel staff were all amicable and some even went above and beyond to assist us. The island itself had breathtaking views and I adored the lovely Olive Garden which they use to make their own olive oil. Delicious! The room was minimalistic but a bit underwhelming compared to other hotels we stayed at in Venice. The room did not include many essentials that most hotels provide (such as toothpaste) which was shocking to me. The Cucina breakfast was just decent and I would honestly skip this and go into the city for a proper meal. The meats were dry and it was almost always the same items every day, such as pastries, eggs, sausage and bacon. Rooftop bar's service was almost nonexistent and we had to walk to the bar to get our drinks continuously. Beautiful location and hopefully will be back to try other things on their resort such as their restaurant that is owned by a two Michelin star chef.
We just spent a week at the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa and loved every second. It is a gorgeous hotel with the most incredible staff. TAP Air Portugal lost my luggage and the concierge provided me with constant updates, on top of calling the Venice airport daily to ensure I got my bag back (I got it 3 days later). They also saw my date of birth on my passport during check-in (reservation was under my partner's name) and went above and beyond delivering chocolate and champagne to our room and even surprising us during breakfast. The hotel pool was so relaxing. After a day of exploring bustling Venice, nothing felt better than enjoying the city views from the pool with a nice Negroni. We also enjoyed walking the hotel grounds in the morning. These were filled with dozens of olive trees. They produce their own olive oil, which has a distinct taste due to the trees' unusual location -- we were even able to buy a small bottle and bring it back. Getting to and from Venice's St. Mark's square daily using their complimentary boat (runs every 30 mins) + staying at a private island felt very luxurious! We were worried about the boat's reliability, but it was always on time. The boat ride takes around 20 mins and it's quite beautiful and comfortable. The breakfast at Cucina was a hit, as expected. They had it all, and everything was top quality and absolutely delicious. As Titanium Members we also had access to coffees at Dispenza, a small coffee shop/bakery next to the lobby. We also tried the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, Sagra Rooftop Restaurant, and really enjoyed our al fresco dinner, albeit it wasn't the best one we had in Venice. We also did room service multiple times and both the pasta and pizza from there were phenomenal. We used SNAs and were upgraded to a Junior Suite. Unfortunately we got first level, so no balcony or crazy views, but the room was very spacious, modern, and very comfortable. We enjoyed having both a shower and bathtub. All in all, a beautiful hotel in a beautiful city. So glad we picked it.
My stay was beyond what I could've imagined! I booked a solo trip to Italy to celebrate my 45th birthday. Upon checking in with the front desk, they made me feel so comfortable that I felt right at home. I had a bit of jet lag from my 11hour flight and was elated to know that my room was not ready. They also helped coordinate my water taxi to pick me up from the airport. i felt like a celebrity like a scene out of 007 coming into the hotel. There is nothing like coming into your hotel in a sleek water taxi and being greeted by the hotel staff. The room was so spacious and don't get me started on the beautiful bathtub it was a great was to decompress and go into full vacation mode. I was initially worried that the hotel was a bit further from San marcos requiring a water taxi but those concerns rapidly vanished when I noticed a complimentary water taxi arrives every 15 minutes & goes back and forth between the hotel and San Marcos. As if things could not end on a better note, the awesome hotel sent me off with a warm cup of coffee and gifted me a beautiful tin cookie box with an image of the hotel that I had been eyeballing. I have been recommending this hotel to everyone I know! if you are on the fence, def book this hotel !!! You won't regret it!
The hotel is on the campus of a former pulmonary hospital, and has beautiful gardens, on this "island of roses." We stayed here at the end of a cruise, wanting to see Venice. It's all about location! If you're interested in an isolated, beautiful location to relax and meditate, this is it. If you prefer to see Venice and be able to go in and out of your hotel room easily, this is not the ideal location. Registration was very chaotic with three different lines which we had to stand. The hotel should to redesign the registration process for large groups. They were totally unprepared with only three people to register and addition to the other lines we were required to stand in. I have been to all over the world, other hotels have figured this out and not burdened guests with chaotic lines. At registration I learned that the hotel routine charges €150 to your credit card per day for incidentals. You can decline this, which I did. Overall, if you prefer peace and tranquility this is a great location. If you prefer quick access to Venice, this is not for you
We were very disappointed in this place from the start. No help with our luggage when we arrived at the dock via water taxi from St Mark's Square. We had to schlep them up the hill and steps to check in. We waited for around 30 minutes in line to check in. It was so hot in the lobby and no water available. Finally, we got our room and it was dated, stuffy, viewed a gravel parking lot, and the air conditioning did not work-super hot in there. After several discussions with the manager, who kept dismissing me, we were finally moved to a much cooler room with an actual view; A lagoon view room that we had reserved in the first place. The ice machines were all broken and the elevator wasn't working either. It made a weird sound the whole time we were there. Super annoying. Food was bland and way overpriced. The breakfast was chaotic with dirty tables everywhere. In the room, the commode and bidet were cracked and there was mold in the bathroom. Lighting was terrible in the room with two bulbs out. The exterior was also moldy with unmaintained landscaping. Don't trust the pics, they're misleading and this place isn't JW worthy. I will add that the people working at this "resort" are snobbish and rude. Not worth the stay and we will will never go back. We do not recommend.
This hotel has so much potential. Unfortunately it suck. Terrible service, filthy rooms, carpet and floors. It doesn't have that luxury and fine hotel and resorts quality from top to bottom. My room smelled like BO after the two cleaning ladies left. They also took the outlet that we purchased to charge our phones. When my husband called the receptionist they didn't do anything about it. We didn't get it back, they could careless. The cleaning people suck, they also moved our stuff in the bathroom and pile them all on one side. Who does that? Usually they don't touch or move any personal items. Plus we're missing some towels for whatever reason. It's very strange how they operate here. They seem to care about their job. One server gave me an unpleasant attitude. I was having breakfast minding my own business she came to me with a cup of cappuccino that I never asked for. I told her no it's not for me, I never asked for it. She rolled her eyes and sighed. She was so annoyed like I was lying to her. Then it turns out it was the other girl who asked for it, the table next to me. The server is an idiot. She didn't even apologize to me. She just turned away looking miserable. (I didn't get her name unfortunately, but she's short and she's wearing some thick eye glasses). Another server that has a nasty attitude, I asked for water, then she walked away and complained to her colleague that I asked for water. A bunch of them are standing and doing nothing. I waited I wasn't sure if she heard my request. She came back after few minutes and handed the glass water. I didn't drink it, because I didn't trust her, she probably spit on it.
5 night stay in Venice and had an amazing time. Got upgraded into a better suite upon arrival which was nice. Minor inconveniences here and there; many people point out the ferry - comes every 30 to both hotel and then San Marco, budgeting time is a non issue as long as you don't leave when everyone else plans to (around 10 am and 9pm) but it is a 25 minute ride that we used to plan and talk about the day, and sweat lol. The staff is very helpful, yes there are 1-2 that will give you a look for having coffee with your pasta but the majority are 10/10. Overall when we needed something done, it was done with a gratzi. The rooftop bar/ pool and amenities are great and I wish we had planned an extra day to enjoy it with 1 or 15 or so spritz. If we come back to Venice we would recommend to stay here again. Also there are cicadas.
Absolutely a top tier experience. It is its own island across the water from Venice. The moment your water taxi landed the staff is there to meet all your needs. The venue just has everything you ever wanted in a resort. The rooms are beautiful with your own balcony and sitting areas. Family friendly with kids activities. Water taxi to Venice every 30 minutes. read more
2 years ago
Loved everything about the JW in Venice. It's truly an island getaway away from the busy area of St Marks Square. It's located on its on island so there are pluses and minuses. Plus it's serene and spacious, private and more upscale. It's a 15 -20 minute boat ride from the hotel to St Mark's Square they have a complimentary shuttle that runs every 30 minutes from the square and the hotel. Minuses it's away from the city center so not many choices for dinner. For me definitely more pluses than minuses. We took a private water taxi from the train station which we paid out of pocket but was worth it vs walking from the train station to the pick up area at St Mark's Square. We had free breakfast buffet each morning and and there were so many choices, both hot and cold. They even had an omelette station. Everyone was very friendly and the restaurant was beautiful. Our check-in process was smooth and easy. Stefano was great. The room was super spacious with a huge closet, huge bathroom and a great view. The grounds were beautiful and we took walks every morning. They have a rooftop pool, which is heated although we did not use it. There was a great view and restaurant from up there. read more
10 months ago
I have really mixed feelings about this resort but my true rating would be about 3.8. This resort on a private island is absolutely stunning and has a free shuttle water taxi available that leaves St.Marks square every 30 minutes. Make sure you get to the boat docking area 10 minutes prior to guarantee you entry. I love how easy it is to get to and from the hotel and back to the mainland. Hotel staff were all amicable and some even went above and beyond to assist us. The island itself had breathtaking views and I adored the lovely Olive Garden which they use to make their own olive oil. Delicious! The room was minimalistic but a bit underwhelming compared to other hotels we stayed at in Venice. The room did not include many essentials that most hotels provide (such as toothpaste) which was shocking to me. The Cucina breakfast was just decent and I would honestly skip this and go into the city for a proper meal. The meats were dry and it was almost always the same items every day, such as pastries, eggs, sausage and bacon. Rooftop bar's service was almost nonexistent and we had to walk to the bar to get our drinks continuously. Beautiful location and hopefully will be back to try other things on their resort such as their restaurant that is owned by a two Michelin star chef. read more
7 months ago
2 years ago
We just spent a week at the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa and loved every second. It is a gorgeous hotel with the most incredible staff. TAP Air Portugal lost my luggage and the concierge provided me with constant updates, on top of calling the Venice airport daily to ensure I got my bag back (I got it 3 days later). They also saw my date of birth on my passport during check-in (reservation was under my partner's name) and went above and beyond delivering chocolate and champagne to our room and even surprising us during breakfast. The hotel pool was so relaxing. After a day of exploring bustling Venice, nothing felt better than enjoying the city views from the pool with a nice Negroni. We also enjoyed walking the hotel grounds in the morning. These were filled with dozens of olive trees. They produce their own olive oil, which has a distinct taste due to the trees' unusual location -- we were even able to buy a small bottle and bring it back. Getting to and from Venice's St. Mark's square daily using their complimentary boat (runs every 30 mins) + staying at a private island felt very luxurious! We were worried about the boat's reliability, but it was always on time. The boat ride takes around 20 mins and it's quite beautiful and comfortable. The breakfast at Cucina was a hit, as expected. They had it all, and everything was top quality and absolutely delicious. As Titanium Members we also had access to coffees at Dispenza, a small coffee shop/bakery next to the lobby. We also tried the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, Sagra Rooftop Restaurant, and really enjoyed our al fresco dinner, albeit it wasn't the best one we had in Venice. We also did room service multiple times and both the pasta and pizza from there were phenomenal. We used SNAs and were upgraded to a Junior Suite. Unfortunately we got first level, so no balcony or crazy views, but the room was very spacious, modern, and very comfortable. We enjoyed having both a shower and bathtub. All in all, a beautiful hotel in a beautiful city. So glad we picked it. read more
2 years ago
My stay was beyond what I could've imagined! I booked a solo trip to Italy to celebrate my 45th birthday. Upon checking in with the front desk, they made me feel so comfortable that I felt right at home. I had a bit of jet lag from my 11hour flight and was elated to know that my room was not ready. They also helped coordinate my water taxi to pick me up from the airport. i felt like a celebrity like a scene out of 007 coming into the hotel. There is nothing like coming into your hotel in a sleek water taxi and being greeted by the hotel staff. The room was so spacious and don't get me started on the beautiful bathtub it was a great was to decompress and go into full vacation mode. I was initially worried that the hotel was a bit further from San marcos requiring a water taxi but those concerns rapidly vanished when I noticed a complimentary water taxi arrives every 15 minutes & goes back and forth between the hotel and San Marcos. As if things could not end on a better note, the awesome hotel sent me off with a warm cup of coffee and gifted me a beautiful tin cookie box with an image of the hotel that I had been eyeballing. I have been recommending this hotel to everyone I know! if you are on the fence, def book this hotel !!! You won't regret it! read more
2 years ago
The hotel is on the campus of a former pulmonary hospital, and has beautiful gardens, on this "island of roses." We stayed here at the end of a cruise, wanting to see Venice. It's all about location! If you're interested in an isolated, beautiful location to relax and meditate, this is it. If you prefer to see Venice and be able to go in and out of your hotel room easily, this is not the ideal location. Registration was very chaotic with three different lines which we had to stand. The hotel should to redesign the registration process for large groups. They were totally unprepared with only three people to register and addition to the other lines we were required to stand in. I have been to all over the world, other hotels have figured this out and not burdened guests with chaotic lines. At registration I learned that the hotel routine charges €150 to your credit card per day for incidentals. You can decline this, which I did. Overall, if you prefer peace and tranquility this is a great location. If you prefer quick access to Venice, this is not for you read more
7 months ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
We were very disappointed in this place from the start. No help with our luggage when we arrived at the dock via water taxi from St Mark's Square. We had to schlep them up the hill and steps to check in. We waited for around 30 minutes in line to check in. It was so hot in the lobby and no water available. Finally, we got our room and it was dated, stuffy, viewed a gravel parking lot, and the air conditioning did not work-super hot in there. After several discussions with the manager, who kept dismissing me, we were finally moved to a much cooler room with an actual view; A lagoon view room that we had reserved in the first place. The ice machines were all broken and the elevator wasn't working either. It made a weird sound the whole time we were there. Super annoying. Food was bland and way overpriced. The breakfast was chaotic with dirty tables everywhere. In the room, the commode and bidet were cracked and there was mold in the bathroom. Lighting was terrible in the room with two bulbs out. The exterior was also moldy with unmaintained landscaping. Don't trust the pics, they're misleading and this place isn't JW worthy. I will add that the people working at this "resort" are snobbish and rude. Not worth the stay and we will will never go back. We do not recommend. read more
2 years ago
7 years ago
This hotel has so much potential. Unfortunately it suck. Terrible service, filthy rooms, carpet and floors. It doesn't have that luxury and fine hotel and resorts quality from top to bottom. My room smelled like BO after the two cleaning ladies left. They also took the outlet that we purchased to charge our phones. When my husband called the receptionist they didn't do anything about it. We didn't get it back, they could careless. The cleaning people suck, they also moved our stuff in the bathroom and pile them all on one side. Who does that? Usually they don't touch or move any personal items. Plus we're missing some towels for whatever reason. It's very strange how they operate here. They seem to care about their job. One server gave me an unpleasant attitude. I was having breakfast minding my own business she came to me with a cup of cappuccino that I never asked for. I told her no it's not for me, I never asked for it. She rolled her eyes and sighed. She was so annoyed like I was lying to her. Then it turns out it was the other girl who asked for it, the table next to me. The server is an idiot. She didn't even apologize to me. She just turned away looking miserable. (I didn't get her name unfortunately, but she's short and she's wearing some thick eye glasses). Another server that has a nasty attitude, I asked for water, then she walked away and complained to her colleague that I asked for water. A bunch of them are standing and doing nothing. I waited I wasn't sure if she heard my request. She came back after few minutes and handed the glass water. I didn't drink it, because I didn't trust her, she probably spit on it. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
5 night stay in Venice and had an amazing time. Got upgraded into a better suite upon arrival which was nice. Minor inconveniences here and there; many people point out the ferry - comes every 30 to both hotel and then San Marco, budgeting time is a non issue as long as you don't leave when everyone else plans to (around 10 am and 9pm) but it is a 25 minute ride that we used to plan and talk about the day, and sweat lol. The staff is very helpful, yes there are 1-2 that will give you a look for having coffee with your pasta but the majority are 10/10. Overall when we needed something done, it was done with a gratzi. The rooftop bar/ pool and amenities are great and I wish we had planned an extra day to enjoy it with 1 or 15 or so spritz. If we come back to Venice we would recommend to stay here again. Also there are cicadas. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
Wow. Just wow. This place is incredible! Mind you, I've never stayed in a JW before. But I went in with pretty high expectations. And they met them all. Everything really is as beautiful as the pictures. We arrived around 10:30a/11a. After check-in, in only took about 15 minutes to get our room ready. We were lucky enough to get a corner room - the three windows made it feel extra spacious. I think we had one of their more basic rooms, but it was absolutely lovely. It had a huge wardrobe, a tub and shower, a toilet and bidet, two sinks, robes and slippers, chocolate on your pillow. It was great! You won't find more than two English channels on TV, but who has time for that when you're in Venice?!? The rooftop pool was amazing! And somehow was never too busy. And there's always someone there to get you a towel and a drink. Cucina is the restaurant that provides a buffet at breakfast. Room service is pretty pricey - just go to the buffet and get your money worth. The family friendly pool and the gym are a little bit of a walk. Not bad, but it's easy to get turned around when going for the first time. read more
8 years ago
Yup, 5 plus stars for rooms and service! Located ion a remote island far from the City of Venice. Quiet and relaxing. You need to take a water taxi or call for the hotel ferry ride which is about 20 minutes away. As a platinum member, we were automatically upgraded to a suite. I would highly recommend if you enjoy the peaceful sounds of birds and quality accommodations and service. read more
Kind of disappointed. Wonderful sense of arrival. Wonderful island. Wonderful facility. Really poor service. We were there for 3 full days. Went to rooftop bar two times. Each time, we had to go to bar to order drinks yet there were 5-6 staff wandering around. We had to track down staff to pay our bill both times. Eventually walked to bar to pay. We saw others do the same thing. We are at the restaurant in the lobby. One waiter for entire restaurant. Again, had to find him to get service and pay. Food was excellent. Service slow to non-existent. We went to pool. We were greeted by chefs and wait staff as we walked in. Never saw them again. We waited 30 minutes and no one came to wait on us. We walked to bar to order. Then they brought food to us. Never saw them again. I've travelled Europe and some must be cultural but I expected better focus on the guest. Dock staff, front desk, housekeeping - all excellent. Just F&B seemed less interested in service and sales. read more
9 years ago
the service is impeccable not only at this hotel but every restaurant from the minute you step of the boat I have traveled around the world and stayed at the Marriotts , Ritz Carlton, St Regis and Four Seasons and several others. I travel to Vegas at least once a month, a city which has some of the top restaurants and Chiefs. Unfortunately we weren't able to get reservations to Dopolavoro restaurant a Michelin Star dinning but very happy with our Sagra and will definitely be back. The staff is 5 star just like the hotel it self, the grounds are immaculate, our check in host Gianmarco was one of the best, very welcoming and accompanied us to our room explained the island are room he was a perfect example of excellent customer service. I bit far from city center and you must take a water taxi or Marriott shuttle to get here bu worth it. read more
8 years ago
The hotel itself is nice, but stuffy. The rooms are modern. Marriott status means absolutely nothing, because this is a "resort" property. I had two separate reservations for two consecutive days and that seemed to confuse the front desk. It was a challenge to get them to give me the same room for both days at check in. Also no guarantee for late check out. It is a decent distance from Venice. The shuttle runs approximately ever 30 minutes and takes 20 minutes each way. You have to make sure you time your trips accordingly, or you will spend a lot of time waiting. If you want to stay away from the action on a private island then this would be ideal. However, the Hilton is a better option if you want a quicker and easier transport to the main tourist area and if you desire recognition as an elite member. They also need to do something about the mold in the bathroom- really disgusting. I was really surprised by this as this is a JW Marriott and would never expect this at a 5 Star "resort." Complaining to the front desk was a waste of time as they barely feigned interest and did nothing about it. read more
8 years ago
9 years ago
We stayed one evening at this beautiful property before embarking on our cruise. It is on a private island, which is terrific being able to have peace and quiet especially after traveling internationally. You are still close, approximately twenty minutes to San Marco Square by water taxi. We chose to stay on property as we have been to Venice before and wanted to adjust to the time change. Airport to Hotel - We decided to book a private water taxi, which was fantastic; however, the water taxi did not tell us that the walk would be a bit further than expected. Per the map they emailed us it appeared the water taxi terminal was just outside the arrivals. We went outside as we did not see any signs. Tip!!! Don't go outside, stay in the arrival terminal and find the corridor to the water taxi. The water taxi took approximately 30 minutes and we thoroughly enjoyed seeing parts of Venice. We did not book through hotel. Worth every penny we spent. Arriving at the hotel by water taxi was an unique and cool experience! The grounds are beautiful and had terrific views of San Marco square. We were upgraded to a larger room; however, my knock on the room was the bed, quiet hard, not what you would expect from a five star resort. Restaurant We dined at their rooftop restaurant Sagra. The only dining options if you choose not to leave by water taxi are on property. The food was pricey and so-so. The charcuterie was amazing; however the pasta not. Service was great! The other miss was the concierge. We had requested a water taxi for the next day along with a bellman to pick up our luggage. It was completely missed and we called for our bags, bellman was 15 minutes late and our water taxi was never scheduled. Tip!! Know if you schedule a water taxi through the hotel - VERY expensive it cost us 90 euros for a seven minute trip to the cruise terminal. The reason for the three stars: - Mattress under expectations - Dining so-so (70 euros for pasta for two - min.. 2 people order) Pasta was a 3 on a scale 1-10. - 90 euros charged by hotel for a very short trip as mentioned above to cruise terminal. - Miss by concierge read more
7 years ago
This is a review for the spa, only and it is an absolute 5 star experience!! We bought the couple's spa package which included an 80 minute massage, champagne and treats in your private spa suite, with private showers, bathroom and amenities. We took our time and completely allowed ourselves to relax. We then utilized the pool and tried every one of the massagers available. They were absolutely fabulous. There was also a steam room, sauna, and lounge areas outside. Beautiful, romantic and private setting. One of our best, by far! If you want a little different/additional experience, this is well worth the 20 minute boat ride from San Marco. read more
8 years ago
7 years ago
I recommend this place if you are planning to go to Venice. It is 20 minute boat ride to the city. They provide free transportation daily from 8am to 11:30pm within 30 minute apart. Spa and fitness facility is top notch. I suggest getting the spa resort package which includes unlimited use of bikes, use of spa facilities which is so so amazing. We stayed at L'ulivito part of the resort which I think is private. Netflix Venice film festival is about to start this weekend here. Our package comes with daily breakfast which is also superb. read more
8 years ago
I have arrived at the JW Marriott Resort & Spa after a long, expensive boat ride to the private island. $1400 for 2 rooms. I feel that the photos of the hotel rooms are fraudulent. I will include a photo of my room and encourage others to avoid this non-refundable mistake read more
11 years ago
This is probably the nicest JW Marriott I've ever stayed at. It is such a different experience having the hotel be on a private island in the middle of the lagoon. The history is also quite interesting and the grounds are very large and beautiful to explore. The staff was extremely friendly and very accommodating with anything we needed. The room was immaculate and the setting was beautiful, overlooking the lagoon with a heated private pool. You can't ask for much more! The rooftop restaurant is also really delicious and you can also do room service which is the same food. I personally liked being removed from the mayhem of San Marco and the mainland. It was a nice retreat and really gave you the opportunity to take in the real tranquility of Venice. The JW provides a boat that runs roughly ever half hour and goes between the island and San Marco. I believe the last one is at 1:00/1:30am. It takes max 20 minutes to go one way which was fine for me but others may not be a fan of doing so. Just be prepared for the little extra time from the day but well worth it. Note that this is a seasonal resort! They are closed between November - March. read more
7 years ago
Hated it, Tons of mosquitoes the staff were obnoxious and arrogant and they basically knocked on my door every five minutes until checkout terrible but pretty. It's only worth it if you want to have a quiet place to be in Venice. My biggest point It's appalling how arrogant the staff were like they had their nose down on everyone. Customer service is free so is kindness. I've had 10xs a better time with better staff. I believe they all act snotty because it's a little luxury. For me I'd stay anywhere else if that's the guest experience of arrogance funny they just work there I don't understand where their arrogance comes from. read more
8 years ago
After our 3-day stay with this hotel, we spent two nights at the AC Marriott in Bologna, and boo hoo, I miss the Venice JW so very much. Why? I'LL TELL YOU WHY. 1) Absolutely sweet-hearted staff all-around who will assist you in every manner needed (luggage hold, restaurant recommendations, museum ticket purchases, etc.) and do it all with the kindest greetings despite seeing five bajilion obnoxious tourists per day. I don't think any other country I've visited has a hotel where the staff are genuinely nice to tourists for the sake of being nice instead of simply as professional. 2) The whole place smells lovely. It really does. For being an island, it's a rather fragrant thing. 3) There's an olive orchard (likely more for looks than product) and church from the 1920's out between some buildings, so be sure to gallivant out there sometime. 4) The lobby is welcoming, full of couches and chairs, and in the far back, past where a live band plays at night and behind a translucent curtain or two, one can recline on a futon-esque-thing if one is okay with possibly committing a social faux-pas. 5) A well-maintained water shuttle is ready to take guests to and from the hotel and the main island every half hour. The first shuttle from Venice proper leaves at 8:00, and the first from the hotel at 8:30. The latest, if I remember correctly, is midnight on both ends. The shuttle takes you right to shore between the main gondola service lot and the San Marcos water bus service -- very convenient. 6) Hotel toiletries are generally blegh, but theirs are great, and the conditioner is quite effective. 7) Complimentary Illy Coffee in your room with the cutest espresso mugs, four water bottles replenished during their TWICE-A-DAY room service, and a sweet little gift of 70% dark chocolate left on each pillow each day. Cute cute. BONUS: If you're Marriott Platinum, there is a welcome gift to choose from as well as free breakfast for each of your mornings. The welcome charcuterie board was HUGE with generous helpings of 3 cheeses, 3 meats, honey, olives, and mustard full of mustard seeds. The breakfast, too, is amazing, with a mimosa bar, sauteed vegetables, bacon and sausages, actually-good fruit, hot egg options, pastries, coffee made to order, juices, etc. Their mushrooms were cooked to perfection. I could've made a meal out of them alone. (And think about this: a mimosa bar that opens at 7am.) If there's anything to be a bit sad about: as the hotel is on an island, the seawater takes its toll on some of the fixtures, but then again, you're ON A HOTEL ON A PRIVATE ISLAND. read more
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