Ca Maria Callas

The host’s handling of the 24 euro tax was the worst part of an already upsetting stay. On the morning after we arrived, I wanted to leave early for breakfast before activities we’d booked months ahead, including Campanile, Basilica, and Doge's Palace. The owner rushed over almost as soon as we opened the door, apparently watching the hallway camera, and insisted we pay right then. I said the cash was in our room, we had an appointment, and we’d be there for three days, so we could pay later. She refused and said St. Mark's Square was only a few minutes away. What she didn’t know was that my son had a kidney transplant, so taking his medication and eating are very important. She ignored that. It felt like she was shaking me down for the money, chasing me down the street and practically dragging me back for 24 euros. I felt ashamed, though she was the one who should have been ashamed. The room was cold and dark, and that money-hungry behavior was disgusting. I’d paid over 300 dollars a night, and she still had no shame about pulling me off the street over this. We booked three nights, February 12th to 15th, for over $1000. The trouble began on February 6th, when my bank wouldn’t let me access my account. I gave the host another credit card and asked him to try charging the original card again for the amount due. I was also trying to reach the bank, which was hard with a 6 hour time difference. The host kept messaging me, without seeming to consider that I might be traveling from plane to plane rather than sitting at home bored. I even said I’d rather find somewhere else, but the bank eventually authorized payment, so I kept the booking, which I regret. All those messages put pressure on me during the trip. When my son and I arrived on the evening of the 12th, the host said he couldn’t accommodate us at check-in, but would arrange it the next day if we sent photos of our passports. That’s what happened. After enjoying the carnival atmosphere until late, we went back to rest before our morning plans. There was no breakfast provided, so we wanted to get out early enough to eat before the multi-hour program. Venice is amazing and we’ll return, but we’ll avoid this accommodation completely. The three day stay was a deeply unpleasant experience.