Unfortunately we did have some big problems. Although we booked 3 months ahead and got definite promises there was very poor communication from the host and big problems with the flat and we had to start a resolution claim to get a refund.
Firstly we had a problem with information about arrival and welcome arrangements, because we were not arriving at the flat until late in the evening. Despite emailing in three languages, texting and phoning for weeks beforehand we did not have any confirmation of where to get the key or entry until the very last minute. By that time we had already contacted Airbnb for help and started making arrangements for alternative bookings in Venice.
There was no information at the flat about how things worked and no contact from the host to check that everything was OK. There were major building works on the roof which blocked the views from every window and meant loud noise every day from early morning. There was no Wi-Fi, even though other reviews had mentioned this and the host had definitely promised it to us when we asked at booking. The flat was cold because we did not know how to use the heating.
We have travelled all over the world with Airbnb and never hit these kinds of problems, and it was doubly difficult because we were travelling with friends who had never used Airbnb before. When we got home we contacted the host to explain (and kept Airbnb informed) and he offered us some recompense, but then withdrew it when we said we would have to post an honest review to warn other guests. Like all guests we depend on honest reviews to tell us about properties and we would not have booked this one if we had been warned.
It could be a great booking- the location is excellent, close to the centre but off the main drag, and the flat is spacious and very well equipped (apart from no Wi-Fi!). The beds were comfortable and there is enough kitchen stuff to have a dinner party for ten people had we wanted to have one. There are plenty of shops, markets, and bars nearby and a wide selection of restaurants including two with Michelin stars, and there is easy access to several vaporetto stops. Venice is a great city but it’s a real shame that our holiday was spoiled by lack of communication and problems we should have been warned about. When we were looking desperately just before we left for Venice for alternative places in the same area there were several other very helpful hosts with very attractive properties in the same part of the city.