06/19/2026
Four years ago today, we learned an important lesson in Venice.
Not every travel expense is created equal.
In an effort to save money, we booked a shared water taxi from the airport to our hotel. What followed was more than three hours of waiting on a dock for other passengers we couldn’t identify and had never met.
By the end:
• One person had a meltdown.
• Two people were complaining.
• One person completely checked out.
• And I was repeatedly asking the staff if our mystery passengers had arrived yet.
It remains one of our most memorable travel hiccups.
Now, when clients ask where it’s worth spending a little more, a private water taxi in Venice is always near the top of my list. After an overnight flight, stepping onto a boat and heading straight to your hotel isn’t just more convenient—it’s a much better way to begin your vacation.
Sometimes the best travel advice comes from your own mistakes.
