Review of I Qs, by The TI Review Team

By TI Reviewer Caitlyn Ulbert:

Locating Venice's i Qs can a bit of a challenge to a traveller new to this city. If the winding narrow alleyways don't trip you up, trying to find this boutique hotel surely will. Upon entering a central courtyard, assured that the entrance to this sassy Venetian bolthole was not far off, this reviewer was well and truly stumped. Bereft of any obvious sign, and containing no less than four addresses in a very small area, this was one boutique hotel that lives up to its exclusive reputation.

Once the doorway was finally found (the only marker a tiny silver plaque), stepping inside was well worth the effort. Staff are warm and friendly, handing out a thoughtful map of Venice, which proved a bit of a lifeline throughout our stay. For the truly geographically-challenged, staff will go out of their way to give easy-to-follow directions, even walking outside and literally pointing the way, twice.

The hotel certainly puts service first. Guests can enjoy breakfast in bed, a delicious selection of chocolate croissants, cereals, fruit, juices and hot drinks. Families are kept entertained with Playstations set up in the rooms on arrival. A babysitting service provides the perfect opportunity for the grown-ups to explore Venice by themselves.

Just four beautiful suites make up this boutique hotel. All are individually styled and attract glamorous clientele. The emphasis here is on modern, clean lines; cream and chocolates are lifted with splashes of red and green. Eclectic pieces of modern art are scattered throughout the rooms - the attention to detail here is amazing.

Each suite is kitted out with a flat-screen television, DVD player and WiFi internet access. There is also a separate sitting area and small kitchen for guests along with a fully-stocked minibar. The platform beds follow the same clean and simple design aesthetic.

The i Qs undeniably a gorgeous example of a Venetian boutique hotel, but what really lifts it apart from its competitors is its location. Overlooking the canal, gondolas pass underneath bedroom windows, with the ubiquitous basso profundo serenade caught in snatches as they do. A five minute walk leads to St Mark's square, with a plethora of restaurants, galleries and shops heavily concentrated around.