I don't want to dissuade you from La Calcina (that price sounds great) but I do think the idea of a balcony is wonderful for September. Have you tried a text search here for Venice AND balcony? Or try Bailey AND venice to find the string with the link to his photos. I don't know why the Wildner is listed as 2 stars, but remember the stars are for amenities (elevator, restaurant etc.) not "niceness." It's possible not all the rooms at the Wildner have private baths (but Bailey's with the terrace did).

www.pbase.com/baileyzim

What unbelievable photos!

Here's the thread about rooms with balconies in Venice

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34453198

Jocelyn, thank you for the link to Bailey's photos. They really are wonderful.

Mclaurie, thanks for the additional information. The fact that I would like to have a balcony is what is keeping me from being sure about La Calcina. Many people have enjoyed the hotel, and I have been reassured that the location isn't too far out of the way. BUT, I REALLY did want a balcony.

I am not sure about the Wildner, though, because it is located in a fairly busy and noisy area, although I know that people pay mega-bucks to stay in other hotels in that location.

The Antico Doge has a beautiful suite with a view and a terrace, but I have read that the area surrounding the hotel isn't the best. This hotel would also be more expensive.

Locanda Orseolo does not have availability at this time. I am on a waitlist.

The other hotel to consider is the American. Most reviews are favorable, although the photos of the canal that is surrounding the hotel don't look that pretty. What do you think? Also, the canal view room with terrace is at least 300 euros per night -quite a bit more than La Calcina.

I really do not want to take a chance on the Marconi if they will not guarantee a balcony room. I would be VERY disappointed if I booked that hotel for the terrace only to get there and find out that I don't have one.

What is your overall opinion?

Thanks again Mclaurie! You are always so helpful to everyone! I know that you helped me very much during my planning for my trip to France last spring.

Re: Locanda Orseolo, you mean it's fully booked for Sept. 2004 already? I guess those reviews on tripadvisor are the cause :) It appears that almost daily there are excellent reviews posted there.
I hope you can get off their waitlist and into a reservation.

francophile03, I don't know if Locanda Orseolo is fully booked for the WHOLE month of September, but it is fully booked for the 3 nightd I am looking for.

I have only been to Venice twice, but stayed at La Calcina both times (recommended by European friends). It was a perfect hotel for me - cool, calm, quiet, well-run, good location central but not chaotic along the Guidecca canal, nice breakfast included in the room price. Very nice atmosphere.

Suze, thanks for the positive feedback on La Calcina.