Living in Venice: Challenges and Dislikes

While Venice is widely recognized as a picturesque and romantic place, it also comes with its unique set of challenges and drawbacks. This article explores the reasons why some people may not relish the idea of living in this enchanting Italian city. From the wrath of seasonal winds to the rising expenses and limited local population, we will delve into the various factors that make living in Venice a point of contention for many individuals.

Seasonal Winds and Flooding

One of the most significant challenges of living in Venice is the presence of Bora winds, which originate in Trieste. These strong gusts can lead to unpredictable weather patterns and create discomfort for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, as the city is built on stilts, with streets referred to as canals, the risk of flooding is steadily increasing. This not only poses a threat to the physical integrity of the city but also exacerbates the feeling of living in a precarious environment.

Financial and Housing Challenges

The cost of living in Venice, particularly regarding housing, is one of the most daunting aspects. The city is experiencing a significant population decline; it is approximately 25% of what it was 40 years ago. This demographic shift has resulted in a skewed demand and supply equation, where the population is increasingly catered to the needs of tourists rather than residents. As a result, many essential services, such as sports facilities, medical services, and educational options, are deteriorating or becoming scarce.

Transport and Infrastructure Issues

For individuals whose jobs require frequent travel, living in Venice can be a logistical nightmare. The city's unique layout, with narrow streets and canals instead of roads, makes transportation time-consuming and complicated. The high cost of permits and the need to hire experienced and expensive artisans for even the simplest renovations further add to the financial burden. Shopping, both for daily necessities and luxury items, is also significantly more expensive in Venice compared to the mainland.

Overcrowding and Tourist Pressure

The overwhelming presence of tourists is another significant issue facing residents of Venice. The city has become a major tourist destination, with countless visitors flooding in daily to experience its charm. For those wishing to settle and raise families, the influx of tourists has led to a decline in essential infrastructure, such as local employment opportunities, educational and medical facilities, and recreational spaces. This has resulted in a sense of displacement for many residents who feel that their city is being transformed into a tourist-oriented theme park.

Personal Experiences and Perspectives

A local resident, born in Mestre, offers insight into the challenges of living in Venice compared to the mainland. They highlight several factors such as:

The reduction in the local population, with most residents being elderly, foreigners, or wealthy tourists. The quality of life has deteriorated due to a lack of local amenities and higher prices for everyday essentials. The focus on catering to tourists, with cafes, restaurants, and shops prioritizing profit over the needs of the local community. The difficulty of navigating the city without a boat, which makes transportation for people without access to water transport cumbersome and uncomfortable. The aging infrastructure, including the lack of elevators and the need for ambulance services to transport elderly residents, which adds to the logistical challenges of daily life. endir;

They also mention that residents who don't own a boat have to rely on expensive transportation services, which are necessary for even the most basic tasks. The high humidity and water levels contribute to the deterioration of buildings, increasing the cost of maintenance for residents. Compared to Mestre, Venice lacks modern amenities such as gyms, cinemasteries, hospitals, and decent nightlife options, with prices for everyday items being significantly higher.

In conclusion, while Venice remains a fascinating and beautiful city, the combination of strong seasonal winds, high living costs, declining local infrastructure, and a growing tourist population presents several challenges for those considering making it their home. Despite its allure, the realities of daily life in Venice can be quite different from the romanticized images often portrayed in travel literature and media.