Reviewing Barcelona
What do our reviewers think of the cities they're reviewing? Here, EuroCheapo Barcelona Correspondent Regina WB asks herself a few questions about her adopted home town of Barcelona. Read carefully.
1. Five Favorite hotels in Barcelona.
My numero uno is Hostal Gat Xino, in the Raval neighborhood. This place has it going on in every possible way, and is perfect for groups or couples. Plus, I love their weird, cat-eye logo and super-creative architectural design. Though the Raval hood can be a bit dangerous, its quirky blend of cultures and multitudes of budget restaurants make it my favorite area of the city.
Second fave is Hostal Goya. It's a real class act with the attitude of a three-star hotel without three-star rates. If my mother was coming to visit, I would have her stay at Goya. It's by far the most stylish hostal in Barcelona, in a quiet, non-tourist area.
In a close third place with Goya is Fashion House. Despite the somewhat cheesy name, this place is chic, comfortable, and very easy-going. Its flower-covered patio really did it for me, and I imagine a morning coffee and croissant in this quaint oasis would be very relaxing.
As for mid-range and three-stars, I would go with Hotel Astoria. This is a really gorgeous place, and honestly, the poolside terrace with 360-degree city views is unbeatable. It was one of the only places I visited that had a fitness center and office area, making it a good option for business travelers.
And then there's Hotel Banys Orientals! What a charmer this three-star is, with its refined approach and fabulous location in the Born neighborhood. It has a recommendable restaurant and is nearby many important city sights.
2. Favorite thing about working in Barcelona
It's no big secret that Barcelona is a happening place. Around every twisting, graffiti-laden corner lies a new experience. Barcelona is a young city with old traditions. Music, art, theatre, the outdoors, the Mediterranean Sea—Barcelona's pretty much got it all. I am also fascinated by the strength of Catalan culture. In a very real way, Barcelona is not in Spain; it's in Catalonia. There's a strong national pride that supports Catalan heritage and traditions and favors separation from Spain.
Everything about Barcelona is a bit rebellious, a bit on the wild side. Even the architecture—take a look at the Sagrada Familia—is over the top. Living in Barcelona, I know I'll never experience a dull moment. There's always something new to discover.
3. City Secret
This is a relatively new secret that I am more than happy to share: Bicing Bicycles (Spanish and Catalan only). You can sign up before you visit Barcelona. Bicing will send you a membership card, which will allow you to use the Bicing bikes to bike all over town for amazingly little!
4. Local Food Item
For something truly Catalan, try pan con tomate (bread with tomato). It may sound crazy, but it's actually very good. It's fresh bread rubbed with garlic, drizzled with olive oil and then rubbed with a ripe tomato. Also, I recommend eating tapas, especially an order of spicy patatas bravas in Barcelonetta, right on the sea. Of course, seafood is always a great option, too!
5. Highlight of visit to Barcelona
I think Barcelona is best explored on foot or bike. Though I sometimes forget it, Barcelona is a beachside city. There's nothing better than renting a bike (see #3) and riding through the Gothic alleyways of the old city center, or along the crazy seaside boardwalk in the summer. Besides just adventuring around and taking in the architecture, I would suggest that visitors not miss the art. There are many museums here, and tons of galleries with constantly changing exhibitions, in addition to all the city sculptures, murals, and performers.
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