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If Hostal Fernando was a man, he'd be a keeper. All the criteria on our check-list were ticked at this fabulous two-star spot. An easy central location? Check! Roomy clean space and helpful staff? Check and check! Fair rates to match every budget? Check again! What else do you need?
After some recent remodeling (January 2007), the hostal is freshly-tiled, painted, and technologically up-to-date, offering Internet stations, elevators, televisions with cable, and wheelchair-accessible accommodations.
Hostal Fernando is a family-run place. Yet despite its funky family-run pedigree, it feels like a version of the Best Western. All of the hostel's 40 rooms have windows, heating, and air-conditioning. In addition, Hostal Fernando offers rooms with shared and private baths, a total of 60 beds at very affordable rates. Some rooms, located along noisy side streets, have fabulous, compensatory views. For the record, calle Ferran will be noisy—it's just the nature of the area.
Attached to a large, though colorless, lounge area outfitted with florescent lights and vending machines is the equally unimaginative kitchen. Communal spaces ultimately serve their purpose with two stove tops and many tables. Our verdict: The lounge and the kitchen are aesthetically boring, but are kept clean and user-friendly.
It's truly hard to beat Hostal Fernando's location. Situated on the bustling calle Ferran, it's near all forms of public transportation, including the Metro, buses, and FCG trains. Additionally, Plaça Reial, La Rambla, and other spots of interest are located minutes from the hostel.
Eating and drinking in these parts is no problem as calle Ferran is right in the middle of tourist-ville. The popular location may exponentially drive up the price of your café con leche, but you can rest assured that there will never be a dull moment while you're sipping away.
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