Sandy

One stop on my fall trip will be Barcelona for 6 nights, and Madrid for 3; 50 yr. old female travelling alone. Am down to 2 hotels in each city, and would appreciate input in making the final decision. In Barcelona, I can either stay at the Hotel Continental in a queen bedded room with balcony (90 Euros/night including tax and breakfast) or at the Gran Via in a single room (87.6 Euros/night without tax or breakfast). In Madrid, I am a bit inclined to splurge, as it will be the last leg of a 15 night trip. I can either stay at Carlos V, or for slightly more at the Reina Victoria. Thank you!!

Paula

Sandy,<BR>People are probably going to jump all over me on this one, but we stayed at the Hotel Continental and wouldn't stay there again. It would have been fine for me when I was traveling as a student, but like you, I'm older than that now. But a lot of people in Fodors like it, and they do have a great dog, if you're into dogs (which I am) and the location is good.<BR>Hope this helps.<BR>

Maggie

Hi Sandy,<BR>Just a bit older than you, but stayed at The Continental in March and would definitely stay there again.<BR>You can not go wrong with a room with a balcony overlooking Las Ramblas.<BR>The rooms may be a bit basic, but they are clean and the location can not be beat.<BR>Only liquid soap is provided in the bathrooms so bring your own if you prefer a bar.<BR>Enjoy your trip<BR>Regards<BR>Maggie

Sandy

Any help with Madrid??

yeah

Carlos V is a part of Best Western an has gotten so much attention that it has become overpriced.I hesitate to mention my newest find in Madrid but I've stayed there alone a couple of times here goes.It is called Suecia,$ star hotel.It's on a little quieter,short street just where Gran Via and Alcala meet going down towards Cibeles. It's next to the Fine Arts Center and the courthouse,very safe during the day and night.As their name implies,it's operatedby a Swedish company,each room is decorated differently and there's a terrace on the 7th floor to relax.Take a look at their web site,they have a fabulous deal going on.Their restaurant is super1

Nancy

Sandy,<BR><BR>We stayed at Carlos V a couple of years ago and were quite comfortable. The location was wonderful-during the day, there is some noise (pedestrian street), but nothing excessive. We were able to walk to all of the sights.<BR><BR>Our room had a double bed and doors opening to a small balcony. The bathroom was nice, everything was very clean. They have a breakfast buffet with many options. I think we paid about $110 USD per night. They also have a shuttle to and from the airport that we used.<BR><BR>The desk staff were helpful and friendly, recommending some good restaurants, etc. I would definitely stay here again.