I've just discovered this fantastic tool and was hoping to obtain some information. I am squeaky new to travelling - especially out of the country and on my own.

I will be attending a Pueblo Ingles program which is completed with me returning to Madrid on a Friday night. This is where my true adventure begins.

As a solo female traveller in her 40's, I am seeking guidance on places to stay. I am frugal and looking for safe, clean and accessible locations. Not sure I am up to attempting a youth hostel at this stage.

I see that Toledo is a common recommendation on other posts - so would that be a feasible day trip? I have also seen other recommendations to visit the maribelsquide.com pages for ideas on planning day time activities.

One last question - how difficult would it be to get around with out knowing Spanish? Would it be worthwhile to pick up one of those books for translating specific words?

Thank you for any guidance / assistance you can provide.

lvnative, it's always good to have a translator if you really speak none of the language. It's not to hard to "navigate" if you know at least a little.

How "frugal" is "frugal" - meaning, what is your per-night hotel budget?

Do you prefer a quiet mainly-residential neighborhood, or a lively more tourist-oriented neighborhood?

Yes, Toledo is easily doable as a daytrip, and yes, Maribel's guide is a great place to start.

(My daughter and I were in Madrid in August and we LOVED it)

Thanks sf7307 for such a quick response.

I need to try to keep it under $100 US currency per night if possible. I would rather spend vacation money on a tour, museums or food.

The quiet neighborhood setting would be enchanting. That would be my preference as I doubt I would be comfortable getting out at night anyway.
Thankyou

Hi lvnative,

I hope when you come back you let us know of your experiences with Pueblo Ingles. Recently my son thought of applying, but he speaks Spanish and they prefer that the volunteers don't.

I suggest you check out some of the budget recommendations by Maribel, like Hotel Plaza Mayor, Hostal Adriano and Hostal Adria. I have also seen posters in another forum talk about Hostal Gonzalo, very close to Prado museum. Although they are called "hostales" they are not a youth hostel. More like a B&B.

Good luck!

Bookmarking - thanks lvnative

We recently had a very good experience at Hostal Triana in Madrid. Like a previous poster said "hostal" does not mean "youth hostel" in Spain.

Another good resource is www.tripadvisor.com to search for reviews of lodging and sites.

You'll LOVE Spain!