opaldog

To make a long story short, I switched my November apartment rental from El Born to Eixample. Now I am doubting my decision to do that and know that I can't just keep going back and forth on it. The apartments are through the same agency, www.habitatapartments.com They both looked good and were the same price. Links are: http://www.habitatapartments.com/en/...view/born3.htm and http://www.habitatapartments.com/en/...ew/pedrera.htm So, now we are reserved for the Pedrera apartment.

I switched apartments because as I've never been to Barcelona I thought that the Eixample area would be easier to get to from the airport and as I'm not a nightclubber, quieter at night. I also read a report by Nikki on this forum that kind of sold me on it. Now I'm wondering if I made the right choice. My husband says not to worry, we've never been and either area/apartment will be fine. Feedback anyone? I'm feeling "insecure" about my decision.

danon

You will be just fine...Pedrera is on the most beautiful street in Barcelona (IMO) ..a few minutes to several Gaudi buildings, the best shops, a zillion restaurants.
We are going to Barcelona for a fourth time next month - I booked an apt. in Eixample !
One can always get to El Born by talking a short metro ride or walking 15-20 minutes.
Barcelona is a fantastic city and your location is excellent!

SUMMAGOLD

if you are not into clubbing or bars, you wont regret it. L'Eixample is a really pretty part of barcelona. it is equivalent to ny's park avenue/5th avenue. depending on where your apartment will be (off Passeig de Gracia?) should be walking distance to Gaudi's Casa Batlló, maybe a 10-15 minute walk to Gaudi's Sagrada Familia. On Metro, 3 quick stops to Las Ramblas.

danon

actually, Las Ramblas ( not my favorite place) is under 10 minutes walk from your apt.

suec1

I would GUESS you are getting more space and more modern for less money - that sounds like a winner to me. Each area has its pluses and minuses, Barcelona is a wonderful city and easy to get around. Enjoy!

opaldog

Thanks so much to all of you. I just needed some positive reinforcement! I won't look back.

Nikki

Just don't blame me if you don't like it.

But I have a hard time imagining being disappointed in this neighborhood. I agree that either area would be fine, but I truly believe that apartment is on the best street corner in Barcelona (haven't tried them all, of course). Great people watching on the park-like median strip that you can see from your windows or from benches right in front, or from outdoor tables for the tapas bar next door.

The best hot chocolate I have ever had just across the street. The fabulous array of food at Cerveseria Catalana around the corner. Gaudi's Pedrera a block or two away. Good public transportation connections and plentiful taxis.

Cowboy1968

Actually, your apartment (Pedrera) is on the Rambla Catalunya (one block off Pg de Gracia). Even though the Rambla Catalunya is the upper extension of the famous/infamous "Las Ramblas" (i.e. the part between Pl Catalunya and the old harbour), it has nothing to do with the latter in style and appearance. It's a very, very nice neighborhood, upscale shopping, but also regular cafes or tapas bars which are still regularly priced.
You can "take a look" with Google streetview.

danon

one more vote for Cervesria Catalana !
Love the food and the vibe.
Rabla de Catalunya is one of my favorite streets in Europe.

yk

I think you'd be happy with either option anyway.

opaldog

Again, to everyone who replied I appreciate all of your input. Nikki: I only have myself to blame, however I think we are going to be very happy there. I love an apartment with a big window and good people watching opportunities. The bakery across the street sounds appealing as did the Cerveseria Catalana. I also enjoyed your trip report of Barcelona.

Nikki

I did just notice that your other choice, in El Born, is a two bedroom apartment. I assume you realize that the Pedrera apartment is one bedroom, right?

opaldog

I do. I figured the price is very good in November and that I could use the extra space for luggage. It's just the two of us going. I am also planning on going on the cable car and I saw in your report that you and your husband did that. Sometimes heights can get to me but usually only when they are wide open. You mentioned glassed-in so I assume that when I get that uncontrollable urge to jump, I won't be able to.

Nikki

The best part of taking the cable car is the cafe when you get off at the top on Montjuic with a great view of the waterfront and the city. On a sunny day in February, I didn't want to leave.