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Haven't been there before and am looking for any recommendations on decent, but affordable hotels (3 or 4 Star), ideally the family-run type, or even apartments.
Also, quality restaurants & bars - any that are 'must-see'?
Personal recommendations are always preferred before one goes and buys the obligatory 'Rough Guide' or similar...
Syzygy
Since I was only there on business so far, I can't recommend a budget hotel.
I can't recommend a budget hotel.
Not after a budget hotel - no point scrimping when it's your ...uhm... 21st birthday. I'm looking for value for money from a good 3 or 4 star hotel, where the bar stays open until you decide it's time to go to bed...;-)
Syzygy
bar stays open until you decide it's time to go to bed...;-)
From my experience there a few years ago, I believe they all stay open very late as the Spanish like to party till it's breakfast time. (Nothing like sitting down on the beach to watch the sunrise with breakfast in hand after a long, fun night of dancing and drinking.)
If you are only 21, I would say you might want to look into looking for a hostel and getting a private room in one if you are looking for something a bit higher scale. You will be able to find lots of like minded partiers with which to celebrate you "coming of age". In the hostels, its very common for a big group of near strangers to go out for fun. The ones who have been in town a few days/weeks will know where the best bars and clubs are which is nice for those who had just arrived.
There was a hostel in Barcelona that was well known as a party place. I can picture it in my head, but I can't remember the name. The building surrounded a stone courtyard that was like a big, non-green public park where people (not just the guests) hung out. Anybody know what I am talking about?
it's your ...uhm... 21st birthday.
I thought that perhaps the "...uhm..." bit might give it away that it's not actually that landmark birthday. Apologies, I'm trying to be far too subtle; my mistake.
Think the next one... No, don't, 'cause that would be 25. Ok, the one after that. No. That's no good either for then I'd be 30. Oh all right, I admit it, I'll be 40 next birthday...
So, Barcelona will be my way of celebrating a coming of age - middle age. (Mind you, I think I've been having a mid-life crisis since about the age of thirteen!)
Syzygy
Mind you, I think I've been having a mid-life crisis since about the age of thirteen!
Welcome to the club. I turned 37 a few months ago and seem to have a crises every 5 years.
I thought that perhaps the "...uhm..." bit might give it away that it's not actually that landmark birthday.
*doh* I am bad at subtle in verbal conversation and even worse in text.
Anyway, depending on your personality, the hostel may still be a fun way to go. If not, pensions are great. When I was in Spain, the best ones were normally to be found as you stepped off the bus/train. Little, old ladies pushing and shoving to tell you about why their rooms were the best and the food was home cooked and excellent. They would also be able to point you towards a good celebration location.
But then again, many people (understandably) aren't really into the wander and find mentality. ;)
