Holiday apartments Barcelona.

Beaches in Barcelona

Monday, 14 June 2010 14:36

Barcelona is a city near the sea with great coast line and amazing beaches. Beaches begin from Barceloneta district and they end at big shopping center forum del mar. The most crowded beaches are logically near the center in Barceloneta district and they are the most dirty as well. But there are lots of bars and restaurants, so it is quite nice to hang out at Barceloneta beaches. If you are searching something more relaxed and less crowded head to the Poble Nou beaches. They are nice and calm and there are even private beaches for small minorities like nudists and homosexuals. 

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Shopping in Barcelona

Saturday, 12 June 2010 06:00

If you like shopping then Barcelona is the right place to visit. It has a great diversity of stores that suites all different styles. Whether you have a thick or thin wallet, it doesn´t matter, because Barcelona gives you all options for being able to shop in the city.

If you have a more expensive taste and is looking for luxury brands such as Gucci, Chanel, Burberry or Louis Vuitton, Passeig de Gracia is the place to visit. You can take a long walk on the right or/and the left side of the street and enjoy both the beautiful arcitechture of the buildings and spend some money as going along the street.

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Buying property in Barcelona

Friday, 11 June 2010 10:11

After visiting Barcelona, a number of people consider purchasing a property here to use as a holiday home, and help cover costs by renting it out. Here are some things to consider when purchasing an investment property in Barcelona.

• If you intend to rent out short term (days/weeks) bear in mind that is is difficult to fill the property all year round, and most bookings will be for the weekends. The peak season, when you are likely to want to use the apartment, is when you can earn most. You would be better off using your apartment in the low season.
• You should factor into your budget maintanance costs, your apartment will be subject to wear and tear moreso than usual being a rental property, and you will need to replace worn furniture/fixtures and carry out repairs
• Renting out your property for periods of 6 months to a year will bring a more stable income, but it limits when you can use the property

It is important to contract a local real estate agent that specializes in foreign buyers, as the purchase process is different to many european countries, and there are many pitfalls you want to avoid. It also helps if the agency offers post-sale management services, as you will need someone local to take care of problems if you are living abroad.

If you want to visit, looking at some holiday apartments Barcelona for your stay.

Top 5 reasons to rent a holiday apartment

Thursday, 03 June 2010 08:50

There are plenty of options for Barcelona accommodation. Why should you choose a holiday apartment over a hostel, B&B, or hotel? Here are five suggests why an apartment might just be the holiday experience you were looking for.

Character

Hotels are built to be standard, uniform. It’s part of the brand – you know what you’re getting – so it isn’t a bad thing. But a holiday apartment, especially in Barcelona, will be overflowing with character, vibe, and atmosphere. Each will likely have its own unique décor and artwork, as well as those architectural quirks and charms that will have you falling in love and wondering how to take that dining room table home with you.

Local Perspective

If you’re in a hotel, you will likely be in a prime location, just off a shopping street or main plaza. But that isn’t where locals live. Apartments are still within easy access of the major attractions, but wouldn’t be nicer to stroll down the leafy boulevard or hidden alleyway that other locals use day in and day out? It’s a great way to get a feel for the city.

Cost Effective

Apartments are a great way to have a budget-friendly holiday; want to scrimp on meals? Go to the grocery and use the apartment kitchen. Skip the overpriced hotel buffets and make your own continental breakfast. Buy a bottle of wine for the park then finish it off back while relaxing in your own flat.

Privacy, Feels Like Home

A Barcelona apartment can afford you some quiet privacy you might not find in a hotel. You’ll have the place to yourselves, and most apartments are much more hands-off than a hotel. That’s no excuse to through an all out party, but it does mean you can relax a little more – after all, apartments do feel a little more cosy and home-y.

Meet the Locals

Locals often know if there is a holiday apartment in their building, and the friendlier ones will smile in passing and chat when provided the opportunity. You’ll also probably have more of an opportunity to meet and mingle with the owner and his/her friends than you would with the check-in staff.

I’m not against hotels or B&Bs, and I don’t claim to exclusively patronise apartments either. I just want to say that next time you’re planning your Barcelona travels, consider an apartment. You might enjoy the serendipity.

Andy Hayes is the Managing Editor of Sharing Travel Experiences, a travel lifestyle magazine. Visit their website for resources to help you travel more.