Holiday apartments Barcelona.

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.