Reviews

Equity Point Centric

When we decide to seek accommodation in a hostel, we never expect to find something like Paseo de Gracia’s Equity Point Centric. Located in an area bursting with activity for tourists and locals, the truth is that both its privileged location and its façade foretell a certain level of quality, although –as they say- sometimes appearances can be deceiving, so we won’t be completely aware of where we are until we are actually in our room. In this case, neither appearances nor prices (double room with bathroom: 86 euros in low season and 130 euros in peak season, including breakfast consisting of milk, coffee, fruit juices, cereals, fruit and pastries) are deceiving whatsoever.

Clearly aimed at the international traveller and with capacity for 400 people, premises suit the needs of young travellers who, aware of the high standard of living in most of European cities, are willing to pay more instead of settling for one of the shabby guest houses or cheap hotels spread through downtown Barcelona.

The hostel, that belongs to Equity Point –also owning two other hostels in the Catalan capital, one in Madrid and a wonderful hostel in the medina of Marrakech-, has a staff team that is willing to make things easy. As soon as we enter the building we come across the reception (open 24 hours for both check in and out), where we will be welcomed, at least, in Spanish or English. After the check in we will be given a card we are supposed to show every time we get in the hostel.

A small lift takes the guests to the different floors of the hostel, that boasts a big common area and a bar with the perfect atmosphere for social relations. Double bedrooms are not very large but are more than enough, simple and well decorated, and equipped with a wardrobe, bedside tables, linen and a fantastic common terrace with views to the emblematic Paseo de Gracia and the roof of the neighbouring Casa Batlló. Bathrooms are impeccably clean, just like rooms are, and have a toilet, a small shower and a wash basin. Dorms (up to 12 people and a lot cheaper –we can actually sleep from 24 euros/person in peak season) are strategically situated on other floors in order to isolate the double and single rooms from the possible noise aroused when travelling in a group. Most of them have private bathroom.

A stone’s throw away from the main interesting spots in the city, Equity Point Centric –with access for handicapped people and free internet- is perfect for young travellers on a middle budget who want to enjoy both Barcelona’s charms and a nice stay during which they can make friends and share experiences with other travellers.