the price was right and the location is quite convenient - just a few blocks' walk from stops on two Metro lines. it's close to some attractions, but not right on top of them, so you get a break from the madness. there's also some shopping and small restaurants in the area, which we couldn't help but compare to Long Island City.
the breakfast buffet was surprisingly good (7.5 Euro a person) and the service here was helpful and friendly. their English was great, and when I couldn't figure out a phrase or two in Spanish (or attempt to cross-reference from Italian) they were quite understanding.
the hotel was modern and clean, with a red/black theme (my two favorite colors), a free Internet cafe/printing area for guests, and an inexpensive bar serving both delicious coffee and booze. there's even a small private outdoor eating/drinking terrace. alright, it's between some buildings, but it's outside!
rooms were cozy but comfortable. the bed felt amazing to crash on, especially after all the stress and aggravation from our flights and lost luggage. the free wifi was reliable.
my only minor annoyance was getting a lecture on environmentalism when I asked for a second set of towels - I know, green this, efficiency that, yada yada yada - but after spending a day and a half traveling and finding out our luggage took a detour due to British Airways' incompetence, this was really the last thing my exasperated ears needed to hear.
I would definitely recommend this Ibis for stays in Barcelona. including breakfast and taxes, it came to about 110 Euro total. read more