Happy Spring, my lovely Loco readers! While there’s still snow on the ground here in Philly, B-Cubed is coming back hot! I recently trekked to Barcelona during my week-long hiatus from classes and had an unforgettable experience. As a college student, I try to be as frugal as possible with my money. This is tough to do while on a trip overseas, but it is far from impossible. As always, here are a few tips I have to help you save some dough:
- Stay in a hostel- These places were made for college students who want to travel the world AND save some cash! I stayed at St. Christopher’s Inn, located in the heart of the Barcelona. With dorm style rooms starting at just 20 euros per night, it would be tough to find a better deal. While the idea of communal bedrooms and bathrooms may horrify you, I can assure you that it is no different than my college dorm building. Additionally, the bedrooms and bathrooms are both separated by gender. The only real time I spent in my hostel was when I needed to sleep, and I had 0 problems with my accommodations. And with the hostel being within walking distance of some popular city sights, you truly will not miss the superfluous bells and whistles that a higher end hotel would provide.
- Find good exchange rates- The currency exchange kiosk in El Prat airport may seem convenient, and on paper it is…but you are getting ripped off by doing this. The exchange rates at these convenient locations are insane, and it is best to wait and weigh your options before casting your U.S dollars away. You can always withdraw money from ATMs but watch out for foreign transaction fees. Also, make sure to alert your bank that you are going abroad before you depart.
- Purchase a public transport pass- Traveling via taxi can become pricey quickly, so take the city metro or bus to get around! For 35 euros, you can buy an Hola BCN card, which gives you unlimited journeys on Barcelona’s public transport for 5 days. Passes for 2,3, and 4 days are also available for purchase. This card came in handy when I visited La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, must see spots in Barcelona that were a hike from my hostel. The metro lines were easy to navigate and made reaching these places a breeze.
- Look for drink specials- If the bar or club scene is your forte, proceed with caution in this European city. While it is fine to treat yourself to an 8 euro mojito every once in a while, you do not want to blow your money on drinks that you could find elsewhere. If you look hard enough, you will find happy hours at many bars throughout the city. I recommend Belushi’s and The George Payne. Belushi’s offers 2 for 6 euro mixed spirits during happy hour and The George Payne has great sangria for 2 euros per glass. As far as clubs go, Boulevard gives free drinks to those who are given stamps on their hand at the door.
- Do not eat in touristy areas- I repeat…do NOT eat in areas that are highly populated by your fellow tourists. The restaurants in these areas are unnecessarily expensive and do not always offer authentic Spanish tapas and other cuisine. If you fear going off onto side streets, travel with a big group of friends and see what you can find! If you’re looking for a quick snack, head to La Boqueria. While tourists do typically visit this spectacular market, the locals do so as well to purchase their fresh meat and produce. The prices are reasonable and you can find something for everyone to enjoy there. Your stomach and your wallet will thank you for this one.
- Purchase tickets in advance- If you can, buy tickets for La Sagrada Familia and other famous attractions before you leave for your trip. This will help you save a few euros and you will avoid the colossal lines of tourists that form outside to gain entry. This leaves you with more time to explore the city and less time boring yourself to death.
I hope that you find these tips to be helpful the next time you travel to Barcelona. I aspire to return someday so I can more thoroughly explore this truly unique city. Until next time Loco readers….adiós!
