Hotel Barcelona Universal

Super attitude of staff

I travel a lot. The friendliness and service orientation of the front desk staff (especially Christina and Francisco) was above expectations. They were sunny, helpful, smart, and went out of their way to answer questions and give support. The rooms were very nice and location is great. Definitely

Great room for the money

I had read several reviews before choosing this hotel. Several guests had commented on the uncomfortable beds and boy they were not kidding. Other than the very hard beds, everything else was great. We didn't eat at the restaurant, swim in the pool, or drink at the bar so I can't comment on those services however, the free internet was wonderful!

Guest did not leave a comment.

SUPER SUPRISE

This was a huge suprise for us. We didnt know what to expect...but the room was beautiful. We had a corner room which was bigger then the standard room. Large room and sitting area. But the bathroom was HUGE. we had a tub...seprate shoer...2 sinks...even music system in the bathroom apart from the living/bed area. The area is not bad at all. A bit edgy...but as long as you mind your own miz...you have no problems. Plenty of places (sidewalk cafe) on the block to eat at and CHEAP. short walk to the ramblas and the subway was directly in front of hotel. SO makes this a perfect location.

Guest did not leave a comment.

Great location, great restaurant

This hotel is located in walking distance from the center and has an excellent restaurant. Staff is very friendly.

Guest did not leave a comment.

Great room - clean and comfortable - free internet

The hotel itself was very good; the room was spacious and modern looking, bed was very comfortable. I was totally surprised by the free internet - that was a treat. I had interaction with 3 of the hotel's front desk people - they were all competent, however, two were not friendly - the third was friendly and helpful. The door man did not help us with our bags - no one did - no one asked us if they can help us. I wasn't too impressed with the surrounding neighborhood.

If you like Cold Showers.....

In general the Hotel was fine in terms of location and service but no hot water in the shower was not our idea of fun. Service was very helpful.

Guest did not leave a comment.

Great Hotel

Easy 8-15 min walk to Las Ramblas, Barrio Gotico, Plaza Cataluna; Metro station right in front and on main taxi and bus lines. Clean comfortable rooms. Our few interactions with staff were very helpful/courteous; did not eat at their restaurant. Free WiFi and newspaper. Definitely would go back. 9/9/09

Needs an entertaining english speaking tv station

Only english speaking tv station was CNBC which is all business / stock market. Very boring after about a minute. We could only listen to the instrumental music station. They didn't even have BBCA which could be an alternative.

Pre and Post Cruise Stay Continued

If you want Water,soda,wine or beer you can buy it for much less at the small supermarkets three to four blocks away from the hotel ie. four 1.5 liter bottles of water for two euros,as opposed to 1.5 euros for 12oz bottle. There is no english speaking TV in the hotel. Bring a DVD player with movies Especially if you have children!!!! Be carefull at the restaurants. They charge for everything including bread. They also Tend too be dishonest reveiw your bill before paying. Also, I did not know this, but you dont tip in europe like in the states. I was told you do not leave a tip especially not 20%. I did not find out until the end of my stay. Hope this helps with your vacation.

Pre and Post Cruise Stay

Every thing which has been written about his hotel is true. The beds are hard, but I slept great. Stay on the top floors and you will not have a noise problem. The front desk staff is a little rude, but the rest of the staff was very pleasant. you will not get in your room before 3:00 pm so bring a swim suit in your carry on. you can use the pool or go to the beach. The beach is ten minutes away and is very nice and safe. Take a taxi its about seven euros and is worth it. The front desk staff worried us needlessly, by telling us the beach was full of pick-pockets. We found a beach full of tourists.