I have to be in Madrid for professional reasons and I've noticed that all prices of hotels are higher between 29th of january 2003 and beginning of february. Can anyone explain this ? Is there a special occasion and can I have a room at a reasonable price than ???

From January 29th to February 2nd, Fitur , the International Tourism fair takes places in Madrid. It is considered as the second most important tourism fair in the world and therefore there will be lots of people in Madrid during those days.

Man! I wish I could go to that myself!! I've been reading about it on Madridiario.es . I wonder if you need a special invitation or if it's open to the public.

Nickie, while I'm not sure, I doubt that " hostales " would raise their prices during this convention time. Why not try one of those? While these aren't exactly like HOTELS, at least you'll save yourself an arm - if not a leg as well (this is a saying - meaning you'll save a lot of money). Good luck finding something affordable!

Saludos, MadridMan

Thank you very much for the replies !!! I will stay in the Asturias Hotel until the 29 th anyhow... is this okay ? I don't seem to have enough confidence in hostals... maybe I'll try one on my next visit... and I will have a look while I'm there this time.