I plan on staying at the Hostal Hispano America @ 63 Gran Via in mid-November with my girl friend. Can anyone advise me about this Hostal and the neighborhood it is located in? Is is safe and convenient to all worth doing? How good are the premises? Thanks

Hi Billy:

I have never stayed at that particular hostal, but did stay at one next to it, Hostal Buenos Aires, and it is in a very convenient area. The Gran Vía is one of the main highways of Madrid and you are close to everything - Plaza de España, Puerta de Sol, el Prado, Plaza de Callao, Plaza Mayor, el Retiro, ... there are also bus and metro stops everywhere, and a special taxi lane. The Gran Vía itself is really interesting, there are many restaurants and cafés, not to mention movie theaters and shops. As for safety, I have never had any problems in that area, the only thing that I or anyone else would probably tell you is the usual - no matter where you are, always keep an eye on your belongings and surroundings.