Well, based on your input and the neverending commentary from a friend from Badajoz, I just hung up the phone with the parador in Merida. The receptionist was extremely polite and I'm hopeful that my stay will be successful. Not sure if English is in the cards for my poor husband but that's what he gets for marrying a Spanish teacher. Thanks again!
Debbie
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Granada, tierra soñada por mí,
mi cantar se vuelve gitano
cuando es para ti.