Parador in danger?

[Deleted member 3000]

http://travel.nytimes.com/2013/03/03/tr ... d=all&_r=0

 

[fraluchi]

http://travel.nytimes.com/2013/03/03/travel/spains-paradors-face-an-uncertain-future.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

Yes, unfortunately they are in danger of getting closed and/or changing hands. Operating costs (maintenance, personnel) of these institutions are prohibitive, even more so when occupancies have gradually decreased. To recuperate occupancy by lowering rates (shifting markets) one needs lean management expertise.

 

[Kathy F.]

Are any of these near any of the Caminos? Although it doesn't sound as if weary pilgrims are their clientele of choice :wink:

 

[ffp13]

Damn, where will I stay now ?

 

[peregrina2000]

I know that the comparable Portuguese system, the Pousadas, have been privatized (at least in terms of management) and are now run by the Pestana group. Maybe that's what will happen in Spain. I can't believe the system will shut down. What would they do with all those castles and monasteries?!

Footek, as far as paradors on Caminos, here are some of them, but I may have forgotten some

Frances -- Santo Domingo de la Calzada (2), Leon, Villafranca del Bierzo, and of course Santiago

Camino del Norte has a few -- Santillana (2), Villaba, Ribadeo

Invierno -- Monforte de Lemos

Via de la Plata -- Merida, Zamora, Zafra

Camino de Levante -- Albacete, Avila, Toledo

Sometimes there are very good deals on paradores. I stayed in the one in Zamora for two nights for 60 euros a night. So if you're looking for the luxury of ridiculously thick towels and the highest thread count sheets I've ever slept on, you could give it a try. The staff has never blinked an eye at me and my backpack, though as the NYT article says, the staff can be generally a bit stand-off-ish.

Of course not all pilgrims have the finances to consider a night in one of these places, and opinions are divided among others about whether it "feels good" to take one or a few nights in the lap of luxury, but I say chacun a son gout. (or at least I think that's how it's said). Buen camino, Laurie