In a few weeks, I am packing up my carry on bag and hopping on a late afternoon flight to Europe, kick-starting my 50th birthday celebrations – my gift to myself – in Italy.

I have spent a fair bit of time plotting my route, planning experiences, and picking hotels for my adventure.

After years of experience – yes, I know I’m enormously blessed to travel as much as I do – I have developed a strategy for picking the perfect hotel in Europe, particularly if I am travelling on my own.

1. Location, location, location. I always book hotels that are central to the historic hub of the city. They may or may not cost a bit more – simple economics – but the value of a central location is huge to me. If picked properly, I can step outside my door and be right in the action. European cities are wonderful at night – lots of pedestrians, window shopping, and excellent street lighting – and by choosing a centrally located hotel, you are safe and sound in the midst of it.  Don’t forget – dinner starts at 9 or 10pm. Picture yourself drinking wine and enjoying homemade pasta, while people watching from a cafe table in a beautiful public square.
2. Single rooms.  Be prepared for the fact that European hotels are wonderfully different than our North American cookie-cutter hotels – they are quirky, particularly in historic areas. One of the good bits about that is the availability of single rooms … cosy, clean, and cheaper than a regular hotel room. I love this option!
3. Use Google Maps.  I always pull up Google Streetview to see what the neighbourhood looks like. I like to know that there is a pizzeria in the immediate vicinity, just in case I am craving a late night margherita pizza. 😉 You can also make a decision – does this look like someplace I will be comfortable walking alone? You can also see where transit stops are on those maps – good info!
4. Check in with Tripadvisor. A bit of a caveat: I consider Tripadvisor (and similar sites) to be a bit of a double edged sword. I will always check the reviews of my choices … with an eye to understanding that “Barbara from Houston” who is upset that her hotel in Siena’s historic district isn’t close enough to a Starbucks may not have the same travel goals as I do … and weigh my options. I do want to know if a hotel has horrible customer service or a problem with mold and/or mice. Other than that, I will likely book a room. These sites will also help you know if there are lots of tricky stairs to be navigated or if parking is a problem. Take a look at the ‘traveller’s photos’, particularly if you want to see what the loo likes like!
5. Don’t let availability of parking determine your hotel choice. If you are choosing a hotel in the city centre – many of which are off limits to cars – there will be parking garages nearby. Ask at the hotel … its an easy solution and keeps you in the best part of the city.
6. Set an average per night price that you are comfortable with.  This approach to booking rooms allows me a bit of flexibility when choosing hotels. In Italy, I find that an average of $100/night gets me into really nice spots – not fancy – that are safe, clean, and well-located. That’s what I’m looking for as a single, female traveller.

As an example, check out Hotel Alessandra in Florence.

It’s a lovely traditional hotel, set in the midst of Florence’s historic core. One block to the Ponte Vecchio, a few cobble-stoned blocks to the main squares, museums, and the Duomo. Everything you need at your feet.

You will see that there a multitude of room choices, from family rooms to singles. Last summer, I stayed in the pink single room for less than $100CAN (an early, discounted booking) including breakfast. It was perfectly clean and cosy, with a lovely washroom. The breakfast was great and – oh, Italy, I love you so much – they make your morning coffee to order.

I have started using Booking.com as my preferred tool for booking hotel rooms in Europe. It works for me – all of my booking information is collected in one online spot, making the traditional hunt for emails obsolete. My iPad and I love that! It also allows you to book early – without a deposit – and change your plans, as they emerge.

Finding the perfect hotel for you and your travel needs can be daunting … I hope you find these tips empowering.

Carry on!