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use of the kitchens (there's one on each floor), while those staying in the “superior rooms”
(€20-30morepernight)haveaccesstothepenthouseterrace.Smallbreakfastinclude d,tw o-
night minimum, advance reservations essential (contact for directions), over-18s only. €90
Gran Hotel Torre Catalunya Av. de Roma 2-4 936 006 966, torrecatalunya.com ;
Sants-Estació; map . The landmark four-star-deluxe hotel outside Sants station towers over
the surrounding buildings, which means that the large, light, elegant rooms have sweeping
views from all sides (the pricier rooms - from €150 - above the twelfth floor are considered
“superior”). Breakfast on the 23rd floor is a buzz; there's a panoramic restaurant, too, plus
spa with indoor pool, whi le during the warmer months guests can also use the nearby Expo
hotel's outdoor pool. €125
Hotel Axel c/d'Aribau 33 933 239 393, axelhotels.com ; Universitat; map . Central to
the self-image of the city's gay quarter, the Gaixample, the Axel 's snazzy “heterofriendly”
boutique stylings are a real hit with gay visitors. It's a hip but relaxed space with designer
rooms (featuring complimentary beauty products), suites with private terraces, a bar and res-
taurant that are part of the local scene, plus a fabulous terrace pool and “Skybar” for posing
and preening, ex celle nt spa and fitness facilities, and a full range of massage and other treat-
ments available. €170
Hotel Inglaterra c/de Pelai 14 934 922 244, hotel-inglaterra.com ; Universitat; map .
Theboutiquelittlethree-starsistertotheDreta's Majestic hasanexcellentlocation,harmoni-
ously toned rooms and snazzy bathrooms. Space is at a premium, but some rooms have cute
private terraces, others street-side balconies, while best of all is the rom anti c roof terrace,
where you can take a dip in the recently added pool and sip on a cocktail. €133
Room Mate Emma c/del Rosselló 205 932 385 606, emma.room-matehotels.com ;
Diagonal; map . Ignore the tacky come-on (“do you want to sleep with me?” Erm, no thanks,
you're a marketing construct, not a real person), and get beyond the Battlestar Galactica -
style lobby, and you're left with Emma 's undeniably appealing barebones-chic rooms and
suites at realistic uptown prices. It's part of a Spanish chain with a fr esh, fun vibe and an ac-
commodating air, from free fruit at reception to breakfast until noon. €130
Somnio Barcelona c/de la Diputació 251 932 725 308, somniohostels.com . Pas-
seig de Gràcia; map . Sisters Lauren and Lee from Chicago bring their passion for Barcelona
right into their upscale pensión , with handy “tips for the day” left in the common room
each morning. Simple but smart rooms with wood-block floors cater for singles, couples and
friends (it's especially welcoming for women visitors), and there are two six-bed, single-sex
dorms. You'll pay another €10 for an en-suite room, while there's slightly more inexpen sive
shared bud getaccommodationattheirnewsisterhostel,Duo,inthesamedistrict.Dorms €22 ,
rooms €78
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