Sunday, May 16, 2010

Barcelona and Its New Obra Mestra

Located on the most expensive street of Spain in the city's most important shopping hub, the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona captures the imaginative art of maximizing space.  Built within the walls of a 19th C bank, the new luxury hotel boasts 98 rooms designed by Patricia Urquoila (B&B Italia).








Have a quick swim at the rooftop pool and while you're at it, map out your stroll through its bird's-eye view of the iconic city's cornerless carrers ~ from being entranced by the grandeur of the massive cathedral Segrada Familia (expected completion 2026), to being mesmerized by the fantastical modernist buildings along La Manzana de la Discordia (Casa Lleo-Morera, Casa Amatller and Casa Batllo).  Perhaps take a walk down the somewhat cheesy tourist attraction of a street called Las Ramblas, have tapas + aperetivo in one of the many vibrant bars, then top your evening off with al fresco dining at the hotel terrassa.

Last but not least, head back to the sexy suite and freshen up before starting your night out in one of Europe's Top 10 Party Cities (#4!). What happens in Barcel, stays in Barcel 




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