EVADE HOTELS- BARCELONA

We're pretty obsessed with Catalonia (or Catalunya depending on who you're speaking to)... we can't quite put our finger on exactly why. Perhaps it's the fierce pride and independent strength of the people, or the multitude of converging landscapes from mountains to beaches, or the intoxicating wine and food, or maybe just the old-fashioned fun of decoding the language especially if you're a Spanish-speaker. Whatever it is, it continues to lure us back. It's easy to get drawn in by Barcelona's wonders, but on your next visit, consider moving a bit into the interior and discovering two unique boutique hotels within the EVADE portfolio that both define a true Catalunyan experience.

Are you into design? Be overwhelmed at the cutting-edge The Mirror where you'll surround yourself in dazzling white reflections of grandeur and dine on contemporary cuisine prepared by their 2-star Michelin Chef, with the city's most bustling streets just below. www.themirrorbarcelona.com

Obsessed with the city's architecture? Explore Hotel Cram whose majestic modernist, avant-garde interior somehow comfortably contrasts with its supreme comfort and warm, inviting atmosphere. Cuisine here is equally as intriguing with it's signature Michelin star-winning Restaurant Gaig, founded in 1869 and still churning out tremendous Catalan cuisine. www.hotelcram.com

Serious foodie? Well, then you'll fit right in at ABaC Restaurant & Hotel a bit further inland ..... It's all about the fabulous modern cuisine here, spearheaded by their own in -house 2 Star Michelin restaurant that allows you into this culinary palace for a peek, and an opportunity to select your wine from over 800 varieties. During any times where you're not sampling the sumptuous cuisine (which may not be many), you have your choice of one of 15 exclusively lavish rooms bestowing upon you the finest linens, soothing cream colored decor, extreme technology, Hermes bath amenities and privacy. www.abacbarcelona.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 10% savings on accommodations and breakfast, plus welcome cocktail upon arrival and early check-in/late check-out*. Email info@theexplorateurportfolio.com for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

HOTEL U-232- If you’re going to travel to Barcelona, there is simply no other way to experience this vibrant city than putting yourself right in the heart of the eclectic mix of cultural sights, amazing shopping, and fabulous food. Just remember this 4 digit code- U232.

This dynamically chic boutique hotel is set in the Eixample, which is a most privileged downtown location close to the famed Paseo de Gracia y Avenida Diagonal (ie, exactly where you want to be.) It’s done up in a warm style that’s an intriguing mix of modern and colonial, replete with careful attention to detail and excellent service. We’re talking design by Rosa Rosello, classic elements and avant-garde furnishings by Philippe Starck, and their latest, most gorgeous addition- a collection of enchanting vintage photos by Swedish photographer Maria Espeus. Guests to the hotel are now treated to a gorgeous collection of black-and-white snaps, revealing the enchantment of a dream-like Barcelona through its districts, markets, and hidden little corners of exceptional days gone by. It is said that some of these photos have served as inspiration to the hotels’ most exquisite signature cocktails including the Boquería, Golondrinas and Rotonda.

Rooms here are sleek and comfortable, set in 5 different category types, all in neo-classical décor ,all peaceful and bright with natural light. The Family Rooms are a particularly excellent value, 2 connecting spaces, 2 bathrooms and large enough for a group of 5. Delight in each day by beginning with a sumptuous buffet breakfast serving all manner of local traditional dishes, cheeses and cured meats, and wind down the day at their sexy outdoor 10^th floor terrace bar where you can relax with a drink while listening to soft jazz, with the sounds of the city in the background. www.u232hotel.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary welcome drink upon arrival, wi-fi, assistance with sightseeing planning and daily newspaper. Email us at info@theexplorateurportfolio.com for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!