We were cruising out of Barcelona and needed a hotel for a few nights. Our research led us to the Catalonia Born and we were not disappointed. Upon driving up to the hotel in the taxi we thought we might have made a mistake because of the neighborhood. We just didn't understand that all of the neighborhoods in the old town looked like this. The exterior of the hotel is so insignificant that even after we had stayed there for a day we walked right by it not knowing it was there. One is not impressed with the lobby either, not that there is anything wrong with it, just that the best description of it is 'functional'. We had booked the suite on the 8th floor, #802. This was a two story suite with the living room on the main floor and bedroom on the second floor. Halfway up the steps to the bedroom there was a door that led to your own private terrace. This terrace was huge. You could have a party with 10 guests on that terrace and not be overcrowded in the least. It was a very pleasant surprise. The bedroom was big with a wonderful king bed and the adjoining bathroom was huge with a rain shower. Everything was spotless. In the late afternoon to evening there are free hors devoueres in the bar area which was a very nice touch. All in all this was a great stay. It was an easy walk to the Ramblas and the major square in town and the location turned out to be great. I would definitely spend the extra money for the suite, it was well worth it.
