Hotel HCC Regente - Barcelona, Spain     

Booked through Lastminute.com as one of their secret hotel deals. Not a bad location, away from the hustle and bustle of the Ramblas, but within walking distance of all of the key sites. Based in the area of the designer shops (Burberry, Diesel, Massimo Dutti etc...), very cool but very expensive. Hotel itself decent although nothing special. The roof terrace sets it apart from the average hotel - great for chilling out in the sun with a cool beer. Surprisingly sparsely populated too. Room pretty basic, but no problems with it. Slightly disappointed having read other reviews that we didnt get an exercise bike! Staff helpful, particularly Eric - who managed to perform an excellent Manuel impression with very little effort... Bonus is that when you ask for one tuna sandwich, you end up with two....

This was OK but wouldn't consider it to be a 4 star hotel. There were a few pluses though: the reception staff (particularly Manuel) were very friendly, efficient and really helpful. We got there early after getting off a cruise and luckily were able to check in OK. The pastries at breaksfast were gorgeous! Got a free welcome Cava served by a very friendly barman. Hotel room was spotlessly clean. Sweet terrace with a stunning view. Watched a thunderstorm in the distance and it was spectacular. Toiletries OK and free bedroom slippers. Minus points: steps up to reception with heavy luggage, small pool (like a pond!), cooked breakfast included hot dog sausages and scrambled eggs which was an omelette chopped up. Room was in a dark and dingy corner somewhere and the view comprised of a wall and windows with an air conditioning unit covered in pigeon poo and cigarette butts. The shower head couldn't be adjusted. Perhaps we got this room because we arrived so early. Suggest you ask for one with a balcony overlooking rambla de catalunya. Location was not for us as it was in the business and fashion area (eg nearby Chanel and Prada shops) - it lacked 'local' atmosphere. No double bed but two singles. Only one small flat pillow per bed with no spares. Stayed on Sunday night but were disconcerted to find a security guard patrolling reception to protect the only female receptionist on duty! Overall a perfectly acceptable hotel, but not 4 stars in my opinion.