Best for beach-lovers
HOTEL ARTS
One of Barcelona's greatest assets is its beach, and there's nowhere better to enjoy it than the city's original 'design' hotel, which opened in 1994 just a pebble's throw from the sand. Inside this landmark, 44-storey tower is contemporary glamour wherever you look, from the oversized chandeliers and marble floors in the lobby to the rooms with their quietly sophisticated taupe and ivory decor, Asprey bathroom products, and breathtaking views of the Med. Tuck into two-Michelin-starred fare at the restaurant or unwind in the superb rooftop spa. Bored of the beach? No problem - choose from the hotel's two outdoor pools instead.
ROOMS: From €330 (£274).
hotelartsbarcelona.com
Best for romantics
THE NERI
Hidden away down a narrow lane in Barcelona's historic Gothic Quarter, there's such a rarefied sense of hush and intimacy at this classy, converted 12th-century townhouse that it's hard to believe you're less than five minutes from the hubbub of Las Ramblas. The lobby sets a stylish tone on arrival, with contemporary lighting glowing against a wood-paneled ceiling and a sweeping, medieval stone staircase. The hotel's 22 rooms have a relaxed, modern feel with ivory walls, vibrant red rugs and luxurious bathrooms, and you'll find a plunge pool and loungers on the small rooftop terrace. The restaurant, meanwhile, serves up a mean line in Asian fusion fine dining, so there's no rush to leave the hotel when you get peckish.
ROOMS: From €270 (£224), room only.
hotelneri.com
Best for culture vultures
HOTEL CLARIS
This story is from the July/August 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July/August 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The craftspeople of Sarawak
From ancient pottery to embroidery fit for Miss World, meet the producers championing traditional artisanal creations in Malaysia's island region.
ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES
From ice skating and cross-country skiing to snowy train rides and cosy cabins stays, there are many memorable ways to make the most of the European winter
GOLDEN YEARS
Join the celebrations century of statehood as the island marks half a with fireworks and parades
A TASTE OF The Philippines
A TRIO OF BIG, BOLD FLAVOURS DOMINATES THIS ARCHIPELAGO NATION'S UNIQUE CUISINE
WHERE TO STAY Helsinki
FINLAND'S CAPITAL HAS AN OFFBEAT SIDE THAT SHINES THROUGH IN ITS CREATIVE HOTEL SCENE
A YEAR OF ADVENTURE
Make 2024 one to remember with these epic trips, putting fairytale castles, cultural exchange and slow travel front and centre
Bear Grylls
THE TV PRESENTER AND FORMER SAS OFFICER ON RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL, COMFORT ZONES AND EXPLORING THE WORLD ON HIS DOORSTEP
BOSTON
In the 19th century, Boston was nicknamed 'The Hub of the Solar System' such was its importance at the heart of the young American nation.
BALI
Known for its beaches, jungles and colourful temples, the Indonesian island of Bali is also home to a vibrant and hugely varied offering of local dishes, from grilled octopus with starfruit to rich Padang-style curry
MANCHESTER
A spirit of rebellious creativity infuses the northern city, with old factories turned into artists' studios and a unique sense of style on display throughout