Overlooking the Roman Wall of Barcelona is the very majestic, very chic Grand Hotel Central. Despite its very central location, all windows are triple glazed or totally sound proof so one has sensational views but without any noise to ruin a fabulous night’s sleep. A rooftop terrace with an infinity pool offers sweeping views of the city out to the ocean, rooms are incredibly spacious considering the original 1920s design of the building’s interior (narrow but long) and each has the latest in MP3, television, DVD and internet technology. The original frontage of the building is a poignant reminder of its history (it houses one of the first lifts in Barcelona) but the décor is modern and sleek. All rooms have exterior views but the low lighting, original bronze doors and soundproofing make this an oasis in the centre of the city. The hotel’s restaurant, Actual, is fast becoming a city hotspot; open to the public for lunch and dinner it’s permanently buzzing and offers a great blend of Mediterranean and Catalan cuisine.