Jan 24

Jan 24 Mercer Hotel Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the great cruise embarkation/disembarkation port cities in the world. In fact, Barcelona is now the 4th most popular cruise port! There is so much to see and do in Barcelona that several days are needed to even begin to take it all in. When traveling to Barcelona, it is important to find the perfect hotel accommodations. We always look for hotels with a great reputation, good location and excellent service. We found just such a hotel during our last visit to Barcelona: The Mercer Hotel. Not only is Mercer Hotel Barcelona listed in the Top 100 Hotels by International Traveller, but we would go so far as to say it is our favorite hotel in Barcelona!

Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter and with just 28 rooms, the Mercer Hotel Barcelona is a unique establishment that has restored an historically valuable heritage building, whose origins go back to the 1st century AD. The Mercer has all the modern conveniences you expect from a world-class boutique hotel, but signs of the city's ancient past can be seen everywhere you look. Some of the original Roman city walls have been preserved in one section of the hotel.

*The view of the Gothic Quarter from the rooftop terrace*

We arrived at The Mercer a day later than expected due to travel delays. Our flight out of Dallas had been canceled and, to make matters worse, when we did arrive in Barcelona a day later than expected, we did so with none of our luggage. When we arrived at the hotel to check in, we were warmly welcomed with a beverage. When the concierge noticed that we had no luggage, he could not have been more accommodating. He took down all of our lost luggage information and said he would contact the airline on our behalf. It was nice to know that someone was actually doing something to solve our problem. He also gave us directions to a shopping center within walking distance where we could purchase some incidentals just in case our luggage did not arrive. The following morning, the concierge said he had been in contact with American Airlines and that our luggage was on the flight due to arrive in Barcelona that morning. It was recommended that I take a taxi back to the airport to collect the luggage just to be safe. We were scheduled to depart the hotel at noon to embark a cruise ship and he was concerned that the luggage may not be delivered in time. As it turned out, he was correct. I went to the airport and, thankfully, our luggage was there! Crisis averted.

*Rickee with Jordi Garcia, Mercer Hotel Sales Manager*

Our ultra-contemporary Deluxe room was located on the second floor and everything looked brand new. The bed was a welcome sight after being up for more than 30 hours and all the jet lag.The room was whisper quiet and comfortable. The beautiful beamed ceiling and hardwood floors added flair to the decor. Large windows overlooked a courtyard with a two-story wall on one end that was covered with aromatic plants. We could open the window and breathe in the wonderful smell of the plants. Excellent Molton Brown bathroom amenities complemented the roomy shower which had both a rain-shower head and a handheld wand. The complimentary Wi-Fi Internet service was very fast. Our Deluxe room rate included breakfast which was beautifully presented and delicious. The hotel has a very classy, and well-stocked bar just down the corridor from the check-in desk. An outdoor swimming pool, bar and terrace are located on the top floor of the hotel. From what we are told, this is a popular spot for locals to visit in the summer. The view of the Gothic Quarter from the terrace was amazing!

Perhaps the best feature of The Mercer is the location. The hotel is situated right in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Narrow cobblestone streets, originally designed and built for horses, not cars, make for interesting walks through the old part of the city. There are dozens of restaurants and bars within quick walking distance from the hotel. And, the famous Las Ramblas shopping district is less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel. The oceanfront is also within easy walking distance.

When you consider the location, the amenities and the unmatched service, The Mercer Hotel is our pick as the best place to stay in Barcelona before or after your next cruise.

The Mercer Hotel offers the following services: internet Access, outdoor pool, free Wi-fi, babysitting service upon request, handicapped access, laundry, private function facilities, private transfers, valet parking, personal shopper upon request, in-room massages, car rental, bike rental, hair dresser, shoe shining, and private tours. In-room facilities: safebox, designer toiletries, turndown service, hairdryer, free Wi-fi, daily newspaper, rain effect shower sound-proof rooms, bathtub in some rooms, 24-hr. room service, satellite TV, ironing service.

Visit theMercer Hotel website

Originally posted on: 12/16/2013