Accommodation in Barcelona: Apartments close to famous monuments

Sometimes when we travel, we become particularly excited by the idea of staying in a certain neighbourhood, either next to a monument that we love or by a certain location like the beach. Therefore, here is a list of three apartments that are near some emblematic monuments in Barcelona. All of these apartments can be found on the OK Apartment Barcelona website, a great place to go if you're looking to see what kind of accommodation is available in Barcelona.

Apartment Top Sagrada Familia:

Without a doubt, this is one of the most wonderful apartments on offer, not only because when you look out of the window you can see the architectural masterpiece and most visited tourist attraction in Spain by Antoni Gaudí - La Sagrada Familia, but also for its modern decor. With parquet flooring and lots of natural light, it goes without saying that this accommodation is better than most luxury hotels. There is 70 sq metres of space and a capacity to sleep up to 6 people. What's more, apart from having La Sagrada Familia on your doorstep, you're only a 15 minute walk from Passeig de Gracia, where there are two more Guadí masterpieces, amongst other fantastic modernist buildings and the best highstreet in the city to go shopping. The price? €28 per person/night.

Apartment Beat Almatí II:

This is designer apartment (also with parquet flooring) can accommodate up to three people. With a spacious shower, it's located a few metres away from Park Güell. The park has been a public space for years, but in October 2013 it will cost €5 - €10 to enter. The park is an amazing world apart from the urban city where you can escape to the curves, colours, and forms of Gaudí's imagination. The Gracía district in which the apartment is located is known for its authentic and non-touristic atmosphere. The prices start from €30 per person/night.

Apartment Gaudí Pedrera

In case you haven't guessed already, the final apartment is also near one of Guadí's works. An 8th floor apartment, you have spectacular views of Barcelona each and every day. Located right in front of La Pedrera on Passeig de Gracia, it has lots of natural light and can accommodation up to 7 people across its 70 sq metres. This property has 3 double bedrooms and is ideal if you want to stay in the city centre. It's on the best street in the city for shopping and you'll find many restaurants and bars in the area. It's a great starting point for any journey, with Casa Batlló, Las Ramblas, Barcelona Cathedral, and La Sagrada Familia all within walking distance.

Two romantic cities for Valentines Day: Barcelona and Malaga

If these two cities have anything in common, Barcelona and Málaga, it's that they can be very romantic if you just know the right places to visit. Coming up are just some of the parts of the city that you shouldn't miss out on if you're looking for a romantic journey.

Barcelona: The enamoring city

In the Catalan Capital, there are some fundamentals that you need for cover if you're planning things to do with your partner.

Walk around Port Vell at sunset: It's a precious little walk surrounded by boats while the sun says its farewell until tomorrow. You can take advantage of this opportunity by having dinner on one of the restaurants terraces in the area. On Sunday mornings on Port Vell there are stalls that sell crafts and handmade goods.

Lose yourselves in Laberint d'Horta: This labyrinth parks is the oldest in Barcelona and without a shadow of a doubt the most romantic. The romance will never be ruined by overcrowding either, as there is a limit on the amount of people allowed in at once, give you the time and space to wander in this small paradise. It is however, hard to find, and away from the centre, but it's free on Sundays and Wednesdays.

The breathtaking views of Tibidabo: There are some amazing views to experience from Tibidabo, so don't miss out on this chance. It's a very romantic and peaceful place, surrounded by nature (if you stay away from the theme park).

Rent Barcelona accommodation in El Born: El Born is a district that's perfect for couples. It's full of very cute restaurants and small venues for a drink. There are also a lot of local shops. An apartment will also give you more privacy.

Malaga - Southern Charm

Plaza de la Merced: It's one of the most popular squares in the city, especially owing to the fact that many artists have portrayed it in their works. The area is full of places to take your partner to enjoy the sun setting. And if you're fans of art, you'll find the Museo Casa Natal de Pablo Picasso here, the birthplace of the famous artist.

La Malagueta: This is the main beach in Malaga and is lovely place to see the sunrise. There are also a lot of great restaurants along the promenade that you can enjoy in the evening.

Paseo de la Farola: Located near the port of Malaga, of which it has some fantastic views. The lighthouse, called La Farola, is a symbol of Malaga, and you will find it along this walk. It's almost 200 years old!

Events in Barcelona Worth Visiting For

Barcelona is amongst the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe, and it is guaranteed that whatever time of year you visit there will always be a variety of events to please locals and tourists alike. These events are a great opportunity to sample Spanish culture and can create the linchpin for a visit to the area. Below are three events occurring in Barcelona this January.

Catalan Folk Music Festival

Folk music is a large part of Catalan culture, so this festival is a great excuse to visit Barcelona and really soak up the rich culture of this area. This festival runs from January to March and visits various different venues around the city. Visitors can not only sample the traditional music but also attend folk-related workshops.

Sa Pobla

This annual festival is a must for those who enjoy a carnival atmosphere. A combination of bands, singers and red devils makes for an electric atmosphere, filled with culture, in a traditional tribute to the Spanish patron saint of animals. It is tradition that the festival goers sample the range of foods available whilst enjoying the range of open fires and bonfires. This is a truly Spanish Experience.

Procession of the Three Kings

This post Christmas Tradition sees the residents of Barcelona gather at the steps of the harbour to welcome the three kings, which is signalled by an extravagant firework display as well as an eruption of foghorns. This is followed by a procession through the streets of Barcelona before ending at the fountain of Montjuic where specially written classical music is played.

5 Most Luxurious Spa Resorts in the World

Beau Rivage Palace, Switzerland

With stunning views of the Alps, this is the perfect location for a luxury spa. The spa at the Beau Rivage Palace is a 15,000 square feet suite with its own Turkish bath, Bain Japonais and treatments including Taoist face-care massage and Balinese massage.

Chiva Som, Thailand

The Chiva Som has views over the Gulf of Thailand and seven acres of stunning gardens in which to walk and relax. There are water therapy suites for men and women, aqua skin polish and other hydrotherapy treatments. Guests’ rooms also have butler service and private balconies to make sure any visitors are fully relaxed throughout their stay.

Como Shambhala Retreat, Turks and Caicos

The Como Shambhala is renowned for its retreats, with specialist spa food and a variety of specialists instructing courses from yoga and Pilates to meditation and pranayama. There are double treatment rooms which make it ideal for couples, as well as the outdoor monsoon showers and Japanese baths.

Four Seasons Resort, Thailand

Four seasons in Thailand is a spa villa, with a unique Thai temple design. Facilities include rain shower massage beds, open air treatment terraces and aromatherapy steam rooms. A variety of luxury Elemis products are used throughout the various treatments and warm foot compresses are given the beginning of every session to help focus the mind and senses.

Hayman Island Resort, Australia

Based in the Great Barrier Reef and on its own private island, Hayman Island resort is the epitome of tranquility. The resort is only accessible by sea-plan, helicopter or boat from the adjacent Hamilton Island and south of Cairns. The resort houses 13 treatment rooms, two relaxation lounges and wet treatment room. There are also exclusive treatments including facials and massages developed by the Champs Elysée Guerlain Institute.
Whatever the budget for luxury holiday, always still make that you have full holiday insurance cover to cover all eventualities. More expensive policies do not necessarily mean better cover, so do still read the small print and consideration all options when booking your insurance. You can more ideas on symondstravel.com if you are looking for more travel motivation.