NH Barcelona La Maquinista

There isn't much to set his hotel apart from any other business-oriented NH chain outpost, though it's at least one of the more modern additions to the roster. Potted trees flank the entrance, and tall trees line the sidewalk out front, adding to the suburban-hotel vibe of the property. The lobby is spacious and open, with the reception desk in back. A gray contemporary sofa provides a place for guests to sit, and they can read the free newspapers there. The restaurant and bar are adjacent to reception, though this NH is a quiet place without much of a social atmosphere. It's a simple hotel that draws all sorts of travelers who don't mind being away from the city center and the major tourist attractions, though many are business travelers and corporate groups. 

This hotel is in the San Andreu district in northeast Barcelona, next to Centro Comercial La Maquinista, one of Spain’s largest shopping malls. In addition to shops, the mall also offers a number of restaurants. The city center is about 20 minutes away by car or 30 minutes by public transportation. The closest metro station -- Bon Pastor -- is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Barcelona El Prat Airport is about 25 minutes away by car, or an hour by public transportation. 

The hotel offers single, double, and triple rooms to accommodate from one to three people. Rooms are simple, with wood floors, modern light-wood furniture, white bedspreads, and white walls. Light fixtures are attached to tall headboards. Striped drapery, an upholstered desk chair, and modern art add a little color, though it's all quite bland and corporate on the whole. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and safes, but there are no coffeemakers. Modern tiled bathrooms come with bidets, hairdryers, shower/tub combos or showers only, and basic toiletries. Some of the rooms have views of Agbar Tower, a striking 38-story skyscraper. Connecting rooms are available. 

Features aren't numerous here, though what's on offer is helpful, and the adjacent mall has plenty more activity for those who need it. The on-site restaurant and bar serves a buffet breakfast and Mediterranean fare for lunch and dinner. It's an airy and bright space with modern wood furniture and contemporary art on the walls. The bar area has cushy arm chairs and tables for lounging, as well as a flat-screen TV for watching sporting events. A private dining room can be reserved for groups. A self-serve bar is open 24/7, offering drinks and snacks with a microwave for heating items. Two meeting rooms can accommodate groups of up to 25 people. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Parking is available on-site for a fee.