I find it hard to believe that this hotel, opened in 2008, is only a three star quite frankly.

Calle Avinyo is my kind of area, it oozes personality. How best to describe it: when Adidas and American Apparel wanted to open flagship stores in Barcelona, they chose this street; when Manu Chao (the famous musician) chose to open a bar in Barcelona, he chose this street; when I'm simply dying for a quality mojito, it's this street I come to.

Avinyo is the epitomy of Barcelona.

So, when I saw the building that stood in the space that Hotel Catalonia Avinyo being knocked down, to make way for something new, I wondered what it would be - because it would have to work hard to fit in.

But fit in it does. It looks stunning. Take a look at the accompanying photos. That's why I'm so surprised it was only given three star status, for it deserves four, and the location deserves five.

Try the very good quality El Gran Cafe restaurant, straight across the road, if you are peckish - nice authentic spot. And here's one more option for eating, just around the corner, La Crema Canela, really very nice. For entertainment nearby try Tarantos, Sidecar Factory Club and the rather more posh Gran Teatre Del Liceu.