My daughter and I truly lucked out by choosing to stay at Oliver's apartment in Sarria/Barcelona. Prior to our arrival, he made sure we knew the best travel options for finding the place. Once we got there, his wife, Marta, was there to welcome us to the apartment, which includes an expansive roof deck overlooking the city and another small balcony that is perfect for gazing over the street below.

Soon after we arrived, Oliver talked us through a small phone emergency and, whenever we hit a snag, he seemed to be right there with the answer. Despite the fact that I have never traveled overseas before, I felt completely at home under Oliver's care.

The apartment is right at the center of beautiful and very friendly Sarria, where we watched a series of evening concerts and enjoyed the festival of Sant Joan, which includes fireworks and bonfires. Everything you could possible need is located in the town and the apartment is a short walk to the bus line, which takes you to all of the sites and wonders Barcelona has to offer.

The apartment itself is extraordinarily comfortable. There is one bed and a couch that works quite well as a second bed. The patio doors open up to welcome in the night air and the apartment includes air conditioning for the hot days. The kitchen and bathroom are well appointed, with everything the traveler needs (including emergency coffee for the first morning).

My daughter and I were charmed from the first day through the last. I would recommend this apartment to anyone visiting Barcelona.