The apartment was even better in reality: airy, bright, spacious rooms with beautiful high ceilings. It is finished to a very high standard with great attention to detail, tastefully decorated and spotlessly clean. The bathroom is delightful and the shower works very well. The enclosed balcony off the sitting room is the perfect spot for breakfast whilst watching the city go by. The bedroom's french doors are double glazed, making it very quiet. All the common areas are very clean and tidy as well, and the building has a lift.

Communication with the host was perfect. Antonio confirmed the reservation promptly and was always available to answer any queries by email. In Barcelona we were met by his business partner, Roberto, who was very friendly and professional. He showed us the apartment and explaied how everything worked. Roberto was incredibly kind and accommodating (keeping our cases in his office for a few hours as we had a late flight), and also very punctual!

And last but not least, the location is superb! This area of the Eixample is very smart indeed, yet relaxed and welcoming. It is easy to walk to many points of interest in the city - it is only a 10-15 minutes walk to Plaza Catalunya (where the airport bus stops) - and the area is also well served by public transport. There are both posh boutiques and local shops, including a bakery less than a block away on Rambla de Catalunya and a small convenience store down the pedestrian street. The apartment is only a few minutes walk from Gaudi's Casa Batllo and La Pedrera (great for setting off early to avoid the queues), as well as from Fundacio Tapies and design mecca Vinçon.

I highly recommend this apartment.