Rafael and his family were great hosts and very welcoming. His sister was waiting for us as we stepped out of the taxi and we felt we could contact them at any time, which we didn't need to. (Although Rafael helped us arrange a taxi to the airport when we failed to do so)! The apartment was clean and everything was there as described. The neighbourhood is very vibrant (a bit noisy at night) but then it is a city and due to the heat, the people tend to stay out late. It's very close to the metro and just a few stops from the beach. We loved walking in the early morning to Passeig de Gracia, Sagrada Familia before the other tourists were out and about and so Gaudi's buildings and all the other wonderful architecture were within relatively easy reach. As a family we had a great time- beach for the kids and culture for the adults on alternate days.