The apartment actually exceeded our expectations. The living room has large, sunny doors opening to a balcony overlooking Diagonal Avenue. Although the street is a busy one, the bedrooms, which are in the back part of the apartment, are quiet. The area is upscale and not in the touristy area, we felt safe, and there were many nice stores and restaurants nearby. About a half mile away, on Carrer Balmes, is a tobacco shop (Estanc Duaso?) with a walk-in humidor that sells Cuban cigars, for those wanting to take them back to friends in the states.
The apartment management responded promptly to our inquiries and everything went smoothly.
This was a great place from which to see a great city.