Hotel Front Maritim

We are a group of 21 people who have just returned from a 3 night break to Barcelona.
I chose the Maritim after some research on the internet as I wanted to be in the city but also have good access to the beach; this was booked for us by the great travel counsellors.
The hotel was a great choice. Hardly any British and mainly catering for business. Situated in the upcoming area of diagonal mar, all rooms are modern and clean.
There is a small bar and breakfast room which is typical continental. Reception staff are friendly. There is a small gym and a mixed sauna and steam room.
Rooms can be hot, I complained to reception about our air conditioning and the next day it was fixed.
There is a large shopping centre to your left 10 minutes walk away, typical shops, supermarkets and eateries.
The beach is a 10 minute walk across the road, very clean with a couple of bars. Watch out though for the nude sunbathers, it’s a bit of a shock as they don’t seem to care.
A few tips though, 2 of our group did get mugged, stealing cash; the bags thankfully were found passports intact. Like any major city you will get crime just be sensible.
* Don’t use the Metro - use the taxis or great tourist buses.
* Despite what tourist sites say do not carry your passport, leave it in the hotel safe.
* Eat in the Olympic port, great choice and value
* Buy a 2 day tourist bus ticket, great value and will take you round all the sites.
* Be prepared to queue, but stand your ground, we found lots of Spanish, French and Germans trying to push in front of us!
Barcelona is a great city, we didn’t see enough in the 3 days we were there.