The Bar/Lounge at Hotel El Palace Barcelona

"On a slimmer budget? At least experience the quintessential British afternoon tea, served daily 4–7:30 (reservations essential) in the Bar 19/Nineteen"

"Beneath an enormous chandelier and columns of black marble, two mirror-image staircases wind their way up to the central lounge, filled with the leather banquettes, antique furniture and elaborate drapes of another age"

"Updated in-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, minibars, DVD players, and free Wi-Fi"

"Dine on Catalan cuisine at Michelin-starred Caelis Restaurant or international dishes at AE Restaurant (designed like a Parisian brasserie), and then head to the hotel's Rien de Rien bar for a drink and jazz"

"The traditional-style piano lounge resides under a glamorous stained-glass ceiling"