Barcelona's Hidden Gem: Be Mate Paseo de Gracia - Unbelievable Stays!
Be Mate Paseo de Gracia: Barcelona's Hidden Gem? Let's See! (Brace Yourselves)
Okay, so I'm officially back from Barcelona, and my brain is still half-stuck in a Gaudi-esque dreamscape. But, the mission? Review Be Mate Paseo de Gracia. "Unbelievable Stays!" they shout. Let's find out if that's hype or the real deal. And honestly? This is gonna be a long one, because I've got opinions.
First Impressions & Accessibility (Getting There is Half the Battle…Right?)
Finding the place? Easy peasy. Right on Passeig de Gràcia – seriously, you can't miss it. Surrounded by all the fancy shops and, you know, architectural masterpieces. Car park [on-site], blessedly. Because honestly, finding parking in Barcelona is akin to finding a unicorn. They do have a car park [free of charge], which is excellent. (I, being me, didn't utilize either - taxi, all the way)
Accessibility-wise? They claim to be good. Elevator is a must. I didn't check every single detail, but the main areas seemed pretty manageable. They boast Facilities for disabled guests, which is a good sign, but I'd recommend calling ahead and clarifying specifics if you require it.
My Room: The Good, The Slightly Less Good, The… Well, It Was There!
I had a superior room. Air conditioning? Check. Air conditioning in public area? Double check (because Spanish heat is brutal!). Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! YES! Finally! They weren't kidding. The internet was fast and consistent. I hate hotel Wi-Fi that dies on you. Internet Access – Wireless - check. Internet access – LAN - check and check! (I'm old school, sometimes I want a cord!)
The room itself was… nice. Clean. Modern. Not overly large, but perfectly adequate. Desk was decent - perfect for those moments when you pretend to work. Laptop workspace was also available. The bed? Comfy enough, with a extra long bed. The blackout curtains were a lifesaver. Seriously, the Spanish sun is relentless. They had slippers and bathrobes, a nice touch. And a safe box for… well, your passport and the small fortune in euros you inevitably spend.
Now, the slightly less good? The window that opens, yes, but the view? Not exactly breathtaking. More like "urban landscape." But hey, I wasn't there to stare at the view.
The bathroom? Clean, modern, and functional. Separate shower/bathtub. Hair dryer that actually worked. Toiletries – adequate. Though, I never trust hotel shampoo. Lesson learned years ago. Always bring your own. Oh, and they had a mirror, a scale and some toiletries, including towels.
The Sanitization Situation: Safety First! (And It's a Bit… Much?)
Look, I get it. These are weird times. Be Mate takes the safety seriously. I saw a lot of Hand sanitizer around. Daily disinfection in common areas. Rooms sanitized between stays. Anti-viral cleaning products. They even offer Room sanitization opt-out available. I, personally, felt a little like I was living in a sterile lab, but hey, better safe than sorry. It felt like they were doing a professional-grade sanitizing services. They must have had sterilizing equipment. I would say they had a Hygiene certification.
Dining, Glorious Dining (And My Stomach's Reaction)
Okay, let’s talk food. I’ll be honest, I'm a sucker for a good hotel breakfast. Breakfast [buffet] was the standard European spread. Western breakfast was available but they did have an Asian breakfast, too. Coffee? Decent, but not life-changing. Coffee/tea in restaurant was my go-to every morning. Asian cuisine in restaurant? Didn't dabble.
Breakfast in room was an option, which is fantastic for the lazy traveler (that would be me!).
I had a couple of dinners there at the restaurants. The service? Impeccable. The food? Generally pretty good. Maybe a little over-priced. The A la carte in restaurant offered everything. I really enjoyed the salad in restaurant. They provide a bottle of water.
But… and this is a big but… the atmosphere in the bar and restaurants felt a little… sterile. Not quite fun. A bit… posh. I'm used to a bit more buzz when I'm out and about. They do have a Poolside bar, which I did NOT use.
They do have a Snack bar but I didn't go. There's also Room service [24-hour], which is tempting, especially after a long day of tapas-ing.
Things to Do (Or, My Attempt to Be a Culture Vulture)
So, Be Mate isn't a destination in itself. It’s more of a springboard. Right on Passeig de Gràcia, so you're basically in the middle of everything. Walking distance from Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), and many more of Gaudi's masterpieces.
They have a Fitness center to work off the tapas, or you can visit the Spa/sauna.
Relaxation: (Or My Impressing-The-Staff Moments)
Alright, relax time! I was in dire need of a break. Be Mate has a Spa. The Steamroom was inviting, and the Sauna, hot. Seriously, I wanted to spend the whole afternoon inside.
No Body scrub or Body wrap for me but they do massage which I didn't try.
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
They had everything you'd expect. Concierge service was brilliant. Seriously, they saved me a couple of times! Luggage storage - check. Dry cleaning and laundry service - also check, because I can’t pack light, even if my life depended on it. Cash withdrawal. Currency exchange. Doorman.
Cashless payment service was useful! The safe deposit boxes were also appreciated.
For the more business-minded, there's Business facilities, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, Projector/LED display, Seminars, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center, but I didn't see any, which is a good thing for me!
For the Kids (Because Someone Has To Think About Them!)
I didn't have kids with me! But they seem to be Family/child friendly with Babysitting service.
Getting Around: The Airport Shuffle
They offer an Airport transfer, which I would recommend. The taxi situation can get… hairy.
My Verdict: Worth the Hype? (Maybe…with Caveats)
So, "Unbelievable Stays!"? That’s a bold claim. Be Mate Paseo de Gracia is good. Solid. Well-located. Comfortable. Extremely clean (perhaps too clean).
But "unbelievable"? It’s not quite the most mind-blowing hotel experience I've ever had.
Here’s my breakdown:
Pros:
- Location, location, location! Seriously, you’re in the heart of it all.
- Impeccable Service: The staff were wonderful, helpful, and genuinely friendly.
- Cleanliness: Spotless. You could eat off the floors (though, I wouldn't).
- Free Wi-Fi: Rejoice!
- Accessibility: Generally good if you're in need of it. Call ahead to confirm.
Cons:
- Atmosphere: A little lacking in personality. Could use a touch more "Barcelona flair."
- Price: A bit on the pricier side.
- Dining (Subjectively): It all went a bit sterile at times.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes, absolutely. Especially if you're looking for a comfortable, well-located, and safe base for exploring Barcelona. Just don't go expecting a wild, crazy, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It's more like a very polished, very efficient, and very safe stay in a fantastic city.
The Offer I'd Create (To Persuade You!)
Tired of Generic Hotels? Crave the Real Barcelona? Then DUMP YOUR EXISTING RESERVATION and Book Be Mate Paseo de Gracia!
Here's What You Get:
- Prime Location: Right on Passeig de Gràcia, steps from Gaudi (and amazing shopping!)
- Spotless Rooms: Clean, comfortable, and with fantastic Wi-Fi! (Seriously, it's important.)
- Stress-Free Travel: Airport Transfers Available!
**But Wait, There's More! (because I'm
Peterborough Waterfront Getaway: Luxury & Comfort Awaits at Holiday Inn!
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because this itinerary is less "polished travel brochure" and more "my brain exploded onto a page after drinking too much sangria." We're going to Be Mate Paseo de Gracia in Barcelona, Spain. And trust me, it’s a rollercoaster.
BARCELONA: A MESSY, GLORIOUS AFFAIR
Day 0: The Arrival (aka, the "Where's my luggage?" Situation)
- Time: Basically, whenever the plane decides to deign to land (and not lose my suitcase, fingers crossed).
- Transportation: Uh, a plane. Specifically, one that probably thinks it's hilarious to make you miss your connection. (Side note: why are layovers always so short?! It's a conspiracy!)
- Destination: El Prat Airport, Barcelona (BCN). Then, a frantic taxi ride to Be Mate Paseo de Gracia.
- Mood: Anxious, excited, and desperately hoping my checked bag didn't go on a romantic getaway to, like, Iceland.
- Anecdote: Last time I flew, I packed a whole suitcase of emergency snacks. Turns out, the airline also brought emergency snacks: a sad, stale sandwich. This time, I'm prepared. I have an emergency stash of chorizo and olives in my carry-on. Judge me.
- Quirky Observation: The airport baggage carousel is a modern-day purgatory, where hopes and dreams (and perfectly packed toiletries) go to die.
Day 1: Gaudí's Grand Gestures… and My Own Tiny Blunders
- Morning (9:00 AM): Finally! Unpacked (mostly). Showered (thank god). Chugged a coffee strong enough to wake the dead. Time to conquer Barcelona, starting with Park Güell.
- Transportation: The metro, Baby. Viva el metro! (Translation: "May the metro gods be ever in my favor and not let me get lost!")
- Destination: Park Güell. The whole place is basically a Willy Wonka factory of fantastical architecture. Seriously, Gaudí was a genius, but also, like, a bit… extra.
- Mood: Pure awe mixed with mild vertigo. Those staircases are relentless!
- Anecdote: I, being the elegant traveler I am, managed to trip over a particularly photogenic tile in Park Güell. Graceful as a newborn giraffe. Don't worry, the tourists got a good laugh in.
- Quirky Observation: The sheer number of Instagram influencers vying for the perfect shot is almost as impressive as the architecture itself. (Pro-tip: go early. The influencers sleep in).
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Tapas time! Found a little place near Park Güell. Jamón, patatas bravas, pan con tomate… I'm pretty sure I could live off this stuff.
- Transportation: Walked. (Slightly wobbly after the sangria, it must be said).
- Destination: Unknown local tapas bar.
- Mood: Blissful, possibly a little tipsy.
- Anecdote: Tried to order in Spanish. Utterly butchered the pronunciation. The waiter just smiled kindly. Bless their hearts.
- Quirky Observation: The Spanish really know how to enjoy their food. Conversations are passionate, plates are overflowing, and everything is just… alive.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Sagrada Familia. Okay, seriously, prepare yourself. It’s not just a church; it's a mind-blowing, jaw-dropping, spiritual experience. Even I, a cynical, practical person, was converted.
- Transportation: More metro, less wobbling.
- Destination: Sagrada Familia. Pre-booked tickets (a MUST. Trust me.).
- Mood: Awe. Utter, speechless awe.
- Anecdote: Spent an embarrassing amount of time just staring at the stained glass, completely forgetting my phone. I can still see the sunlight streaming through the windows.
- Quirky Observation: The details! Gaudí's dedication to every single aspect is almost overwhelming. It's like one giant, beautiful puzzle.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Gothic Quarter exploration. Get lost. It's an order. And don't use Google Maps. just wander.
- Transportation: Feet, feet, feet.
- Destination: The Gothic Quarter.
- Mood: Adventurous, a little hungry again.
- Anecdote: Found a tiny, tucked-away plaza with a fountain and sat there, just absorbing the atmosphere. Pure magic. Until a pigeon pooped on my shoulder. Back to reality.
- Quirky Observation: The narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter are a masterclass in urban design. How people live in these tiny spaces is beyond me. (And I hope my luggage is still in the room).
- Dinner (8:00 PM): Paella in the Gothic Quarter. Okay, maybe I'll use Google Maps this time.
- Transportation: Uhh.
- Destination: Somewhere with paella. Recommendations welcome.
- Mood: Hungry, anticipating deliciousness.
- Anecdote: I hope that the dish is just as good as the pictures. I’m ready to eat anything.
- Quirky Observation: Food photos are crucial, especially around here.
Day 2: Beach Vibes & Beachy Blunders
- Morning (9:00 AM): Beach time! Barcelona's Barceloneta beach. Sun, sand, sea… and the endless quest for the perfect beach spot.
- Transportation: Metro to Barceloneta.
- Destination: Barceloneta Beach.
- Mood: Relaxed, happy, and slightly worried about sunburn.
- Anecdote: Applied SPF 50. Twice. Just in case. I'm pale enough to glow in the dark.
- Quirky Observation: The beach vendors selling everything from massage oils to fried snacks are a constant, amusing presence. "Mister, do you need a watch?"
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Beachside Chiringuito. Found a little place serving fresh seafood.
- Transportation: Walked.
- Destination: A crowded Chiringuito
- Mood: Extremely Happy
- Anecdote: The calamari was so good I ate half of it before I took a picture.
- Quirky Observation: Watching the other tourists get way too sunburned
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Explore the city.
- Transportation: Walk, walk, walk.
- Destination: Unknown
- Mood: Tired, and maybe a little bit lost.
- Anecdote: It’s so hard to find the way around here, it is difficult
- Quirky Observation: How is everything so different than home?
- Evening (6:00 PM): Shopping. Let the credit cards burn!
- Transportation: Feet.
- Destination: Shopping.
- Mood: Excited, and a little concerned about my bank balance.
- Anecdote: Picked up a scarf I didn’t need.
- Quirky Observation: This is going to be expensive.
- Dinner (8:00 PM): Found a little place and ate the local food.
- Transportation: Taxi
- Destination: Tapas bar
- Mood: Hunger and anticipation.
- Anecdote: The tapas were amazing.
- Quirky Observation: Spaniards know their food.
Day 3: Farewell, Barcelona (and the lingering smell of tapas)
- Morning (9:00 AM): One last morning in Barcelona. Strolling through the beautiful streets.
- Transportation: Feet.
- Destination: Be Mate Paseo de Gracia.
- Mood: Sad to leave.
- Anecdote: Remembering all the details.
- Quirky Observation: Everything is so different here.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Tapas.
- Transportation: Feet.
- Destination: Unknown.
- Mood: Empty.
- Anecdote: I could do anything but I have to leave.
- Quirky Observation: The tapas are so good.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Saying goodbye.
- Transportation: Taxi to the airport.
- Destination: BCN Airport.
- Mood: Disappointed and sad.
- Anecdote: So many pictures.
- Quirky Observation: This is so sad.
- Evening (6:00 PM): Goodbye Barcelona.
- Transportation: Plane.
- Destination: Home.
- Mood: Everything.
- Anecdote: So much
Oh. My. Gaudí! (And Everything Else You Need to Know About Be Mate Paseo de Gracia... Because I've Been THERE)
Okay, spill. Is this Be Mate Paseo de Gracia REALLY as "unbelievable" as the ads say? (Because, let's be honest, marketing is a LIAR sometimes.)
Alright, buckle up. Unbelievable? Look, it's not *quite* a unicorn riding a rainbow through a croissant factory. But... it's damn close. Seriously. The building itself? Jaw-dropping. You're talking about PRIME Paseo de Gracia. Forget stumbling out of your hotel and into a sweaty tapas bar – you’re basically falling out the door and onto Antoni Gaudí's *masterpieces*. La Pedrera is practically waving at you. And yes, the apartments are gorgeous. Think sleek, modern, with enough character to keep things interesting. My first thought? "Whoa. I could *actually* live here... and become a stylish Euro-nomad." (Spoiler alert: that dream died after about two days of laundry.)
What's the deal with the "apartments" thing? Is it like, a hotel, or a rental? I'm confused.
That's the beauty AND the potential snag, right? Be Mate is kinda a hybrid. Think fancy apartment rental, but with some hotel-esque perks. You get a full kitchen (life-saver for late-night cheese cravings, trust me), a washing machine (THANK GOODNESS), and usually a decent amount of space. BUT! You need to be cool with some minimal interaction. Don't expect a concierge to hand-feed you churros in the morning. It's more self-sufficient. Which, honestly, I loved. Freedom! But if you're the demanding type who needs your hand held… maybe consider a traditional hotel. Just sayin’.
Okay, kitchens. Real talk. Are they actually *usable* kitchens? Or just a pretty face?
Okay, this is where I can get passionate. Yes! Usable! I'm talking full-sized fridge, potentially a dishwasher (score!), and often a hob and oven. I even made *paella* in mine! (Don't ask about the state of the kitchen after... let's just say I'm not a chef). They usually provide the basics – pots, pans, plates, cutlery. But…check the fine print! Sometimes the basics are *very* basic. No fancy coffee machines in my experience - French press, baby! So pack your own grounds if you're a caffeine fiend like me. And a bottle opener. Trust. Me.
Speaking of "basics," what's the Wi-Fi like? Because Instagram demands perfection.
The Wi-Fi? It *generally* works. But, let's be honest, I'm a digital nomad, and my life revolves around connectivity. I needed to post my perfect sunset pic from the Sagrada Familia. And sometimes, the Wi-Fi decided to take a siesta. Which, you know, is a *thing* in Spain. It's not always super speedy. If you're planning on streaming 4K movies or video conferencing constantly, maybe consider investing in a portable hotspot. But for basic browsing, checking emails, and posting that Insta pic? You should be good. Probably.
Location, location, location! How's the area *really*? Is it tourist-trap hell or the actual real Barcelona?
Paseo de Gracia? Oh honey, you're in the thick of it. But in the *best* way. Touristy? Yes. Overwhelmingly so, at times. BUT. Look up! Look at the architecture! Take a deep breath and remember you’re in one of the most stunning cities in the world. You're a stone's throw from *everything*: the best shops (Zara! Mango! Oh, my wallet…), delicious restaurants (tapas, tapas everywhere!), and of course, those Gaudí masterpieces. You're connected to the metro so you can *easily* escape the tourist hordes when you need to. It's a brilliant base for exploring Barcelona. Just be prepared for crowds, especially in peak season. Prepare for it. It's a necessary evil.
What about cleaning and service? Like, do they change the sheets? Do I have to scrub the bathroom?
Alright, this varies. Some apartments offer daily cleaning, some only offer it on request (and for an extra fee). *Definitely* check the booking details. When *I* was there, I think it was once a week. This is where the "apartment" part shines through. You're responsible for keeping the place relatively tidy. You'll get fresh towels and sheets periodically. Don't expect housekeeping to appear out of thin air. Embrace the feeling of *slightly* being a local… and try not to spill too much wine on the pristine white sofas. I tried. I failed. Repeatedly. (Red wine in Spain is… potent.)
Any hidden fees or sneaky surprises I should watch out for? The devil is in the details!
Ugh. Hidden fees. The bane of my existence. *Always* read the fine print! Seriously. Sometimes there's a city tax or a refundable security deposit. Make sure you understand the cancellation policy. (Life happens, plans change, especially after one too many sangrias.) And be mindful of the check-in/check-out times. They're often pretty strict. I remember trying to sneak an extra hour in the apartment, and, well, let's just say I was *not* successful. (And they *will* charge you extra!) Also, be ready for the "key pick-up" procedure. It's not always as straightforward as a hotel keycard. Double-check the instructions and make sure you have all the necessary codes and information *before* you arrive. I *almost* got locked out at midnight after a delicious, and lengthy, tapas crawl. Stressful.
Okay, spill the tea. What was your *absolute* favorite thing about staying there? And what was the actual worst?
Okay, let's get into it. The best thing? Waking up, throwing open the window, and being *visually assaulted* by gorgeous architecture. The location is just unbeatable; it's pure Barcelona magic. Seriously, it’s worth the price alone. Walking distance to everything! That feeling of having my own little stylish haven in the heart of the city was pretty cool.. (Even though I was always slightly terrified of making a mess.)
The worst? Hmm... the occasional Wi-Fi drama. And the feeling that occasionally, during the week, I was living someone else's dream, and I would need to go back to the real world. Okay, maybe the check-in process was a little convoluted. And the cleaning policy was... well, it was *okay*, but you definitely feel the shift from hotel to apartment.
And now, the real, actual worst… theYour Stay Hub
