FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

NH Constanza

by Gtrav

Sep 1, 2008
2008

Arrival/Check-in: Opened in February 2007, this slick business hotel in Barcelona’s business district is somewhat distant from the best parts of the city, but equally distant from the noise and exhaust fumes. Nearby shopping is noteworthy, but food options outside the hotel are dismal. The hotel was rather quiet during my stay, so I usually had the undivided attention of the desk staff whenever I wandered up with a question, including during check-in, which was swift and friendly. (29/30)

Guest Quarters: Designed partly by world-renowned architect Rafael Moneo, the rooms are modern and all hard angles, wood and mirrored surfaces. Superior rooms have a view of a small park, ringed by inexpensive lunch spots popular among business people, as well as separate baths and showers, coffee facilities, and free use of the spa. Beds are decent and equipped with giant lounge pillows for propping yourself up while you watch the flat, wide-screen TV. Bathrooms have average toiletries, good towels and plenty of mirrors. Hint: Though they aren’t automatically provided, guests in standard rooms can request one of the hotel’s plush, baby-blue robes. WiFi is provided by two third-party ISPs — Swisscom and Telefonica — and is not inexpensive. Though doors are heavy and windows thick, screaming children and loud TVs in other rooms were easily discernable. And when those heavy doors slammed, windows shook three rooms away. (23/30)

Services/Amenities: The hotel has two restaurants, including Nhube, designed by Michelin star chef Ferrán Adriá, serving Mediterranean cuisine in a space that’s equal parts restaurant, lounge and bar. The modest Elysium-run spa offers standard treatments. The rooftop pool is fronted by sun beds. The meeting facilities are massive and modern, with modular-walled meeting halls, breakout rooms, party terrace and catering.

The hotel has an arrangement with a nearby Europolis for fitness facilities. The complimentary buffet breakfast is a dizzying mix of fruit, pastries, cereal, hot and cold meats, cheeses, breads, juices, sweets and even mimosas if you’re so inclined. A small, two-PC kiosk with printer passes for a business center. The hotel provides the services of a personal shopper/fashion consultant in case you require translation/style support. (37/40)

The Experience: The 308-room hotel is designed like a skyscraper on its side. It’s nice to look at on the outside, but long hallways inside lack aesthetic appeal. The multi-national desk staff wield varying degrees of practical knowledge of the city, but all are unfailingly nice and helpful. Although I enjoyed myself immensely while on the property, getting anywhere involved tackling a new form of public transport or forking over the fare for a slow taxi ride through Barcelona’s traffic-heavy streets.

Total Score: (89/100)

NH Constanza

Calle Deu i Mata, 69-99
08029 Barcelona, Spain
tel 34 93 281 1500
http://nh-hotels.com

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
Mar 17, 2025

UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages in 2024

From Caviahue-Copahue in Argentina to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Vietnam, travelers can now discover the 55 newest Best Tourism Villages of 2024 as researched by UN Tourism. These are not overcrowded, mass-tourism villages, but instead very rural destinations that have consolidated their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development.

A Summer Sojourn Along Europe’s Rivers with AmaWaterways

This summer, elevate your vacation experience with award-winning AmaWaterways. Offering a seamless blend of unparalleled luxury, authentic cultural experiences and unrivaled service, AmaWaterways cruises are the perfect way to uncover the heart of Europe during the sunniest season with itineraries that glide along the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Douro.

March 2025
Mar 17, 2025

Buenos Aires Embraces Life with Art, Music, Sports and Fine Food

The fascinating city of Buenos Aires has managed to maintain its appeal for travelers despite Argentina’s roller coaster economic history.

Daily
Mar 17, 2025

Welcome the Arrival of Tulip Season in Amsterdam with Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

Every spring, Amsterdam’s parks and fields erupt into an array of colors with the arrival of tulip season. To help travelers have the ultimate experience, Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam offers three curated experiences celebrating the iconic flower through historical insights, natural immersion and gourmet food.

Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach

Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.

Slideshow
Mar 17, 2025

6 Reasons to Put Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Your Travel List

It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Santa Fe, New Mexico, with us.

Daily
Mar 13, 2025

Sedona, Arizona, Hotel Promises Perfect Nature-Centric Stay

Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at L’Auberge de Sedona. This luxury property in Sedona, Arizona, invites travelers to reconnect with nature through its accommodations and outdoor experiences.

Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City

They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.

Daily
Mar 13, 2025

Ancient Baths Brand Opens Second Location in New York City

AIRE Ancient Baths officially opened the doors of its second New York City location March 1, bringing even more wellness to New Yorkers and visitors. Following the success of its location in Tribeca, AIRE New York Upper East Side debuts, blending ancient traditions from Roman, Greek and Ottoman civilizations.