Staying Cool combines the luxe of a trendy small hotel (bathrobes, fluffy white towels, fancy toiletries) and the independence of an apartment. Located in the arty neighborhood of El Raval, this one-bedroom is a tasteful blend of original features and modern style: Huguet tiles and bow beams in the living room and bedroom; poured concrete in the kitchen and bathroom. Strengths: The apartment comes with Wi-Fi, DVD player, iPod speakers, and a fridge stocked with juicing oranges. Weaknesses: Shabby entrance; no elevator (44-1618-32-4060; stayingcool.com; $218–$278 per night, with a two-night minimum).

The creation of an ex–art curator and graphic designer, Destination BCN rents out artfully decorated apartments. The best values are the sleek designer lofts near the Plaça Universitat ($195–$269) and the quieter hideaways off the beaten path in Poble Sec ($155). Strengths: All have fully equipped kitchens and multimedia bells and whistles. Weaknesses: Traffic noise in the apartments on the Plaça Universitat (34-6-87-91-45-66; destinationbcn.com; apartments, $155–$350 per night, with a four-night minimum).

Dining
Taller de Tapas packs in local workers with its excellent-value lunches. By night, the ancient stone walls buzz with the chatter of the lively crowd who come to savor regional specialties such as pimientos de padrén (green peppers that occasionally pack a fiery punch) and Spanish soul food like rib-sticking callos, or tripe stew (28 Calle Comtal; 34-9-34-81-62-33; tapas, $4–$16). Inopia, a brightly lit neighborhood bar co-owned by Albert Adria (pastry chef at the legendary El Bulli), specializes in traditional tapas featuring top-notch ingredients, including local anchovies and gooey sheep's cheese. Most of the patrons stand, but there's a sit-down area for those who book in advance. Evenings only (104 Calle Tamarit; 34-9-34-24-52-31; tapas, $3–$15). Rising star chef Josep Nicolau presides over Rosal 34, hidden in seldom-visited Poble Sec. The menu has a seasonal repertoire of dishes such as steamed cockles with passion fruit and razor clams with vanilla and lime oil (34 Calle Roser; 34-9-33-24-90-46; tapas, $5–$24).
–Tara Stevens

LONDON

Hotels
Behind its traditional Georgian facade, B&B Belgravia is a sleek oasis of contemporary calm: white walls, walnut floors, funky furniture, and unexpectedly luxurious bedrooms. Room rates include free Internet access, cappuccino (from a proper espresso machine), breakfast, and magazines. Strengths: Chic and homey surroundings; laid-back but helpful staff. Weaknesses: No air-conditioning (44-20-7259-8570; bb-belgravia.com; doubles, $223).