Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona

I entered this lovely hotel intending to have a drink at their Banker's Bar. Unfortunately, they informed me about a private event taking place there. No worries, they assured me that I would be welcome at their bar/restaurant called Blanc. However, after waiting at the restaurant check-in desk for five minutes, I was asked if I was staying at the hotel. When I replied no, they suddenly claimed to be overbooked and had no space available, despite many empty tables. After expressing my concerns to the friendly lady at the hotel entrance, they managed to find me a table—but only after I mentioned that I typically stay in five-star hotels and was considering this one for my next stay. I ultimately refused the offer because the overall vibes at this hotel did not feel welcoming. I might come back later this week to check if they have improved.

The check-in experience kind of left a bad taste in my mouth and a bad impression from the get-go. I was asked to return at 2:00 p.m. and the room would be ready. I came back and they told me that it would not be prepared until 3:00. Two minutes past three I got a call saying that my room was ready. Clearly, they are not willing to grant you any extra time  Although I perfectly understand that check is at 3:00, allowing guests to check in a bit early will compensate for the lack of services and amenities. eg tiny pool & gym. There was a gracious supervisor who managed to turn around the sour taste of the check-in experience and wiped out the charge of my breakfast to compensate.  I could not care less about the charge as that was bizz trip and I am not paying for it. However, that was a genuinely nice gesture that came from the heart.  Most of the people care in this hotel, the room is neat and well-appointed.  the overall feel of the hotel is a bit dull and soulless in my opinion.  The room service breakfast was phenomenal.