Barcelona Hotel Features Built-in Nightlife

Do you look for five-star coolness and built-in nightlife in a hotel? Spanish chain Sol Melia might have your solution.

In 2006, the company launched ME by Melia, a boutique division designed to take on Starwood Hotels & Resorts'(HOT Quote) W line. After launching properties in Mexico and Madrid, Spain, the company beat Starwood by opening a hotel in Barcelona last year. Starwood plans to open a W Hotel there in October.

ME by Melia in Barcelona features a pool deck that turns into a nightclub when the dark descends.

What to expect: The 31-floor hotel is in Barcelona's Poblenou neighborhood, a transitional area that can leave a first-time visitor feeling isolated from restaurants and nightlife. The location is ideal for beach lovers looking to indulge in the city's redeveloped seaside communities. The hotel is also close to the biking and jogging path along Diagonal Avenue as well as Jean Nouvel's Agbar Tower, a cucumber-shape high-rise that visually defines this up-and-coming district.

First impressions: A costly cab ride from the airport passes Barceloneta, Olympic Port and Gothic neighborhoods where many might prefer to stay. A teak deck runs the length of the hotel. The lobby feels like a W Hotel but more minimalist with concrete floors and a sleek lobby lounge with a white-glass bar.

Finding your room: I booked a Loft Suite on the 23rd floor for 300 euros a night, or $413. Inside a heavy steel door, I found an open-plan lounge and bedroom featuring city views. The fee covers entry to the Level Lounge on the 25th floor, where one can find endless bottles of wine and Champagne.

The hotel has been offering its more basic rooms at a promotional rate of 150 euros, or $207.