W. Does it stand for ‘Wow’, one wonders? Or perhaps the ‘wink, wink, nudge nudge’ ethos that defines Barceloneta’s newest arrival. Emulating a giant silver knife protruding from the Vella region, W, Barcelona offers the typified cool for which the brand is known, but not without emphasizing its Catalan surroundings too. Clearly, W manages to fuse global and local very, very well.

Entering into the glass and LED lit reception area, textured beanbags, low Philippe Stark side tables and plenty of fashion and lifestyle books are scattered effortlessly to encourage guests’ total assimilation into a dreamy, seabed inspired space. Check in, what check in?

Striking the perfect chord, senses are engaged without being overwhelmed, whilst guests are treated to a service that is deliberately informal, yet still satisfies every five star expectation. Alongside the Wet bar, fusion Wave restaurant and in-house Bliss Spa, the wealth of luxe dining and bar options are all complemented by a young, energised international staff who are playfully referred to as ‘talent’. Demonstrably, it seems W is on a mission to blow all cliches surrounding the traditional hotel stay firmly (and literally) out of the water.From the signature seasonal cocktails, personalised notes left on the bed, alfresco poolside DJ bar and beach-facing cabana beds, the venue triumphs when it comes to providing a lifestyle that goes beyond mere lodgings.

And, with its unbeatable proximity to the Med and 360° vistas from the 26th floor Eclipse bar, W plays upon the ocean like it plays upon everything else. Mischief and voyeurism have never felt so luxurious.