Luxe Barcelona  
  • Luxe Barcelona

copyright Courtesy of Luxe City Guides

Luxe Barcelona

Luxe City Guides, 2008; $9.99.

The tiny purse/pocket-sized accordion Luxe guides are loads of fun. The foldouts are pared down to the essentials, or rather the essentials of someone who is interested in trendy, higher-end shops and hotels. There is a surprising amount of information on where to eat, stay and play in Barcelona, and even a “Very Useful” page with suggestions for doctors, car (OK, limousine) rentals and pharmacies. A nice touch is that if you register with Luxe you can view updates on the Web site, www.luxecityguides.com.

Pros

I love the witty, succinct writing of these guides. For example, on suggesting the “relaxed” Catalan restaurant El Magatzem del Port, the review reads: “The sun is shining, the boats are bobbing, you’re chilling on the terrace, the wine flows, the food is good and the passing parade looks on in envy.” It’s like poetry for travelers.

Great Tips

Somehow Luxe manages to fit in several differently themed shopping itineraries with loads of details, including directions. You can follow the “antiques/fashion/food/sights” path, the “yoof-ful fashion” advice, or the “beautiful things” itinerary, among others.

Cons

The font size of the text is small, and I mean small, and having it written in all capital letters doesn’t help.

Worth Buying?

Yes, but you’ll want a companion guide for any kind of in-depth history or price list. 

 

Read our review of TimeOut Barcelona.