Fodor's Expert Review H1898

Originally home to the Tobacos General Company of the Philippines (TGCP) and dating to 1890, the hotel actually takes it name from the last year of Spanish colonial rule in 1898. Despite its complicated historical implications, H1898 pays homage to its Philippine roots with stunning full-size portraits of the island nation throughout the building. Other touches from the past can also be seen – most especially in the spa – with original brick arches that used to be a coal bunker and is now a stunning relaxation oasis. Warm and cozy with a distinctly masculine vibe, this central spot is ideal for history buffs who want to be in the middle of the city.

Every Wednesday, the hotel hosts a unique walking tour of the Gothic Quarter. It’s free, so don’t miss out.

room

Rooms generally abandon any Philippine themes as they’re decorated simply with clean hardwood floors, striped headboards, lots of wood accents, and leather ottomans. Smart TVs are mounted on the walls and all come with Bluetooth speakers, and pillow menus. The suites are where the hotel really shines though as they have insane terraces with large private pools, sunbeds, and epic views.

bathroom

Black or green marble is standard across the hotel bathrooms where you’ll also find shower/tub combos in every room as well as double vanities. Etro bath products are super nice.

lobby

The expansive lobby harkens back to Spain’s colonial past with zigzag brick floors, navy carpeting, deep leather sofas, and black & white day beds. The masculine-feeling space also has a 24-hour business center with computer terminals, along with work desks.

From 5-7pm every day, the hotel hosts a complimentary tea time in the lobby with tea, coffee, and pastries for all guests.

pool

For hotel guests only, the rooftop pool has endless views and is just a small part of a giant rooftop terrace. Gray loungers along with red, white, and black daybeds surround the space that is ideal for long summer days in the sun.

In the summer the hotel hosts DJ sessions and live music nights on the rooftop. Ask the hotel ahead of time for a complete schedule of events.

spa

Simply stunning, the basement spa feels like entering a different time period with red brick arches, a spacious hammam, and sauna and steam rooms. Open from 8am-9pm, there are also two cabins offering massages, wraps, skin treatments, and facials.

gym

Close to the spa is the gym with tile floors, free weights, and TechnoGym machines with internet connections so you can get Instagram inspired while pumping iron.

dining

El Nido is the main restaurant which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves Mediterranean cuisine. The robust buffet has separate tables for fruit, cheese, pastries, meats, and cakes.

drinking

Named after a Philippine island, La Isabella is the rooftop terrace open from noon to 12:30 am and serves tapas, classic cocktails, and perfect views of the Barcelona Cathedral. The lobby bar is more a classic space with brown leather high tops and chairs and an impressive liquor collection.