Almudaina Hotel

A small refuge from the commercial bustle outside, the Almudania is a central, stylish property in Palma. Although the property is elegant, the vibe is laid-back. Guests are greeted in a tiny lobby with neutral, sand-hued decor, but the best lounging area is on the rooftop terrace, complete with Astroturf and lounge chairs. The surrounding streets and plazas ooze traditional Mallorcan character, and a room with a view over the flags and colorful awnings of the famed Jaime III street provides hours of people-watching. 

The Almudania Hotel is located on the famed Jaime III, which is known as one of the most exclusive streets in Palma. The street is always lively with street musicians, bustling cafe terraces, and a panoply of shops ranging from Spanish chains such as Mango and Desigual, to more upscale outlets such as Louis Vuitton. Smack in the heart of the city, it's a two-minute walk away from the equally chic Born area, the Cort Plaza, and the Seu Cathedral. Buses to Palma Airport take about 15 minutes.

Rooms at the Almudania are modern, crisp, and mostly white. Regardless of room category, they are all outfitted with furniture with wooden accents, a few modern floral paintings, simple, but tasteful headboards, flat-screen TVs, and light parquet floors throughout. True to the style of the rooms, the bathrooms are equally contemporary, albeit plain. Each has a spacious glass shower with chrome fixtures, and they're stocked with embroidered towels. While there is the option to book a Sea View Room (which is really just of the Bay of Mallorca), those overlooking Jaime III are just as nice (and certainly better for people-watching).

As a small hotel, the Almudania doesn't offer a full range of amenities, though what features it does have are splendidly executed. Decked out with astroturf, white wicker furniture, and sleek lounge chairs, the Solarium has truly spectacular views over the rooftops of Palma, and out over the bay and the majestic Seu Cathedral. The Sky Lounge, also on the top floor, is a posh bar area with cream leather sofas, equally excellent views, and a small outdoor terrace. The property has two basic meeting rooms that accommodate a maximum of 57 people, making them best suited to smaller reunions. There is also a small business center with two computers and a printer, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.