"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?Towering over Plaza de España is the new VP Plaza España Design, a high-rise with a glossy façade and enviable views. Passersby peer into the streetfront restaurant (which has a beautiful vertical garden) and lobby with great interest—if you look high enough, you can catch guests mingling, cocktails in-hand, up on the rooftop pool area. What's the backstory?The building was gutted to produce an high-design, art-filled space—now the flagship of VP, a Spanish hotel chain. There are plenty of eye-catching pieces in the public areas, none so captivating as the courtyard water sculpture, the handiwork of Catalan designer Pere Gifre. Tell us about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?The guest rooms live on the higher floors of this mixed-use building, and even the rooms that face away from the square have lovely views of rooftops and the city skyline. The design style is decidedly contemporary; think hardwood floors, Scandi touches, velvet armchairs, well-placed power outlets, L’Occitane toiletries. There are nine types of rooms; even the Standard (the smallest) feels cool and trendy. Superior rooms add balconies or even treadmills. The largest suite, the Presidential, has dual views of the Royal Palace and the square. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?WiFi is fast and free. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Gingko Sky Bar is immensely popular—arrive early to beat the line. The adjoining restaurant, which serves Mediterranean and Asian dishes, spills onto the building’s signature wraparound terrace. And the service?The staff does a fine job of handling special requests; in particular, the breakfast staff hustles to keep the tables clean and the espresso fresh. Take a look at what the female staffers wear: modern, frilly interpretations of flamenco couture. What type of travelers will you find here?The hotel does a large conference business, but it's not without a sense of style. Business travelers mingle with tourists; at breakfast, there are just as many laptops as there are unfurled maps. What about the neighborhood?This hotel sits on one of Gran Vía’s primary intersections, making it a magnet for foot and vehicular traffic. A walk in either direction leads to shops, restaurants, and theaters. Head another way, and you’ll find Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. On the other side, you'll find the trendy enclaves of Malasaña and Chueca. Is there anything you'd change?The spa is small and has street views. And there's a small gym, but we'd love to see it stocked with bottled water. Any other hotel features worth noting?Plenty of Madrid hotels have rooftop pools, but none seems to be as high in this one. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?Come for the rooftop and guest room views, plus the hotel's centrality to the main tourist and business hub in Madrid. The Metro station right at the entrance can get you anywhere in half an hour." - Ramsey Qubein
