HOTEL URBAN, Madrid

In a city with as much history as Madrid, it is no mean feat to make a splash on the architectural and entertainment scenes, more so, in as big a manner as the Hotel Urban has.

Not many hotels can boast a museum filled with Egyptian antiques dating back to the 12th century BC, not to mention Asian and African artwork displayed throughout the hotel. From the Papua New Guinean totems in the lobby to the Hindu statuettes attending each guestroom entrance, Hotel Urban is an art experience nonpareil. The Art Deco exterior alone sets Hotel Urban apart from its surroundings, situated as it is between the Puerta del Sol and the museum district. The portico at the hotel's entrance, dramatically shaded by a spiral steel canopy, sets the stage for the imaginative interior.

Inside, stainless steel girders and glass lifts, delineating the six-storey high atrium, impart an industrial feel, while a 'golden chimney' (actually a staircase) ascends from the basement museum to the rooftop terrace. In contrast, a backlit alabaster column runs the full height of the building, complementing the skylight's natural illumination.

The air of elegant modernity is also infused within the guestrooms. Dark wood furniture, leather fittings, carefully calibrated mood lighting and the very latest in technological conveniences come together to create the hotel's signature look of contemporary chic.

The various rooms and suites reflect unique designs and characteristics. To distinguish them further, every room has its own showpiece of ancient Asian art, complete with curatorial notes. The hotel is also well equipped for the modern traveller. Each room has wireless Internet access-a testament to Hotel Urban's commitment to anticipating and fulfilling its guests' requirements.

Hotel Urban has been included in the 'Top 100 Southern Europe Hotels' in the well-known survey drawn up each year by the leading international travel magazine Conde Nast Traveller. Hotel Urban has secured this prestigious place on account of several factors, including cuisine, location, design, room types and service. This combination is a winning formula and will no doubt see Hotel Urban graced with similar awards in the near future.