What's New: An Online Update for Frommer's Spain

As Spain -- along with France and the United States -- moves into the forefront of world tourism, here is a roundup of some late-breaking developments.

Barcelona

Freshly remodeled and more inviting than ever, Gallery Hotel, Calle Rosello 249 (tel. 93-415-99-11; www.galleryhotel.com), lies in the upper district of the Eixample, a moderately priced choice gaining more and more fans every month.

Food critics in Barcelona are hailing the Catalán cuisine of Carles Abellan, who holds forth at Comerç 24, Comerç 24, La Ribera (tel. 93-319-21-02). A culinary artist of the first rank, he uses some of the freshest and best of seasonal ingredients to concoct combinations often called "outrageous," but which are a delight to the taste buds.

Costa Del Sol

In the western resort of Estepona, Kempinski Resort Hotel, Carretera de Cádiz, Km 159 (tel. 95-280-95-00; www.kempinski-spain.com), since its opening, has been hailed as one of the most spectacular resorts along this sunny coast. This member of "The Leading Hotels of the World" is set in palm-studded gardens fronting the ocean, and is a monument to La Dolce Vita with its grand comfort.

Madrid

Right across from the Prado, Hotel Mora, Paseo del Prado (tel. 91-420-15-69) is being discovered by art lovers all over the world. A modestly priced choice, it offers bright, tastefully furnished accommodations in one of the best locations in town.

Grand dining is to be had at Santceloni, in the hotel Hespera, Paseo de la Castellana 57 (tel. 91-210-88-40), currently the rage among serious Madrid foodies. Santi Santamaria, ranked as among the top three chefs in Spain, made his fame in a restaurant outside Barcelona but today also dazzles Madrileños with his succulent Mediterranean cuisine.

Majorca

One of the most charming boutique hotels to open in this Balearic island in many a day, Palau Sa Font, Carrer Apuntadores (tel. 97-171-22-77; www.palausafont.com), has been installed in a former 16th-century palace. It's been successfully converted to this somewhat funky hotel with its jelly bean colors. Filled with atmosphere, it's also become one of the hippest hotel addresses in town.

Salamanca

In this ancient university city, AC Palacio de San Esteban, Arroyo de Santonio de Salamanca (tel. 92-326-22-96; www.ac-hotels.com), is a former 17th-century convent that has been successfully converted into a government-rated four-star hotel in the heart of monumental Salamanca. It's been totally restored in a traditional style and furnished with luxuries.

Santiago De Compostela

In this ancient cathedral city in Galicia, more and more visitors are discovering Casa Hotel as Artes, Traversía de Dos Puertas 2 (tel. 98-157-25-90; www.asartes.com). It's an especially rewarding choice for those who can't afford the town's landmark hotel, Hostel de los Reyes Católicos,. Rooms honor various artists -- from Rodin to Dante, from Gaudí to Picasso.

Segovia

El Molino de la Lasa, Bajada de la Losa 12 (tel. 92-021-11-01), is a mill dating from the 15th century that stands near the Adaja River. Today it's been turned into one of the finest restaurants in this highly competitive city. The roast lamb is among the best in Castile.

Seville

In the heart of Seville in the romantic Barrio de Santa Cruz, La Albahaca, Plaza Santa Cruz 12 (tel. 95-422-07-14), has opened to acclaim with its savory blend of Andalusian and Basque cuisine. The house itself was constructed by Juan Talavera, a celebrated architect of his day, and many visiting celebs come to call here and to partake of a first-rate cuisine.

Trujillo

In the walled town of Trujillo, deep in Extremedura, Melía Trujillo, Plaza del Campillo 1 (tel. 92-745-89-00; www.solmelia.com), has opened to acclaim. The Melía hotel chain took a former monastery from the 17th century and restored it and its adjoining cloisters, turning it into a hotel of charm and grace in this hot, arid climate. Its swimming pool is the greatest place to be in the area on an August afternoon.

Valencia

Monte Picayo, Urbanización Monte Picayo (tel. 96-142-01-00), is a luxurious government-rated five-star retreat that has opened 18km (11 miles) north of Valencia. For those who want to enjoy this city of the Levante, but from a landscaped hillside location, this is an idyllic summer resort, each accommodation with a private terrace opening onto a view. Good sandy beaches are within driving distance.