After a quick two-hour flight from Manchester to Malaga’s airport and using my choppy duo-lingo’d Spanish during a private taxi ride, I arrived at the Kimpton Los Monteros in Marbella, IHG Hotels’ latest addition to its hotel portfolio in Spain. The building has an Old Hollywood cinematic feel; it’s more intimate than sprawling, with bright Barcelona-inspired interiors, multiple pools and chic spots to enjoy a cocktail or two. I was struck by the hotel’s warmth — it is luxurious, yes, but also airy, inviting, and friendly. It’s situated a stone’s throw from Marbella’s beaches, but also well catered to inside. We made use of the gym, padel courts, rooftop infinity pool and were pampered lavishly in the Spa by Maison CODAGE, yet I quickly learned that where there is peace, there is also a party in Marbella.