My girlfriend and I stayed in Mercedes' beautiful studio apartment for five nights in May 2012. It was absolute PERFECTION. With the hit and miss nature of hotel experiences threatening the enjoyment of our vacation, we decided to forgo the risk and stay with Mercedes.

The other reviews are correct: the space is cozy, so don't expect a palace (though we did note that it feels bigger than the pictures indicate). However the apartment is impeccably clean, charming, convenient to subways, and located in a safe and quiet part of the city away from the annoying tourist-y areas (for those familiar with New York City, think an Upper West Side-ish vibe). The well-equipped kitchenette was also ideal for our style of vacation -- we made light breakfast in every morning, and kept snacks for the afternoons and evenings, too.

Mercedes' home is in an elegant elevator building with secure access and a very up-scale feel. Returning to the apartment at the end of the day really felt like coming home rather than checking back in to a nondescript hotel room. The host herself is gracious and sweet, as well.

We would recommend Mercedes' apartment to friends, family and anyone else visiting Madrid. As long as her accommodation is available, we will always look there first when visiting!