This is a wonderfully located apartment, in the very heart of Madrid; lively, full of good, busy restaurants, bars, sidewalk cafes, musical venues and shops -- one of Madrid's most inviting neighbourhoods (I owned an apartment and lived close by for years), very convenient to the busy Gran Via and many tourist attractions and good public transport. The apartment itself is rather disappointing despite its location and its very modern, well-designed and well-equipped kitchen area and bathroom. It is much smaller than I expected with a crowded bedroom (alcoba) and furniture I found less comfortable than I'd hoped. The staircase connecting ground-floor entrance hall, bathroom and the rest of the apartment (first floor)I found (aged 75) narrow and extremely uncomfortable to negotiate -- it had no handrail except for a small bar at the top step to help me pull my way up. On the positive side, Mariano's neighbour, Beth, who looks after the apartment and keys, was extremely helpful, welcoming and supportive. Beth deserves much credit for her cheerful and energetic friendliness and willingness to help me. I would recommend this venue only for young and fairly athletic people willing to "climb" an extraordinary and challenging staircase.