Alberto was a fantastic host! He went above and beyond, getting in touch with us via email before our flight to make sure we had correct directions to his apartment, and then also checking in via WhatsApp before we flew so that we knew we would be able to text him upon our arrival. He sent us a thorough email, complete with maps, explaining how to get from Barajas Airport to his apartment via the train, bus or taxi. Because of his directions, we were able to easily navigate Madrid public transport with our suitcases and get to the apartment with no problems at all.

He was waiting for us in his (adorable) Curiosity Shop when we arrived, and he took us up to the apartment, where he had wine and snacks waiting for us. We were famished after our long flight so it was such a nice treat! The apartment is cheerful and sparkling clean, and was exactly the right size for a couple. The location seriously cannot be better -- right in the center of everything, but tucked onto a relatively quiet side street. He has also made sure to stock the kitchen with coffee and tea, and fill the living room with maps, guidebooks and everything else a visitor to Madrid might need.

Alberto shuts off the wi-fi between 2 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. but as we were in bed during those hours, it never bothered us. The rest of the time the signal was fine.

We would definitely recommend this apartment to anyone coming to Madrid. You can't do better!