For my first trip to Madrid, I honestly could say that I could not have chosen a better place to stay than Raul's apartment. It was the ideal location, in Malasana, in an area known to locals as Triball -- a vibrant, fun, diverse, hip, trendy, neighborhood that is filled with gourmet shops, chic clothing stores, tapa joints, bars (yes there are gin bars!), hot restaurants, and markets that are open until late at night! Eating was not a problem, controlling it was!

Raul was the perfect host. Friendly, gracious, accommodating, informed, well-mannered, kind, and quick to respond to all manner of questions! We were in constant communication through e-mails and WhatsApp (it helps if you install it). He helped me with my bag and checked me in at 11pm! He went over and beyond what a host could do. And I really appreciated that.

The apartment is what was described. Well-designed, spacious, well-equipped for cooking (although I doubt you'll be doing that), very clean, with fast WiFi, heating, awesome shower, and a comfortable bed. I could not have asked for more.

And the location, perfect! Gran Via/ Puerta del Sol was but 15/20 away on foot. So was Callao. Chueca and Mercado de San Anton was 15/20 away too. If you're more adventurous, Plaza Santa Ana/ Cortes/ Huertas as well as La Latina were 30 minutes away.

Now let me tell you about the food! Breakfast can be had at Greek + Shop -- their croissants were absolute bliss! They also have wraps, sandwiches, salads. Should you prefer to sit down, head over to Merimee (yes, named after the French poet) or go to Calle Fernando VI and have it at Mama Framboise or Pomme et Sucre.
For the traditional bocatillo del jamon iberico, go to Sol and get it at Viandas de Salamanca. Lunch and dinner I had at Mercado de San Anton and Mercado de San Miguel. Tapas galore! Go! You will not regret it. Pair with Mahou beer or any other drink you'd like.

I also went to Txirimiri in La Latina (absolutely divine foie gras on a potato crisp! And do order the Secreto Iberico), Restaurante Laboratorio in Cortes -- their salad with an egg on top as well as their tagliatelli with meat were yummy! And if you can manage to get a reservation, do try Bar Galleta on Corredera Baja de San Pablo ( a chic happening place) that got mentioned in Travel + Leisure last month.

Do not leave Madrid without going to the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. They are all world-class.

The metro in Madrid is fast, efficient, safe, and clean. And at 1.50 per ride, relatively inexpensive.

I had the best week in Madrid! All these I owe to my super host, Raul Montes! Muchas gracias! Hasta Otra!

And I will go back! Soon!