We never got the chance to meet the host Antonio. His instructions from the airport to his home were vague at best. We have been traveling Europe for over a month now and thankfully we were adjusted in how to get around. We finally arrived to his apartment after an uphill walk if about 1/2 mile through trashy streets. We were met by his cousin who proceeded to be pissed off that we were an hour late. Thankfully my girlfriend was able to calm her down by speaking Spanish. We then took the trek of narrow stairs to the top floor. No need for stairmaster in the gym after that. The scenery up the stairs was sad. Sewer pipes and clothes lines and arguing neighbors filled the atrium. The hosts cousin proceeded to tell us how we aren't in a good part of town and to watch our stuff carefully! The apartment is an uncomfortable hole. Shower stays hot for less than three minutes. Bed is extremely uncomfortable. Toilet seat is broke and pinches you every time you sit down. Thank god we found better parts of Madrid and enjoyed every minute of it except in the going to, coming from and staying at this place. We were approached by a prostitute at one point and saw bloody feminine hygiene products just outside our door along with a condom on one of our exits from the house. Needless to say, I will be coming back to the city of Madrid, but will NOT be staying in this hole. My girlfriend is tough as nails and was scared to death the entire time.