This was a truly great experience. First, the host, Antonio, met us with the keys and was most friendly, gracious and informative. He took whatever time was required to be absolutely certain that we understood the apartment and neighborhood and that we were completely satisfied with the apartment.
The apartment is lovely. It is large and brightly lit, thanks to two large windows that overlook a back courtyard from the 3rd floor. There is no view, just other apartments, but that is not to be taken as a negative. It certainly assured a quiet night of sleep. All of the amenities you would need are there (kitchen appliances, iron and ironing board, dishes, pots, pans, cutlery, etc), Everything worked and was in like new condition. The bathroom is all tile, modern and well appointed, with a great shower. There is a very large flat screen TV with a very comfortable sofa for lounging across. The overall impression of the apartment is that it is stylish and comfortable. Security is excellent, with 3 doors requiring keys to access. The apartment door has an ominous 4-bolt security lock. The apartment is two floors up with elevator access.
The neighborhood could not be more perfect. If you arrive by train you are only only two short metro stops away and the apartment is just up the block from there. Within a block there is a market, a great bakery and other shops. It’s a 5-minute walk to Plaza del Sol where you can pick up the double decker tour bus as well as mingle with tons of people, shops and attractions. You’re also a 5-minute walk in another direction to Plaza Mayor and, next door, an indoor marketplace that will blow your mind. If you are a walker, you are a half-hour or less away from the Royal Palace, City Centre, and the Cathedral. There’s abundant dining and drinking within a two to three block radius, no matter which direction you choose to walk. We could not have asked for anything more.