This place is close to everything, and you really experience a local life in Madrid! Honest feedback on cons & pros.
Cons:
- The bar across the street goes late into the night/morning. Even with earplugs the conversations at 2-3 am were still very audible. The neighbors were also consistently loud. If you are a light sleeper, I would reconsider.
- The apt has heating, which is wonderful, however the host sets it at 18C, only for pre-set hours, and neither temperature or hours can be changed. If you usually run cold, I would reconsider.
- Mathilde unfortunately came across as abrasive in communication with guests. My husband surprised me in Spain for my birthday, and I did not have an opportunity to inform her right away as I do not have an international plan, and did not have internet/wifi access yet. When her assistant informed her that three people were at the flat, she sent a message to guests that felt as unkind and accusatory. While we rented the airbnb at the price offered on the website, she stated "I accepted it because I felt it was not really nice to refuse as you are students etc" She also said "So please don't make me regret my choice." It is certainly difficult to gauge tone in writing and there is the factor of cultural differences, but the message came across as abrasive. After an apologetic and explanatory response further communication was improved.
PROS:
- Close to everything, including multiple metro stops (La Latina, Lavapies, Embajadores, etc)
- Cheap and delicious local food literally right downstairs
- Accessible, 24 hr market nearby
- Pleasant (small) balconies in living room and every bedroom.
- Elevator!
- 2 sets of keys (one per room)