First, it is an ideal location for visitors to Madrid; especially for first timers. It is central and walking distance to many sites, bars, cafes and restaurants. For example: From the apartment, museo Prado and El Retiro is about 15 minutes East; the world’s oldest restaurant that is still in operation, Sobrino de Botin, is 10 minutes South; both Hemingway hangouts, La Venencia and Cerveceria Alemana, are 8 minutes East; a major shopping district is 3 minutes North; the famous Sunday La Latina flea market is 20 minutes Southwest and do forth. I could easily make a list of 50 places off the top of my head.
Outside the front gate on Calle de Montera are cafes, an express mini grocery mart, tourist center, phone sim shop, police sub station (very safe), a mini red light district near the police station and Plaza del Sol with a flagship Apple store and metro station. The location has everything.
The room is well appointed, very clean and comfortable like a hotel room. For convenience, it is next to the bathroom and front door. The kitchen is central. The hosts are on the far opposite side of the apartment for privacy. The apartment itself is decorated like an artist’s stylish and tidy studio. It is on the fifth floor (sixth floor for Americans) with a convenient elevator.
My hosts were eagerly helpful, thoughtful and gracious. From the moment I arrived, I was genuinely told “Mi casa es su casa.” I was made to feel welcome at all times.
If I absolutely had to include something not so stellar for balance, I would think that the only concern a future guest might have is that it is located on an popular street and at night it can be heard in the room. Importantly, there is no loud music or police sirens, but just laughter and such from the people below. I just put in my earbuds and even with them not playing music it was more than enough to eliminate any sounds. So, it was not an issue for me.
I truly had a wonderful stay with no complaints. Thank you to my hosts for helping make my visit to Madrid so happy, easy and memorable.