Sergio is a great host and the studio apartment is close to everything. Near Atocha train station where you can find the airport bus and many train connections. Old Town and many tourist destinations are near by. The Metro and taxis are a block away. I found great gifts and deals in Lavapies. Arab, Hindu, African, Tapas Bars and other multicultural restaurants are within walking distance. Luckily the studio has A/C because when I was in Madrid it was extremely hot. Only drawback is that you have to go up the stairs to the 4th floor.
Sergio and I connected immediately and went to out to dinner at the Hindu restaurant and watch the soccer match.