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Review 1341: ApartInMadrid, Censol-3

www.apartinmadrid.com

Recommended. Review by Simone from US

1bed/1bath apartment in the center, Madrid

When

March 2005, 3 days

Location

This apartment was right in the middle of the Sol area, also close to Huertas and about a 10 minute walk down Calle de las Huertas to the Prado. The location was truly amazing.

Nearby Amenities

There was lots of little "corner stores" nearby but we did not see a major supermarket, although since we didn't really go looking for one there could have been one nearby. You couldn't walk five feet without running into a bar or a restaurant ... that is the nature of this neighborhood, which we loved.

The House/Apartment

The building was freshly renovated, and when I say that I think ours was the only flat completed, as there was construction going on in at least one other flat and I saw no lights in other apartments at night. I also think we were among the first (if not the first) to stay there. As far as peaceful and quiet, not really, but if you're renting a flat in Sol you can't really expect peace and quiet. Madrilenos party all night and many of them do it in Sol. This is the flat you want if you want a short walking distance home at the end of a long night :)

Garden

There was no outside sitting area, although there were two small balconies. We used the balconies for hanging laundry, as did our neighbors ( you will find that few homes have dryers ).

Furnishings/Cleanliness/Living Areas

The apartment was spotless and fairly comfortable, although a bit small for four people. There was room for four around the dining room table, but it would definitely be cozy. Also beware of the dining room table because any rubbing of the chairs against it leaves a mark which needs to be cleaned.

Bedrooms/Bathrooms

In the bedroom there were two twin beds that could be pushed together for a couple and were very comfortable. It was a pretty small bedroom though. There was a closet, a four drawer dresser and the beds. There was a small balcony off of the bedroom. In the other room, there were two foldout twin beds which doubled as a sofa during the day. We had a couple there one night and the remaining two nights just one person used it. She reported that when a couple used the twin beds pushed together, it was not too comfortable but that she was fine when she was using just one of the beds.

The bathroom was lovely, with beautiful fixtures and a nicely sized shower with truly awesome water pressure. Two people can fit into the bathroom, although not three. There were only towels for two people, but we didn't press this point with the agency so just mention it when you book. Very little hot water so take short showers.

Kitchen

The kitchen was in great shape, all of the appliances (as everything in the apartment) were brand new and the latest models. There was a halogen stove and enough pots and pans to cook a full meal. I confess I can't remember the dishes situation clearly but I think that there were enough for four or five.

Problems or Bonuses

Bonuses: Location, location, location!! This is a perfect apartment to walk to basically anywhere in the Madrid center. There is an abundance of restaurants and bars nearby.

Problems: In order to access the apartment, you have to walk into a hallway and then to an outdoor courtyard with stairs, where it's only one flight. The problem was that there were no lights either in the hallway or in the courtyard, so you had to sort of stumble about in the dark until you got your bearings. Since the building is in the process of being renovated, I am sure that this is a temporary problem but you may want to check with the agency.

There is also very little hot water in this apartment, so take short showers.

Agency and Representatives (and price)

The agency was great via email and our representative Alvaro Ibanez met us promptly when we arrived. He spoke excellent English.

I thought that the price was very reasonable, 330 euro for three people during a three night stay in Madrid during Santa Semana, when most places were booked solid. And again I can't say enough about the location.

Do you recommend this vacation rental to others?

I would definitely stay here again. There were a few kinks as in the lack of light in the outside courtyard and hot water issues, but as we were the first to stay in the flat ... and probably even in the building, as it is in the process of being renovated ... I think that these issues will work themselves out over time. Sr. Ibanez of ApartinMadrid was an excellent representative and is very prompt about getting back to you in a timely manner.

This is a great flat for 2 or 3 young people who are looking to have a good time in Madrid, but make no mistake, this is not a party space, as it is kept in impeccable condition by ApartinMadrid who has clearly invested a lot of time and effort in this flat.

Things to do in this area

Everything!! The Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museums are about 10 minutes walk, the Puerta del Sol is about 1 minute away by foot, the Plaza Mayor about 5 to 7 minutes away.

As far as restaurants go, just turn around and point and you will find a great restaurant or bar. El Corte Ingles (department store) is about 5 minutes walk across Puerta del Sol. There are lots of souvenir shops nearby, a famous pastry shop and candy store, and countless cafes.

This review is the opinion of a Slow Travel member and not of slowtrav.com.

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