Having suffered through bankruptcy, dictatorship and starving citizens, Madrid has emerged into the 21st century with panache and a confidence to move forward. It is a place that brims over with culture, architectural delights and the chance to sample delicious local food.
It is no wonder that tourists flock here in their millions every year, and flights from all over the world make use of the international airport with four terminals and all the hotels Madrid has. Now the city shows off an elegance with designer boutiques and a diversity with all its must-see sights and open spaces.
It was with great embarrassment that King Alfonso XIII declared that the hotels Madrid had were not up to scratch when he was getting married in 1906. He felt there was no one hotel Madrid possessed that was elegant enough to put up his guests.
But he did not just complain - Alfonso actually set about making sure the hotels Madrid had were up to standard by overseeing the construction of the Ritz and Palace, still regarded as two of the best hotels in Europe.
Many of the hotels Madrid has now are not quite in that league but the abundance of hotels Madrid has hold it in good stead for the high season when the city is overwhelmed with visitors. For comfortable lodgings, pleasant hotels in converted town houses, and business hotels Madrid is well catered for.
Some of the more quirkier hotels Madrid has include one in a converted convent, another with a roof top swimming pool, and a third that used to be brothel. Imagine staying in one of those hotels Madrid has to add that extra special something to your holiday!
Every city has its own quirks and ways of doing things so as a visitor, it is great to have a heads up on certain things before travelling and settling down in your chosen hotel Madrid has. When visiting popular museums, arrive 20 minutes before the official opening time to avoid the horrendous queues that can form early on.
Try to avoid the red light district if possible which is north of Gran Via, even during the day, as it can house unsavoury characters. The same is true of many parks at night so stick to well lit areas. Staff at many of the hotels Madrid has can advise you on the particular areas to avoid.
Generally though, Madrid is a safe city though being the largest city in Spain does mean it can have its problems like any other capital, for example pickpockets are rife on the underground.
During August and on public holidays, many of the bars, restaurants and shops will be closed as this is when Spaniards take their summer holidays. However most of the tourist sights will still be open, just check at your hotel.
For budget hotels Madrid cannot be beaten and this is the same with flights from Budgetair Australia. Book a seat on a Budgetair Australia flight and you will not be disappointed.