Casa de Madrid

Casa de Madrid is a marvelous place to stay. It’s difficult to categorize because it is more residence than boutique hotel and yet has more high-end comforts than a bed and breakfast. In the first place, it is located two floors above the street and occupies the entire level. A visitor would not know where it is without good directions. There is a nondescript doorbell which you can see here:

Its very private location is one thing I like about this place. There is no through traffic the way there would be at a big hotel. Therefore, this is the right place if you prefer to be left alone or maybe host a special client on some serious business. For example, there is a main salon with couches and chairs where you could hold that soiree, preferably with a glass or two of wine:

The other side of the room offers more seating as seen here:

Let’s go in for a closer look at that little bar, just in case you’re curious.

Perhaps you enjoy reading, working on your laptop, or doing a bit of writing. Well, there’s another library-type of space as you can see here:

Some guests take their morning tea here, which is served in the following manner:

Quite cozy, isnt’ it? Upon coming through the door, you check in at this desk, which is staffed by a person capable of taking care of the small things you may require while visiting Madrid.

There are more small touches too, like the fruit plate brought to your room in the evening as seen in the next frame.

These small things make you feel at home, welcoming you into a place that may not be your own but frequently feels that way. Casa de Madrid may seem expensive until you consider the convenient location. It is only a few minutes walk to the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Plaza del Sol, and many other attractions in the old part of the Madrid. The Teatro Real is only steps away. I’ve stayed here on five separate trips and would recommend it to anyone looking for something special.

Published in: on May 8, 2010 at 9:53 am  Leave a Comment  
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Mercado San Miguel, Madrid

Mercado San Miguel is located off western end of Madrid’s Plaza Mayor in the old part of the city. The place has been remodeled and updated in the last couple of years. The people of Madrid and visitors alike pile in through these sleek glass doors for the best of every type of food on offer.

Let’s start with the basics. How about some fruits and vegetables like this:

Next would be fresh bread, no? How about like this?

Maybe you prefer fresh seafood such as this:

Has to be something there you like. By the way, don’t forget the cheese. Take your pick from this counter.

Olives and such are one of the basics of every Spanish meal, too. Which one is your favorite? They’re all here.

And while you’re at it, might as well get dessert.

What else? There’s wine, oysters on the half shell, and plenty of other things that simply won’t fit here in a standard post. If you’re ambling about Madrid, in the area of the Plaza Mayor, I would stop in here for a snack or everything you need for a great meal. By the way, there will be a post showing the tapas that can be had. Stay tuned.

Published in: on May 7, 2010 at 1:01 am  Leave a Comment  
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Alarcón, Spain, Fortifications

Alarcón, Spain, features a handsome set of fortifications. The town itself perches atop a tower of rock that rises above a winding river, making it an ideal place to built a castle. Take a look at the long view:

The main tower sits on the left side of the frame above. The watch tower to the right gives a great view into the next valley as wells as intersecting fire should someone have been stupid enough to approach from the area of that reservoir below. Note the walls that form a line about half way up the hill to the town. Panning slightly left, you’ll further see how isolated the town’s position is:

In the foreground left, stands another watch tower that guards the access road leading toward the town’s main gate. The people who fortified this town were serious about their mission. The main fort is now a paradore, welcoming visitors who wish to spend the night and enjoy a nice meal. I didn’t have the opportunity to stay there or dine. Let’s take a look at that building from the other side:

Those rain clouds passed while  I enjoyed a nice lunch. More about the food later. Check out the rainbow on the left. It was a nice touch for the photo. Before leaving, take a closer look at the road and the town’s main gate:

Alarcón isn’t the largest castle you’ll see in Spain. However, it does have all the features you come to expect from Spanish castle builders. Plus, you’re able to get up close to this piece of history.

Published in: on May 6, 2010 at 9:53 am  Leave a Comment  
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Serious Jamón

If you’re serious about your jamón, especially the ibérico, then you’ll have to make a pilgrimage to Spain and visit one of the many shops that specialize in this delicious delicacy. During my recent trip, I found myself wandering about the streets of Madrid, eventually to Cava Baja, where there are a number of fine tapas joints. Lo and behold! There stands Alma de Ibérico at number 41 Cava Baja, the shop you see in the photo below:

While I stood by with my mouth watering, I watched a master carve off the thinest slices for a nice lady. These slices are so thin, they melt in your mouth, releasing all the flavor of a well-cured meat. Now, just in case you want to purchase your jamón intact and do the carving yourself, check out the selection below with yours truly grinning at the possibilities:

Take your pick! It is tempting but not inexpensive. Then again, the good things in life are never cheap. At any rate, if you find yourself in Madrid, on Cava Baja, make a stop here. You won’t be disappointed.

Published in: on May 4, 2010 at 4:22 am  Leave a Comment  
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