I have a reservation at the Hotel Carlos V in Madrid, which it seems has gotten consistently good reviews on this forum. But recently a friend of a friend from Barcelona suggested the Hotel Monaco. It is somewhat cheaper and this friend of a friend advised that it has a bit more character. Any comments from someone who knows the Hotel Monaco?

I just got back from Madrid and i stayed in the Hotel santo Domingo which is near the Carlos V in the vicinity of the Gran Via. The hotel was very nice and modern, each room is decorated differently and although they can be a bit small they have good bathrooms, closets, desks, etc. the also offer a great morning buffet breakfast which include meats, cheese, pastries, fruits, etc. The rates are only slightly higher that at the Carlos V. Although the Carlos V comes highly rcommended, I cancelled my reservation atr the last minute in favor of the Santo Domingo. I am glad I did. The Carlos V is located right in the middle of a major pedestrian shopping zone. Seem liked staying at the mall!. I am sure it is a nice hotel but i perferred the quieter location that the Santo Domingo offered. <BR> <BR>As far as the Monaco, I believe this is located in the Chueca District. Even though the Chueca is interesting place to take a walk, I found it a bit dark and depressing. A bit "grey" and a little off the beaten path. <BR> <BR>So, I recommend either the Carlos V or the Santo Domingo. I got the best rate for the santo Domingo by booking thru Best Western. They gave me a rate which included taxes and breakfast. There are a lot of other inexpensive hotels around the city, so if you have any questions, let me know. <BR> <BR>http://www.hotelsantodomingo.com/ <BR> <BR>I also had a few great meals and experiences and would be glad to offer suggestions. Madrid is an intersesting city and take a bit getting use to, but once you get use to it you will have alot of fun. If you would like I can offer some other advise too! Email me if you have any questions! <BR> <BR>

Hotel Monaco is an old whore house where the king of Spain's grandfather would frequent. It has really fantastic bordelesque rooms. It is located in the heart of Cueca which is the heart of the Spanish and Madrid gay night-life - good clubs and bars that never close. It is far more fun than the other stodgy run of the mill hotels recommended to you. It also is central - only 10 minute walk to Plaza Mayor, the Prado, Sol etc. - remember Madrid is a compact city.

Cool Peter - just what I was looking for. I'll be checking into reservations today. <BR>Thanks for the suggestions all.

We just stayed at the Hotel Monaco, based on recommendations and reviews of the interesting decor. Whatever that place used to be, it's now a dive. We met several other guests who were appalled at the condition of the rooms (water damaged ceilings and walls, lack of heat, dirty linens, no hot water, leaky plumbing, etc.). It seems that they use a few rooms for show, to lure in unsuspecting tourists. We saw two decent ones on the first floor (the ones in picutures of reviews by Fodors and travel guides. In every other area, the rooms were nothing short of a disaster. Part of the third floor was under construction, and rooms on either side were still being leased. Avoid this place at all costs!!