Any opinions out there regarding people, culture and actual city of Madrid? <BR> <BR>Thanks you.

The Prado is simply stunning, but there was little else in Madrid (OK, the museo de Jamón, maybe) that appealed to me at all on my one trip there. I love Sevilla, Granada, Toledo, Cordoba, but I thought Madrid was unattractive, noisy, and quite dirty in places. We witnessed two minor crimes in our first three days there, one of which we atually got involved in (helping the manager of a souvenir shop to restrain a man who had just shoplifted a fairly large knife until the police came), and perhaps that colored my experience, but until I have a chance to re-evaluate, that's my opinion.

I thought Madrid was wonderful. I especially remember the Plaza Major and the free tapas (snacks) with every drink you order at the pubs. We used the bus system to get around but ended up getting lost a couple of times. Oh, well, that adds to the fun right. Learn a bit of Spanish and the locals will warm right up to you.

Do not miss the Reina Sofia museum of modern art or the Thyssen-Bornemisza if you go. The Thyssen is particularly nice. Beautiful collection. Madrid is an interesting town, old and modern, very busy. Be a good Fodorite and take ordinary precautions about petty theft, because it is definitely there. The train station has an interesting indoor garden you might miss if you travel exclusively by flying. <BR> <BR>You might check out Madrid Man's guide to Madrid (madridman.com) for some clever observations and info, if it is still there. <BR> <BR>Again, Madrid is a very important city and quite interesting. Have some basic Spanish language skills if you can. Also, try and not miss Toledo. Close to Madrid. Stunning city, not to be missed. Best part of my trip.

What is the situation with crime there? What about the ETA? Is it a threat?