Get a true glimpse of the Spanish way of life

The promise of sun, sea and sangria have attracted hoards of European travellers to Spain’s coastal towns and islands for decades, but for a true glimpse into the Spanish way of life, there is no better destination to visit right now than Madrid, where a cultural renaissance is underway.

Whether travellers are seeking a foodie holiday, a luxury shopping spree, a cultured city trip, or a lively weekend on the town, Preferred Hotels & Resorts presents the ultimate guide to unique, exciting independent hotels in some of Madrid’s most desirable districts.

C’est chic, boutique – Salamanca: This upmarket shopping area is heaven for travellers looking to indulge in retail therapy. The streets of Calle Goya and Calle Serrano and their intersecting roads are home to the flagship stores of Spain’s leading fashion houses such as Manolo Blahnik, Balenciaga, and Adolfo Dominguez, and also present the latest from up-and-coming designers. For a one-stop shop, department store El Corte Ingles is a must.

• Where to stay: Hotel Hesperia Madrid is located on the prestigious Paseo de las Castellana. After hitting the shops, guests can drop off their bags and relax with a cocktail at the hotel’s Scotch Bar before selecting one of three fine dining options, including the acclaimed two Michelin-starred restaurant Santceloni. Rates start from €154 ($168.4) per night per room

For the culture vulture - Barrio de las Letras: When searching for an area rich in art and history, there’s no better option than the bohemian Las Letras neighbourhood. Once home to many of Spain’s greatest writers and poets, Madrid’s ‘Literary Quarter’ is made up of largely pedestrianised cobbled streets and tranquil squares with bookstores and theatres, interspersed with terraced cafés ideal for people watching.

The area is also home to the CaixaForum Museum and a short walk from the famous Prado Museum, the Queen Sofía Art Centre, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum.

• Where to stay: NH Collection Madrid Palacio de Tepa is a contemporary design hotel set in a historic 19th century palace, adjacent to historical landmarks like Santa Ana Plaza and Plaza Mayor. Guests are treated to a view of the city’s ancient canal system - beneath their feet - through the lobby’s unique crystal floor. Rates start from €154 ($168.4) per night per room

Perfect for night owls – Chueca: The life and soul of Madrid and home to the LGBT community, Chueca is the place to enjoy the best of the city when evening falls. The colourful quarter is made up of a maze of narrow streets packed with bars, clubs, concert venues, and eateries serving traditional tapas and international cuisines into the early hours. Travellers should check out the always-buzzing Calle Fuencarral, Calle Hortaleza and Chueca Square.

• Where to stay: Less than three minutes from Chueca Square, Only YOU Hotel & Lounge is a new boutique hotel featuring a bold design and luxurious feel across its 70 uniquely-appointed rooms, suites and public spaces, including an atmospheric British-style cocktail bar and a Mediterranean-style lounge. Rates start from €155 ($169.5) per room per night

Eat like a local – La Castellana: Situated in the city centre, ‘La Castellana’ - or Paseo de la Castellana - is one of Madrid’s longest and widest avenues. Those who enjoy nothing more than sampling local cuisine will be spoilt for choice with many of the city’s famous tapas bars and restaurants, street food markets, and traditional family-owned delicatessens all in close proximity to the tree-lined boulevard.

• Where to stay: Located just steps from Paseo de la Castellana, the recently renovated  NH Collection Madrid Abascal is housed in an embassy building comprising 183 rooms and suites, some with terraces. The hotel’s popular all-day restaurant DOMO Abascal is directed by renowned chef Paco Roncero and serves local favourites and delicious seasonal dishes from across the country. Rates start from 99€ per night per room

Preferred Hotels & Resorts offers three additional hotels in Madrid: NH Collection Madrid Paseo del Prado, Hotel Wellington, and Hotel Claridge.

Travellers can enhance their experience by enrolling in the iPrefer guest loyalty programme, which extends points redeemable for free nights and other expenditures, elite status, and special benefits such as complimentary internet upon every eligible stay at more than 550 participating properties worldwide.

To experience Madrid with Preferred Hotels & Resorts or view the brand’s worldwide portfolio, visit www.PreferredHotels.com. – TradeArabia News Service