My Advice on Madrid

I've got a lot to write about Tango from where I am (Venice, Italy) but for now, some notes on Madrid. This is a from an email to a friend who will be traveling there soon:

Madrid: Was there for four years, living. Madrid is a pretty open book. Definitely check out some of the less-nice barrios, like Lavapies. You're probably more likely to be pick-pocketed in the MOST touristy places, so it's fine. Also, try to get an idea of the local food: try to get an idea of what people eat at a normal place at a "menu del dia." In Madrid, relax into the mad schedule: don't bother waking up early, or take a siesta to bridge to the night. That will let you check out the nightlife, which is not as age restricted as in the US, and not as alcohol focused.