The Edelman Family of 7 (parents, young adult children and significant others who gathered from Cleveland, Chicago, and New York) traveled to Madrid last month for a 6-night getaway.  They based themselves in the capital city and took day trips to explore the central region of Spain…much easier than moving around with 7 people and luggage in tow.  The brand new and boutique-style JW Marriott was their Madrid home and is nicely located next to Plaza de Canalejas and close to the Puerto del Sol.  With just 139 rooms and suites, the luxury hotel was previously one of the oldest perfumeries in the city and uses that history in its décor.  They found the service to be very attentive and let us know that the rooms were lovely and comfy.  But the hotel, as expected with any debut, is still working out some kinks here and there.  But overall a nice stay.  A private orientation tour on the family’s first afternoon was a great way to get to know the city’s layout and history.  Our favorite guide, Pepe, uses a tablet to showcase photos, maps, etc. to better understand and digest all of his commentary.  The next day they explored the Royal Palace and Prado Museum on their own with pre-purchased entry tickets.  We didn’t want to overtax them with guided tours, which they appreciated.  The following day Pepe drove the group to Toledo for a full-day tour of the city’s Jewish, Muslim, and Christian history.  They learned so much about the city’s location and how and why these religions converged here.  The next day some of the family went for a run in Retiro Park and then the whole family enjoyed hanging out together in the park afterward.  That afternoon they took a private flamenco lesson.  The teacher’s lack of English and a very hot room due to neighbors’ complaints about noise created both a fun and funny atmosphere.  Later that evening they met back up with Pepe for a wine and tapas tour.  Pepe ensured that all special dietary needs were met!  Another evening they went to an authentic flamenco show and one night indulged in a paella dinner.  Due to scheduling issues, the family spent the last two days on day trips.  The first was a private tour of the walled city of Avila and another day was spent on a somewhat challenging hike through the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park and then a tour of nearby Segovia and its famous aqueduct.  Overall, the Edelmans appreciated that Madrid was a cost-efficient city, offered such a nice variety of dining options, and had such a rich culture and history that peaked all of their interests.