Madrid knows very well that it is a capital city. It is proudly traditional yet wildly fashion-conscious (though it fashions may be strictly its own) and exudes an overall air of affluence. Here, people dress to the nines just to nip out to the shops, low self-esteem is as rare as a rainy day, and there is an insistence on having a good time: madrileños consider the nightlife of Rome or Paris dull in comparison to their own. Life here is lived to the hilt.

To most Spaniards, having a good time is not a treat, it's a right. Their capital is noisy, vibrant and packed with life. It is a place where, so long as decorum is observed, people tend to do as they please. Ride your motorbike down the pavement? Leave the dog out to bark all night? Careen through the streets at 4 AM with the car stereo at top volume? People are unlikely to complain. They're a tolerant lot, and an unrepentant touch of anarchy prevails. Madrid is underestimated by those who have not been there and is discreet with its secrets.

The Insight FlexiMap of Madrid is a great travel addition. Here is an innovative laminated folding map that marries durability and convenience with accuracy, utility, and readability.

Produced with state-of-the-art technology, FlexiMaps feature detailed city street and road maps clearly marked with all the sites and services of particular interest to travelers.

Text and photographs offer a wealth of valuable tourist information including "10 sights you shouldn't miss," plus information on transportation, visas, currency, important telephone numbers, emergency services, and more.

Price: $7.95