"The Reina Sofía’s (52 Santa Isabel; 34/91-774-1000; museoreinasofia.es) new Jean Nouvel building is beautiful! And kids love the Calder sculpture in the middle of the big courtyard. The museum stays open until 9:00, so you can make a night of it."
"Vinçon (18 Castelló; 34/91-578-0520) is my favorite place to browse, and my kids love it too. It’s a design store that sells all kinds of things, including toys—like the Museum of Modern Art Store, only looser and more exciting."
"Pastelería Embassy (12 Paseo de la Castellana; 34/91-576-4877), around the corner from my store, is a classic spot where chic people go for a merienda, our version of afternoon tea. Try horchata—it’s a milky drink made from tigernuts that dates back to ancient times. I wish I could say I like it!"
"Caramelos Paco (55 Toledo, 34/91-365-4258) has floor-to-ceiling lollies, suckers, and caramels. And when your cheeks are stuffed, check out Fiestas Paco (52 Toledo, 34/91-365-2760), a carnival shop across the street, that sells noisemakers, costumes, and fright wigs."
"Madrid Xanadú (Km 23.5, Autovía A-5; 34/91-103-6000; millsmadridxanadu.com) is a big mall with a big surprise—an indoor ski slope where you can actually strap on skis and go! We’ve shown my winter fashions here."
"Chocolatería San Ginés (5 Pasadizo San Ginés; 34/91-365-6546) is famous for its hot chocolate and churros—and coffee served in chocolate cups."
Copyright © 2008, American Express Publishing. All rights reserved.