Madrid is buzzing with activity this week, from luxury hotel renovations to heated legal disputes and a push for new legislation. Let's dive into the latest happenings in the Spanish capital.
A New Era for Madrid's Palace Hotel
The iconic Palace hotel in Madrid has unveiled its stunning transformation after a 22-month, 90-million-euro renovation. Formerly operating under the Westin brand, the hotel has now joined The Luxury Collection, marking a significant shift for the establishment. The renovation has revitalized the historic building, blending classic elegance with modern amenities. Expect opulent interiors, state-of-the-art facilities, and unparalleled service. It's a reinvention of a classic landmark, ready to welcome a new generation of discerning travelers.
Clash Over Voting Rights at Cepyme
A fierce battle is brewing within Cepyme, the Spanish Confederation of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, over the elimination of the delegated vote. Former Constitutional Council president María Emilia Casas is advocating for the change, but faces strong opposition from CEOE (Spanish Confederation of Business Organizations) and key employers' associations. The Madrid and Metal employers' associations have launched a counterattack with a legal report from EY, arguing that the modification of the organization's regulation is invalid. The situation is further complicated by the fact that supporters of Cuerva failed to approve the minutes of the meeting in which the change was communicated. It's a high-stakes power struggle that could reshape the future of Cepyme.
Notaries Advocate for "Assistance Pacts"
The Madrid Notary Association is calling for significant reforms in succession and donation taxes, capital gains, and urban lease law. Their goal? To encourage the formation of "assistance pacts" – mutual help agreements among people who live together without being related by family ties. These pacts aim to provide legal and financial security for cohabiting individuals who may not have the same rights and protections as married couples or family members.
"These changes are essential to reflect the evolving social landscape and provide adequate support for diverse living arrangements," says a spokesperson for the Madrid Notary Association.The proposed changes could have a major impact on inheritance laws and urban leasing practices in Madrid and beyond.
A Taste of Sweden in Salamanca: Vikingbox Arrives
Madrid's culinary scene just got a Scandinavian twist! Adolfo Monserrat, an architect turned entrepreneur, has opened Vikingbox in the upscale Salamanca district. This unique eatery offers a taste of Sweden with its focus on smoked sausages (lamb, pork, beef, wild boar…), artisanal bread, and sauces that are imported weekly from Sweden. It's a bold move that's already attracting attention from foodies across the city. "I wanted to bring a bit of my favorite Scandinavian flavors to Madrid," says Monserrat. "And what better way to do that than with delicious sausages?" Whether you're a sausage aficionado or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, Vikingbox is worth a visit.
From luxury accommodations to legal wrangling and international cuisine, Madrid continues to be a dynamic and ever-evolving city. Stay tuned for more updates on these and other developing stories.