Regarding cheaper lodgings, you might consider
Hostal Aresol , JUST off the Puerta del Sol. I spent one night there, liked it just fine, and it's gotten plenty of good reviews too. It's also very near the popular
Palacio Gaviria &
Joy Eslava discos.
Right on the Puerta del Sol is the lesser-expensive (similar to
Hotel Plaza Mayor ) but equally popular is the
Hotel Europa . I've heard it described as "Funky" but not in a bad way - I don't think. hehehee.. Some friends of mine stayed there a few nights and they liked it just fine.
Regarding English-language "What's On" publications would include "In Madrid" but there aren't many of these kinds of publications available in English.
Good luck and have a GREAT time! Saludos, MadridMan
_________________________
Visit BarcelonaMan.com for Barcelona information, Transportation, Lodging, & much MUCH more!
Curious about what could POSSIBLY be inside the brain of MadridMan? Visit
MadridMan's Madrid Blog