Where were you born?

India.

Where do you live?

Madrid.

If money was no object, where would you live?

Anyone that knows me knows that I’m a gipsy at heart. Madrid is the twelfth city I’ve lived in during my adult life so it’s very hard for me to pick one city where I’d like to settle. I love São Paolo for its people, Madrid for its weather, Paris for its flair, New York for its shopping and London for its mix of bohemian and sophisticated lifestyles.

Which are your favourite neighbourhoods in Madrid?

Justicia and Las Salesas because I can spend an entire day getting lost within the maze of side streets and discovering all sorts of interesting shops and boutiques. I also love the bohemian feel of Malasaña.

Which are your favourite Madrid stores?

My favourite clothing stores in Madrid at the moment are Nac, Yube and Benny Room, all in the Justicia area. And one of my favourite stores for beautiful ethnic Moroccan and Afghan handicrafts is Berberia on Calle Redondilla. They have the most beautiful objects at incredible prices.

And your favourite restaurants?

I love Krachai for good, authentic Thai food in the Alonso Martínez area and La Sudestada in Chamberí for the best fusion food. My new favourite is Ten con Ten in Barrio de Salamanca.

Can you recommend any local dishes?

I guess it would have to be paella.

Do you have a favourite local café or bar?

Válgame Dios on Calle Augusto Figueroa, which curiously also runs a designer outlet store from its premises!

Where do you take out-of-town friends?

Mercado San Miguel in the evening for its buzz – it attracts a great mix of shoppers, visitors and the after-work crowd.

Where do you like to celebrate?

Probably in the comfort of my own home. We have a beautiful house with a big roomy living room that’s perfect for both big parties and small cosy evenings with friends.

Do you have a favourite walk in Madrid?

Although I love the Casa de Campo park, I’m still a city girl at heart and love to walk down streets like Calle Serrano and Fernando VI.

How do you like to travel around the city?

Madrid is a beautiful city for walking but I have to admit I use my car more than I’d like to.

What’s the best city landmark?

The Metropolis building on Calle de Alcalá at the corner of Gran Vía.

Which do you think is the best museum in Madrid?

The Reina Sofía, not only for its art but also for its impressive architecture and wide open spaces.

Can you reveal any secret spots?

Olivia te Cuida on Calle Santa Teresa. It has the best organic food and I especially love the small, cosy space inside.

Where are the best bargains to be found in Madrid?

It would have to be the Rastro flea market with its unending deals on vintage items, cool second-hand clothing and little knick-knacks. If you go there on a Sunday, be sure to get there early. Later in the day, the crowds can get a little unnerving!

Any advice for visitors to Madrid?

Bring comfy shoes to walk the city during the day and dancing shoes for the wild nightlife.

Can you recommend any good hotels?

I love the ME hotel in Plaza Santa Ana for the incredible view from its rooftop bar and its great location.

What can’t you live without?

My amazing family.

Tell us a secret.

I’ve recently been running a design course for girls and it’s turning out to be a great success. I suspect that this may be something I grow a lot more in the future!

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Mila & Tara