Just back from Madrid

[Jan]

Friend and I are now back from our 3 day trip to Madrid. Had a great time. Weather was fantastic - warmer than here. Hostel location couldn´t have been better, just steps from Plaza Mayor - loads of bars and all the shops. El Ritiro park on Sunday is a must see - full of families enjoying the sunshine and the entertainment. Ards and I strolled all the way around then sat on the grass watching the people dancing on the bandstand and listening to the music.

Ryanair flights went without a hitch, and we saw several passengers with handbags as well as their hand luggage go through without a problem - we didn´t risk it though. Bargain at only €20 return from Alicante!

Metro from the airport to centre was easy to negotiate and cheap, bit of a walk though.

Only negative comments is the prices in Madrid. Has to be expected in a City, but nearly €8 for 2 glasses of orange juice - not fresh at that - is a bit of an eye opener. €2.50 for a cup of tea Makes me more appreciative of how spoilt we are here. Had a glass of wine and coffee last night in Torrevieja bar - total cost just €2.20

[Matthew]

Hello Jan,

You've made me feel nostalgic for Madrid. It is a stunning place, isn't it? You're a bit of a expert on Madrid now, aren't you? You went there on a language exchange, didn't you, or was that a long time ago?

The one thing I really want to see in Madrid is the Picasso painting 'Guernica' in the Queen Sofia Art Gallery. Have you seen it? I have a small copy of it at home, given to me by a very good friend in Bilbao many years ago. I promised myself at the time that I would get to see the original, by it just hasn't happened yet.

You made me laugh with your 'eye-opener' comment. This is what we call the strong coffee that you have first thing in the morning! Those prices are a bit steep, aren't they, but if you will hang out in the five-star hotels...

Matt

[Jan]

Hi Matt,

I didn´t get to go to the Prada again. Rhoda wasn´t keen so I didn´t want to push. I´ll make sure I go next time though. I had a suggested itinery planned, but we didn´t follow it and just chilled out really. We got chatted up by three Spanish men on our first evening out, (don´t tell Don) It was harmless and whilst they got to practise their English with Rhoda, I got to practise my Spanish.

It was about three years ago when I went for a meet up there with some forum members. It wasn´t a language exchange, just a get together.

Madrid is a great place. Next time I´ll go with Don and I definitely will make it to the Prada.

Jan

[Fiona Pitt-Kethley]

Glad I live in a cheap city! I will visit Madrid eventually though!