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Madrid is a city that has the perfect balance of a city life, but manages to keep all the quaint and quintessential aspects of the Spanish people. It does not compromise on this and for that, I love it. I’ve been to Spain before, mostly in my teens and early 20’s and most of it I can’t remember as I slept through the days and partied at night. This time it was different. This time I was taking long walks, eating great food and visiting sites. I experienced Spain through wiser, clearer and more appreciative eyes.
On the first night we arrived we threw our bags into our hotel room, grabbed a map and set off. Walking along the charismatic streets filled with boutiques, interesting people, lovers and friends we were beckoned by this towering building. Considering the devastation that is happening in the world we share today, this sign, on such a grand building, was a very reassuring one. People all got out their professional cameras and found the perfect spot and the perfect second to take a snap of this powerful image, ‘Refugees Welcome’ while the Spanish flag danced slowly above it.
The next day my iPhone told me it was 28 degrees, although it just felt warm, not too hot, but just nice; the perfect weather for a stroll. Now, after being on a few adventures with my boyfriend, who can walk for hours upon hours with no complaints, I quickly learned I definitely didn’t have the stamina to match. After an hour or so of walking I like to take a pit-stop and grab a drink, an ice cream or just sit down. If this doesn’t happen and I start to get hungry, or just fed up with all the walking, let’s just say I’m not the nicest person to be around. Madrid was the ideal place for people like me because there is always something to admire on a stroll, or plenty of places to take a rest. In the gardens, by the palace or hidden gems located in the most beautiful of sights.
In the evening Madrid turns into this wonderful, flamboyant, entertaining hub of excitement. The people are friendly and no one seems to be in a mad rush, unlike the people in most other cities. In Madrid they seem to have the city life, but without all of the stress and anxiety we feel trying to get on the central line at 08:30am in the morning. It’s relaxed, progressive and full of smiles and great smells.
May I also add: Madrid is full of some of the most beautiful human beings I have ever had the pleasure of seeing – silver foxes and women that were so effortlessly good looking decorated every corner we turned. This factor made for a few funny and interesting moments as we both highlighted that we had never felt more ‘‘British’’ as we did walking through the sea of beautiful people.
Madrid is the perfect balance. Its buildings are just as beautiful as its parks, the food is delicious and the night is a performance of eye catching moments. I would definitely revisit Madrid, maybe leaving a while in between, because I think there would be so much more to explore. It is a great destination for shopping, sightseeing, or just acting as a beautiful backdrop while you spend some quality time with loved ones.
