Reprinted here from emails to the family from our European holiday June 2024.
We have arrived in Madrid now and are settled in an Airbnb where we will stay for three nights before heading to Valencia. We’d made our way from the airport, via train to Madrid proper, by where the Airbnb accommodation is. We had to wait while our Airbnb host could get back to let us in early, normal check-in is 1700 while we wanted to drop our bags off at midday. He was in a meeting till 1300 and met us after 1330 which is much appreciated. Took this while we waited in the shade from the trees outside the building.
Once we were able to drop our bags we went sight seeing. First to Plaza de Toros the bull fighting stadium, but just outside, didn’t bother with a tour. We went to Sol station, Plaza Mayor after that, and Nicole has brought her SLR camera, so there was a lot of photographing.
It was a massive day yesterday and we were both tired, so are home for an early night tonight. On the way we stopped in the supermarket to pick up supplies, and came across Lindt under lock and key, it’s super expensive, and must be a target for shoplifters. Unwilling to pay a such a large premium for Lindt, I went for one of the local versions instead.
I got a Spanish SIM card for my phone, so we have a number, but email is still best to contact me. But in case if you need it, that number is +34 61 383 0690.
Yesterday was rainy and we went to the Prado. You can’t take photos inside, so here’s the view from by the entrance after we departed.
After the Prado we went to a bar for drinks and Paela (Spanish risotto). Followed by a Flamenco performance.
Today we went to Mayor Plaza and the Market of Saint Miguel where Nicole enjoyed many tapas. Both were ridiculously crowded with tourists, but the eating was excellent and good value for money.
Nicole took plenty of better photos with her giant camera, but we don’t have the adapter or the cable to send those till we get home. The buildings are beautiful and the climate amazing, blue skies, slight breeze and perfect temperature today.
After the market we went to the Cathedral which is next to the Palace.
The Cathedral was closing when we arrived, and so we couldn’t go up the tower like we planned, however the Royal collection gallery was free to enter today, so we did that instead.
Following the gallery we walked up the hill to the Temple of Debod, an Egyptian structure moved to Madrid as thanks for some assistance. The view from the hill back to the palace and cathedral is worth the hike, unfortunately the temple was closed due to a concert being held there soon, so we couldn’t go in.
After the temple we went back to the airbnb via the supermarket and a fruit shop to eat at home.
Tomorrow we are on the train to Valencia where we stay a couple days. Will write again soon.