First Sunday in Madrid

Last night I caught up on sleep. My air-conditioned room made for ideal slumbering conditions.

This morning I woke up and had breakfast with my computer, browsing tourism sites looking for advice on my first day in the city. Madrid.com recommended I start in El Rastro. Ever Sunday there is a flea market full a quirky vendors.

I hoped on the subway, which is very clean and easy to navigate. I found my way to the market and wandered amongst the stalls snapping a few pictures along the way. People were selling everything; fans, hand painted pottery, shoes, pashmina scarfs,   I even saw fanny packs.

Yesterday my impression of Madrid reminded me of Buenos Aires. But today I saw winding streets centuries older. I walked most of old town popping my head into little tapas bars to see people bellied up to the bar for a quick bite to eat.

When it came time for my turn to eat I fulfilled Stuart’s request that I go to Casa del Abuelo. We had gone to this tapas bar the first time we were in Spain. Throughout the day I saw many things that reminded me of Stu, I even passed the hostel we stayed in back in 2008. I ordered a glass of house wine and some garlic shrimp. Being back there got me really excited for the year ahead.

My Spanish feels a little weak. But people don’t automatically assume I am American. The waiter from Abuelo’s asked “Italiana?”. The accent here is quite different, and I haven’t had to speak Spanish in a few months. I think school and moving in with Spanish roommates will help immensely.

After lunch I wandered down Paseo del Prado and hooked a right towards La Reina Sofia. I love this museum. They have an excellent collection of modern art and house Picasso’s Guernica. I found out the museum is free on Sundays, but closes early. I plan to go back next weekend in the morning so I can do a full tour.

I continued my walk, allowing myself to walk down random streets and get a little lost. I had a map in my pocket and knew I could find my way home at any point. I spent a good stretch of time in Retiro Park before heading back to my apartment.

Speaking of my apartment; Arturo’s place is great. I am so glad I went with Air B &B. Here are a few photos of the flat.

This afternoon I am doing some reading for school and starting my apartment hunt. My adventure today gave me a good feel for neighborhoods, I have some ideas where I’d like to dwell. Tomorrow I plan to see NYU’s campus and hopefully visit a few living options.