Exploring

Every weekend, I try to find a new area of Madrid to walk around in. It seems like there are endless options of places to explore, which is overwhelming and exciting at the same time. Last weekend, I walked around the Chueca area which is sort of like the Boystown of Madrid. It's filled with cool shops and restaurants and a great place to spend an afternoon or go out at night. I also went to el Palacio Real, the official residence of the Spanish royal family (but they don't actually live there; it's more for ceremonial purposes). Built in the 1700s, the palace is huge and the architecture is breathtaking. One thing I love about walking around Madrid is that every street boasts old and beautiful buildings. I guess this is typical of any European city, but this kind of architectural history is not something we have so much in the US and it makes walking around here all the more enchanting! We've also had some really nice and sunny days here recently. One of my favorite places anytime, but especially when it's nice out, is el Parque Retiro. Always a perfect spot for a picnic, a run, or a nice paseo.

Perfect day for Retiro!

On Sunday I finally had my first visit to the Prado and I already can't wait to go back. Highlights included the Garden of Earthly Delights by Bosch (I could stare at this for hours), Las Meninas by Velásquez, and so many paintings by Goya. Afterwards, Gillian and I discovered the wonder that is 100 Montaditos. This fast food-esque sandwich shop (a montadito is like a mini-sandwich) offers everything on the menu for 1 euro on Sundays and Wednesdays. Score. We each picked a few sandwiches and pulled off a 3.50 euro lunch tab!

On Friday my program is taking a day trip to Toledo, and next weekend I'm going with some friends to Cádiz to celebrate Carnaval. Very excited about both of these trips - updates to come!