Madrid has been such a pleasant surprise. Contrary to what I've heard, it is a beautiful city with the most amazing food. There's a lot to do here but you don't feel overwhelmed like in other big cities. Gazing at Spanish architecture, visiting the museums and churches, relaxing in the park, going to the market to indulge in food, the shopping - this all makes me like Madrid very much. Everything is just an easy stroll away and you don't need too much money (the two main museums, Prado and Reina Sophia, are free at night!). Unless of course, you want to shop like a mad hatter like myself! I threw the budget out today.
I'm staying in a great hostel , 360 Centro, which is located right in the heart of all the action near Puerta de Sol. The staff and my roommates have been fantastic, the rooms are really clean, and there's fresh churros in the morning! After having the blues on my last day in Paris and having the most awkward (and first!) couchsurfing taint my impression of San Sebastian, it's good to be in a place like this. It feels great meeting people, seeing new things, appreciating the moments and really enjoying travelling.
I think I have finally broken the spell of bad weather. Madrid has so fat blessed me with warm, sunny days with blue skies.
I am so happy to be here!
