Madrid, Spain: “A step back in time”

As a young teen, I spent my first three high school years in Madrid, Spain. My father was a career USAF officer and we were stationed in Madrid.  I always dreamed as a young woman of returning, not realizing that once my sons flew away to college, I would fly away as a flight attendant for a major airline.  My first assignment as a new graduate, was to Madrid! I was thrilled, not only to visit Madrid but also to Barcelona, Seville and many other Spanish cities.

Even as a young teen, today I still have my favorite spots to visit whenever I am in Madrid. Those of you who read my columns, know what an avid art aficionado I am and still today my favorite place to visit, when in Madrid is El Prado Museum – to indulge in Velasquez, El Greco, La Goya, and Caravaggio. Instead of grabbing a cappuccino in the museum restaurant, why not enjoy sipping some Spanish wine in the garden of The Ritz restaurant, only a few steps away!​

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Madrid is such an magnificent city with its glorious fountains and parks – but the most welcoming invitation to Spain are its' people and culture!  Dinner served beginning at 9:00pm, engaging in a glass of wine before the meal – and if you are picking up a newspaper at any of the local kiosks, don't be surprised if the owner extends an offer to sip a glass of local wine, as he takes a break with you from his business during the heat of the day!​

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Top places to visit

The Prado Museum – I love visiting in the evening hours – rather than fight the crowds earlier in the day.  Eminent Spanish works include Velazquez's "Las Meninas," Goya's "The Third of May 1808," El Greco's "Adoration of the Shepherds" and Caravaggio's "David with the Head of Goliath.”

After a day at El Prado enjoy the outside and early evening with a stroll through the beautiful gardens next to El Prado, Real Jardín Botánico!  Absolutely amazing with the foliage and flowers in abundance everywhere!

Reina Sofía –  Famous modern art gallery with over1,000 works are spread across four floors, but probably the most famous work is found on the second floor. Picasso's "Guernica" is the museum's crowning jewel. ​

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Plaza Mayor – Located in the heart of Madrid – a must experience event!  People watching while enjoying your tapas and wine! Ringed with cafés and bars, the Plaza Mayor invites all passerby's to enjoy the ambiance of the Spanish culture!  

Cybeles Fountain:  A magnificent fountain, centered in a square by the same name. Commissioned by King Carlos III, the majestic fountain depicts the goddess Cibeles riding a lion-led carriage. A number of important buildings surround the fountain, making it a good place to snap some pictures.
Royal Palace: This former home of the Spanish royalty is an opulent palace with nearly 3,000 rooms — though only about 50 are on public tour. Many experts suggest definitely viewing the sumptuous Reception Room, the State Apartments, the Royal Armory and the Royal Pharmacy. ​

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 Corral de la Morería in Madrid : When visiting Madrid, Seville or Barcelona it is a MUST not to return home without seeing the infamous flamenco dancing!  Corral de la Morería still is the best in the world – as noted in the  famous book of 1,000 places to visit. I remember going as a young teen – one word – awe- inspiring , spectacular! You will be speechless as its grandeur and feel the emotion of these magnificent people!
The list is endless for you will enjoy your visit to Madrid.  They have my favorite hop on and off bus tours that can give you an overview of places if given the time, you can revisit and spend a day!  The key is no matter if you have two or ten days – you will leave Spain as a place you would want to return too to for another visit. In fact, many military families have actually retired in this magnificent land.  
Enjoy your visit – as you will be welcomed by these most gracious people!

Happy Travels!

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