So we got to Madrid around 5AM, and were woken up by the bus station security guards around 6. Diana led our tour de Madrid in the morning and we caught all the best sites – Sol, Plaza Mayor, a palace on the hill with an attached garden, and the bear-with-cherry tree statue. We ended up at the huge park called Retiro. Highlights of the park were its HUGE-ness, a beautiful glass palace, and a big lake with a column statue thing on the edge. We were both pretty tired and grumpy. I think our end-of-trip lack-of-sleep was catching up to us. After a nap in the park, our spirits lightened and we saw some more Madrid. I have to go back. One day is just not enough. Especially since the one museum we really wanted to see (the Prado) was closed on Mondays. Bummer.
So we bought movie tickets (discounted for a Monday) but were too cheap to split a bag of the popcorn we both loved, so we just admired it from a distance. Instead, we found a café and ordered the usual (me = sparkling water, Diana = coffee with milk). The bartender told us to sit down, so we went outside and had a seat. When our drinks came they were twice as much as what we saw on the menu! Turns out if you sit outside, they rip you off. Mind you this was a crappy café overlooking a gross plaza, movie theatre and parking garage! We spent the next half hour complaining to each other and to our waiter. Then we played cards. We were happy. After doubting our frugality by splurging on the movie, we truly were still as cheap as can be. But we were angry, because we could have gotten three popcorns for the price we paid for our drinks. Oh well.
Our last night in Spain turned into some delicious wine, interesting conversation and endless dancing. We made it to the airport in time for our 8AM flight to Paris, and navigated our way to Pitouche’s house. The hot shower, warm hospitality, home cooked meal and friendly faces were priceless. In Paris we did some exploring (we’re getting quite good at it) and there we met up with my mom and Terry for some great times.
What a great summer! I wish it could have lasted forever, but now I’m back in the States chilling out and looking for jobs. Email me! Say hi! Share what you’re up to! Come visit! Tell me where you are and I’ll come visit you!
Lots of love. Until next post,
Andrea
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