Tinto Verano? Si!

Made it to Madrid! After a painfully long night train (17 hours!) because of "problems" in Bordeaux, i'm here.

Now, I was told giving in paying to reserve a 'couchette' for these journeys was the way to go. I guess if your train train ride turns into 17 hours yes, but my oh my.. I have never felt more like a sardine in all my life. There were only 3/4 spots filled in our little cabin thingy, but with all the luggage, and personalities in there it was often hard to breath. I'm sure it would be a much better experience if you spoke the same language (even a few words) than the people in there, or were with someone else.

My first impressions of Madrid: alive. Here, it just feels like everyone is so relaxed, and loving life. (not quite as much as Jamaica) I find, after wandering through Madrid for a day, that it is a lot the same as Paris, but a heck of a lot easier to find your way around.

I've come up with this theory: People in Madrid are so happy and full of life because it is generally sunny, and they eat tapa's. While Parisians are cold and wet and always lost, so they get a little grumpy now and then. Just an idea. :P And don't take this wrong, I loved Paris! But I also really love the sunshine here.

It feels like Madrid (or maybe Spain) moves a little slower than everywhere else too. They eat breakfast later,  don't even think about lunch until 3 or 4, and then consider dinner around 9 or 10pm. I think its just because they are too busy enjoying the day... I guess. I don't know why anyone would wait so long for dinner! It is definitely taking time for me to adjust to these meal times, I find myself having some 5 meals today!

Today I just kind of wandered through the streets of Madrid, realizing people watching is probably one of my favourite things to do. There is this massive and beautiful park here, Parque del Retiro, I think I could spend all of my 4-5 days in Madrid here. It is so big, and so great! There are little pockets, with mazes and fountains, and big open plazas with large bodies of water, rowboats and eateries and I could go on and on! With the sun beating through the trees, I could just sit there for days.  Also went to the Prado today, mostly Spanish and Italian paintings, with a dash of Roman sculptures. Went through quick.. but it was beautiful of course.

As for tonight, possibly vino and tapas? Also, Tinto verano? think thats what its called... I went for lunch with a girl from Toronto yesterday and she introduced me to this wonderful concoction of red wine and lemonade. Ohh yummy, I cannot wait for some more!

So until again, Buenos Noches!
I will try and be a little more frequent this week in posting. :P

shannon xx

p.s Madrid has the second largest underground metro system in Europe, right behind London. Surprisingly, way easier to use than Paris. So organized I absolutely love it.