We are the old folks in a young people’s Hostel, yet we fit right in. What “OK Hostel Madrid” lacks in amenities it more than makes up for in unabashed friendliness. We enjoyed a communal breakfast and then joined a donation only walking tour of the city. We enjoyed performances by the remarkable street musicians and a church choir.
The second picture below is of the Royal Palace that dates to the 18th Century and is the largest in Western Europe, containing over 3,000 rooms and the largest collection of medieval armor in the world.
Above it the facade of the Madrid Cathedral where it faces the Royal Palace.
This evening, Karen at the front desk recommended that we walk 20 minutes to Plaza de Santa Ana in the Letres Barrio to Vinoteca Barbechera. What a fabulous recommendation that turned out to be. The night and city vibrations were accentuated by excellent tapas and a remarkable Vino Tinto Tempranillo. We FaceTimed with some of the “little people” and reflected on the past, present, and future. Our servers, Bianca and Carlos were absolutely the best! Dinner started at 10pm, but the memories will last a lifetime.
Tomorrow we tour more of the city and then board a Tren-Hotel (train hotel) at 9:40pm bound for Lisbon. We have a private sleeping compartment that will be our overnight “home” until we arrive in Lisbon Portugal the next morning.
Peace Everyone! Pete
Nancy Furse says:
What a great city. I spent a few days there before & after walking the Camino. Just loved it. Did day trips also from there. Your not missing the 20 degrees & snow here in KC I bet !!! Enjoy your continued journey.
Best regards, Nancy
Pete Schloss says:
Nancy, your weather sounds crazy!!
Pete Schloss says:
It was almost 20 here, but that’s Celsius!
Pauline Schloss says:
I think you are having a wonderful
trip through Spain–Good food–good accoms–good people as you journey on–God Bless!!