The Bear and the Strawberry Tree: Madrid, Spain!
Visiting Spain always feels like a nostalgic rediscovery of my ancestors. As you may know, I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and our roots are historically described as Tainos, Africans, and Spaniards. One of the biggest goals I strive to achieve is to visit every country at least once and, along that journey, learn more about my roots. This time around, I went to visit Madrid because one of my then-friends wanted to know what Spain is all about, so here is to the land of The Bear and the Strawberry Tree!
The order of the pictures and places I visited is not chronological, but it will give you a good idea of our time there.
El Mercado de San Miguel
This picture was slightly hard to get for different reasons; for starters, there was a lot of traffic, and when I say a lot, I mean that between the cars, trucks, and pedestrians, it is practically impossible unless you wake up early in the morning, get an expresso and walk over just for one picture.
Built in 1946 by architect Alfonso Dubé y Díez, El Mercado de San Miguel are a gastronomical feast for the eyes and a place to buy a souvenir or two.
The Bull Ring
I wanted to visit La Plaza de Toros, is the largest venue in Spain and the third largest worldwide. Bullfighting is a traditional event celebrated in Spain, Portugal, some parts of Southern France and some Latin American countries. At the beginning of each bullfight, or corrida, a parade called a paseíllo takes place. This parade involves the participants of the bullfight entering the arena and saluting the bullfight’s president. While bullfighting is strongly associated with masculinity and machismo, there are actually some female bullfighters, and have been since the early 20th century. Unfortunately, there were no events during my visit but perhaps another time.
Madrid Streets
If you don’t mind walking, you will love strolling around town. The streets are full of performances, vendors, and delightful treats you can try along the way. I may not have a degree in architecture. Still, I am a sucker for structural sights, those being the ones that seem to have stuck in time and the ones that blend harmonically with the future with the past.
The Royal Palace
Built by Muhammad I Umayyad, Emir of Cordoba, the exorbitant and elegant royal palace is certainly not one to miss. While you are not allowed to use any devices in specific areas, this exquisite monument will live perpetually as the marvelous statue you once visited. Do make sure you make your reservations ahead of time; the lines are excruciatingly long. Also, mind the weather; as seen in this picture, it did rain on my way out. You can get a private tour, just as I did, and get the pre-recorded version that walks you through the entire palace.
The grand staircase within the palace is made of a single marble, as shown in Evye Luvz’s Visits Madrid video.
Principe Pio Mall
Built in the 1900s, this, now commonly known as a mall, used to be the Estación del Norte train station. Principe Pio Mall is definitely a way to shop in a “Back to Future” style.
Surprisingly, you can find local merchants and traditional snacks. However, I do warn you that the clothes are targeting a specific demographic, so you may need help finding something that suits your body type. Regardless, the Centro Comercial Principe Pio is definitely worth the stroll.
Transportation
This taxi reminds me of the tuk-tuk transportation in Thailand, so I had to show you so that you can see the “luxe” version.
Flamenco Nights
If I didn’t mention it before, let me say now that I love Flamenco! The show was full of colorful customers and a great live performance, and it came with free sangria! Do not make the same “mistake” as I did of saying “Esos” instead of “Ole,” which is my Puerto Rican way of chanting my approval.
You can make reservations online or purchase tickets at the ticket box next to the venue. Either way, get ready to enjoy an hour of rhythmic passion.
Foods
Because I didn’t have enough time to research traditional dishes, I decided to go on a food tour, and it became a must-do. Not only do you get to meet people from all over the world with surreal stories, but you also find local hidden gems. During the tour, you can ask the local or tour guide about additional traditional dishes, drinks, and more.
In case you didn’t know, I have a YouTube channel where you can view the entire trip and more. Check the links below. As for the weather, I do not recommend you to visit Madrid in the beginning of the year if you want to avoid the rain and cool breeze.
