Post by Lulie Swanepoel

Madrid, an artistic city nicely acknowledged for its passionate and cultural pursuits and the spot which Marius and I were on our way to for a two week vacation, but rather of booking into a single of the local hotels, we opted for an apartment in Madrid as a substitute.

Princesa AltaThe apartment we had booked said that it was a two bedroom, which we expected would be something little. When we booked the apartment, we had been informed it would be one thing modest in dimension, but it was every thing but small! The apartment, also recognized as the Princesa Alta, was large sufficient for a household of 6, complete with two bathrooms, bedrooms, internet and indescribable views. What really manufactured the apartment excellent was the reality that Princesa Alta is found in the heart of Malasaña.

I would describe Malasaña as a suburb related to Camden Town in London, exactly where all the locals hang out for a more substitute night time scene. There are a good deal of bars and nightclubs and considering that Marius and I have been there for a great cultural encounter that would also consist of a couple of late nights, this was just the spot we wanted to be. In the center of Malasaña is the Plaza del Dos de Mayo, a historical sight that types component of the explosion of fashion, theatre and nightlife in the 1980’s.

Some sights and soundsWe had been in one of Europe’s most gorgeous cities, living in a wonderful apartment and prepared for some sightseeing. That’s how we ended up at the Rasta Market place. I thought it a bit peculiar that in the center of this Spanish city, there was a marketplace that 1 would typically affiliate with Jamaica, but nevertheless it seemed like the put to be. There have been actually thousands of individuals (however for Marius, considering that he doesn’t take care of crowds all that properly), but the market place turned out to be practically nothing like we anticipated. Amidst some less desirable second hand products, there had been a number of gems to be identified. Forgetting that I had to carry almost everything that I purchased, I soon learnt my lesson. Marius just laughed at me, since he did alert me, but getting the gentleman that he is, he eventually provided to aid me carry some of my bags.

We quickly located ourselves at the Royal Palace of Madrid, better acknowledged to the locals as Palacio Actual de Madrid. This is supposedly the official residence for the Spanish royal family members, but they don’t really reside right here, rather they are living in one more palace (since royalties has so many) named the Palacio de la Zarzuela. There is only a single phrase to describe the palace: Breathtaking. The decoration of the palace was completed by some of the world’s best artists, including Goya and if armour is your curiosity, then you’ll enjoy this palace as well. Marius, a fanatic of the Highlander videos, was excited at the assortment of swords. Although I located it quite exciting, it was instead the breathtaking views that had me in awe.

Not with no a bit of neighborhood cuisineWe had no concept the status which Casa Botin carried as the oldest restaurant in the world! Marius and I virtually acquired misplaced since the location is a correct labyrinth, but I do confess it was instead our very own stupidity. Our friendly, beneficial waitress proposed we try the ‘coccinillo’ which is roasted pig and their homemade sangria, both of which ended up wonderful. I couldn’t aid but make a little piggy of myself by overindulging, but hey, when you are on holiday, who cares? By the time we had to go again house the two of us ended up so full, strolling again to our flat nearly appeared like a punishment, effectively value each bite I have to add.

In the course of our two week remain we couldn’t get sufficient of the regional cuisine. Everything was so colourful and tasty. One particular factor I discovered was that some of the meals ended up a minor hotter than I was utilised to. Sangria and Horchata became the favourite drinks to support awesome down the spicy foods.

Marius and I almost certainly coated the total of Madrid for the duration of our two week keep. Marius constantly says that the finest way to get to know a town is by foot. This way you are capable to locate these little hidden streets that you would generally miss when heading on a bus tour and Madrid, although appearing massive on the map, was not at all not possible to traverse our wanted destination by foot. The locals are pleasant and ready to support ought to you get misplaced and given that Madrid is so cosmopolitan language does not generate any unhappiness. So if you ever travel to Madrid, guide an apartment to get a much better expertise of the local life and journey by foot. Yes you may experience tired at the finish of the day, but it’s a tired feeling you know is effectively well worth each and every phase.

About the Writer

WayToStay on the web apartment bookings provide short-stay self catering Madrid Apartments as the smarter alternative to hotels for leisure and business travellers.