Madrid part 2.

We boycotted the hotel buffet breakfast for room breakfast on our balcony. Good decision.

Bit of a slow start but we eventually decided to go and walk through the big park here – Retiro.

Nice park. Saw baby ducks and people punting on a small lake.

We walked through the park and then went to a famous Horchatta vendor and got a horchatta each.

After horchatta it was time for lunch – and we needed to have a Calamari roll because, delicious. We made our way to El Brilliante Bar which was recommended to us.

After lunch we were going to go to a museum but decided against it and instead we went to have a (very good) coffee in a tiny place we found and then went back to the hotel for a swim in the pool. It’s like 37 degrees here. Scorchio.

Swim and rest in hotel room during the hottest part of the day completed (I think this is what is referred to as a siesta) we headed out again to find a shop that sold local produce. I need some paprika!

We caught the subway there. The guy in the shop was very friendly and helpful and I left with all my favourite things – paprika, olive oil, sardines & salt.

When then wanted to check out a nearby market but our plans were foiled by a huge Pride block party that was starting up. All the streets were blocked off and we could see the market but could not get to it.

We gave up and headed back to the hotel to drop off my purchases and then went out again and stopped for a drink and a nearby bar. This place is called Bar.

Then it was on to the San Miguel market to get some dinner. It was really busy in there but we got some random things to eat. All very delicious – especially the crispy pork belly.

It actually started raining at this point which was unexpected but a welcome relief.

A quick stop at Ale Hop to buy some unnecessary items and hear their weird repetitive music

Then a bit more of a wander before stopping off at Bar again to catch up with Piper and Brett and deconstruct our days.

Around midnight we decided it was probably time to go to bed. It’s hard to go back to the hotel when the nights are so warm and the bars are so chilled.

Goodnight.