Five reasons why Madrid is the place to be

Actress Penelope Cruz once said “Madrid is what I call home.” That quote to me came at no surprise. The city is home to the Spanish Royal family as well as the Spanish Government. It is a modern metropolitan city and an economical and industrial center of Spain, and, with its population of nearly 3.5 million people, it’s also the biggest city in Spain.

Madrid is Europe’s sunniest capital city. The blue sky and sunlight enhance the vibrant and joyful energy of the city, gifting it with a climate that makes it possible, at any time of day or night, to walk the streets. 

Now I’m going to give you five reasons why Madrid is the place to be any time of the year even though I just celebrated the holidays and it was a dream.

First, let’s talk about the friendly and beautiful people of Madrid.

The people are warm, welcoming and friendly. Life also moves a little slower in Madrid. So ,for those who want life in a big city without the bustle, this will give you the lifestyle you want, except at night, but we will get to that.

It’s a hugely cosmopolitan city where you can find every culture represented but always reminded how proud Spaniards are about their country and heritage. It gives you a sense of belonging for its history forged most of us in one way or another.

Now let’s talk about the shopping in Madrid!

Shopping has become one of the top things to do in Madrid. The capital city of Spain is famous for its bustling streets filled with designer boutiques shops and well-known clothing stores, as well as lively flea markets, and tempting malls.

But what about places? I like “El Mercado de San Miguel.” From the best Iberico ham to the freshest seafood, driving every day from Galicia, to the mediterranean rices or the most special cheese from Castilla, Asturias or The Vasc Country.

You will find it in the Mercado of San Miguel with more than 20 stands that are united in bringing you one of the single most unique experiences you will live in Spain. And after you have shopped until you drop and take a light siesta, get ready for dinner, drinks and dancing.

Our third and fourth reasons are the restaurants and nightlife.

With restaurants featuring classic Madrid cooking, regional Spanish cuisine, and plenty of tapas, there’s something for everyone. Eating in Madrid is tied to the seasons and as any cosmopolitan city you can literally find anything you want. Some of my personal favorites are La Bien Aparecida, El Gordo de Velazquez and Bibo by chef Dani García. In regards to how will it impact your pocket? Prices of basic products in Madrid are lower than in United States. You have to pay 1.21 times less for shopping in Madrid than in United States. So you can have a casual meal that will be around 18 Euros and go up from there.

Once you have enjoyed the delicious food and downed a few bottles of wine, Madrid’s nightlife is on fire! There are many choices on where to go but to me there is only one place and that is the community of Chueca. Packed with beautiful people, friendly folks, great drag shows and fantastic places where to go when the night is over for a quick bite before going to bed. Some of my favorite places that I highly recommend are Baranoa, Moon and La Kama, but I would advise you to go bar hopping and experience as many as you can. Madrid is super inclusive and diverse and I truly felt safe walking around the streets at night. Just like any place always be mindful.

And our final, if we have to pick a final one, reason in this short list of why Madrid is like no other city is their open parks and the experience of walking through them and even meeting friends to stop for a nibble and a cocktail in the middle of the day for no reason. There are many options but then this wouldn’t be an article, it would turn into a novel, but my favorite is El Retiro. 

El Retiro is one of the largest parks of the city of Madrid, Spain. The park belonged to the Spanish Monarchy until the late 19th century, when it became a public park. This park is the perfect place to go see live concerts, book fairs and there is also an outdoor exercising area for both the old and the young. I met some of my friends for a drink and tapas at the restaurant and bar La Galería and what supposed to be a quick eat became hours of laughing and creating memories with loved ones. 

So there it is my friends! If you are thinking about where to take a trip and have not decided, please take my word on it, Madrid is the place to be. Tell them I sent you I think I met half of the city.

Sending love to everyone or better said: Amor para todos, tío!

By Guest Writer Enrique Sapene