In January 2017, my forever travel buddy Jason and I embarked on an exciting journey from Barcelona to Madrid. Our chosen mode of transportation was the RenfeTrain, which whisked us away to our destination in just 2 ½ hours. As the train glided through the Spanish countryside, we were treated to a breathtakingly scenic view. I've always been a fan of train travel, and this trip was no exception. The comfortable seats allowed us to stretch out and relax, making the journey all the more enjoyable.
Arriving in Madrid late in the afternoon, we embarked on a long walk to our hotel. Finally reaching our destination, we couldn't help but notice a slightly eerie vibe emanating from the building. Strangely, both Jason and I experienced unsettling nightmares during our stay. Adding to the mystery was the small window in our room that opened to a void-like area of the building. It was an inexplicable feeling, and I couldn't shake the sensation of not wanting to be alone in that room. Jason speculated that the hotel's age, coupled with Madrid's historical significance as an old town, might have contributed to our unexplained anxiety.
The following morning, we eagerly set out to explore Madrid's vibrant streets. Our first stop was Plaza Mayor, a must-visit location in the heart of the city. Hungry from our adventures, we sat down at one of the restaurants lining the plaza to enjoy a delightful breakfast. Dining outside, surrounded by the old structures and cobblestone floors, transported us to another era. The lively atmosphere of the plaza was reminiscent of classic European squares, where local street performers entertained passersby with their talents in exchange for tips. Feeling inspired, we couldn't resist the opportunity to strike a pose in flamenco and matador costumes, capturing the spirit of Spain.
As a Filipino, I was pleasantly surprised to discover various names and places that resonated with my heritage. From the Islas Filipinas metro station and Farmacia Filipinas (a pharmacy) to Avenida De Filipinas, where a statue of the Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal, proudly stood, Madrid seemed to pay homage to the Philippines. The replica of the statue found in Luneta, Manila, added a touch of familiarity and a sense of connection. To top it off, there was even a street named after my maiden surname, "Cano," adding a personal touch to our Madrid adventure.
Spain's love for pork was evident throughout the city. Many restaurants proudly displayed hanging pig legs, a tradition rooted in the Spanish Inquisition, serving as a symbol of Catholicism and differentiation from Muslim culture.
We had the opportunity to visit Restaurante Botin, recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest restaurant in the world, established in 1725. We were fortunate enough to take a guided tour. Despite its unassuming exterior, the restaurant held a wealth of history within its walls. Venturing down to the wine cellar through an underground tunnel, we marveled at the traditional recipes that had been passed down through generations. The sight of succulent "roasted cochinillo" (suckling pig) on display made our mouths water in anticipation.
Our culinary exploration continued at Mercado de San Miguel, a food market that tantalized our taste buds with an array of delectable street food. Among the tempting offerings, I discovered a newfound love for Gulas, a processed fish paste made from surimi, which provided a unique and delightful flavor experience.
While wandering through Madrid's enchanting streets, I couldn't help but be fascinated by the grandeur of the city's oversized doors. These massive entrances were designed to accommodate carriages and horses, serving as a reminder of a bygone era when transportation was quite different from what we know today.
Jason's favorite spot, the Museo Naval, captured our attention and drew us back for a second visit. The museum featured an ongoing exhibit about the Philippines, showcasing the boats that once traveled between the Philippines and Spain. The fascinating displays shed light on the historical significance of the Manila Galleon trade, leaving us with a deeper understanding of the connections between our two countries.
One of the highlights of our trip was the recommendation from my cousin to visit Chocolatería San Gines, known for serving the best Churros in town. Eager to put her advice to the test, we made our way to the chocolatería, and she was absolutely right! The crispy Churros paired with the rich, heavenly chocolate dipping sauce were a match made in dessert heaven.
Among all the places we visited, Retiro Park held a special place in my heart. This serene retreat, featuring fountains, lakes, and enchanting gardens, provided a much-needed respite from the bustling city. Once a palace, the park had endured its share of historical events, including damage from the Peninsular War. Yet, despite its turbulent past, Retiro Park now stood as a peaceful haven, with gentle melodies serenading visitors and creating a soothing ambiance.
Our travels through Madrid not only offered us a glimpse into the city's rich history but also allowed us to indulge in its culinary delights, explore its architectural marvels, and embrace the unique connections to my Filipino heritage. From the captivating streets to the immersive museums and tranquil retreats, Madrid presented us with an unforgettable adventure filled with warmth, wonder, and the joy of discovery. Exploring the history of Spain was an experience we will forever cherish, and Madrid will always hold a special place in our hearts.
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