I've been researching Madrid and Barcelona for the past few days in preparation for my trip (next week!), and I have something to admit: I'm scared. Does it make me a huge baby to be frightened by beautiful European cities? Probably. I've been to at least thirty-odd beautiful European cities, but this is the first time I won't be able to wedge myself between my dad and my older brother whenever I feel unsafe, like that time we got lost in the red light district in Amsterdam. (The red light district of Amsterdam is no fun when you're a thirteen year old girl). (Or ever).
But I've found a solution: going onto Pinterest, searching for "Madrid," and seeing everything that appears before me. BAM. Currently thinking of hidden plazas and ice cream.
When I'm knee-deep in travel guides, I forget that there's more to a city than petty crime and seedy neighborhoods. Plus, I live in New York City. (Granted, I'm in the safest zip code available, but that doesn't mean that something bad can't ever happen). Still, from now on, I'm going to focus on the great things about Spain: the parks. The wine. The tapas. The museums. The outdoor markets. The dining al fresco.
Have you been to Madrid or Barcelona? Are there any can't-miss spots? I'm already looking forward to the croquettes, the hole-in-the-wall wine bars, and exploring ruins.
Photos courtesy of: Gilmar Mattos and Jou Jou Villeroy
5 comments:
we just got back from 4 days in Barcelona last night and it was amazing! I'll be blogging some suggestions in the next week or so, but my number one would be don't miss the Cerveceria Catalana - AMAZING authentic Spanish tapas - not the touristy kind - this place is packed with locals and it's also really nice and the prices are very reasonable! Enjoy your trip :)
Woah! The photo on the left is almost exactly the same as one I snapped in Spain (though mine also features our tour guide, back from when I was 15).
I actually have a whole post on my adventures in Spain. I definitely recommend simple Spanish meals like pan con tomates and tortilla de patatas, as well as paella and churros! If you like museums, Museo del Prado is unbeatable.
Don't be scared! Spain is a beautiful country with tons to see and do.
Madrid is amazing and you will love it! Remember, Spain is a late night kind of place so do dinner late. I haven't been to Barcelona yet, but in Madrid, just be savvy the way you would be in any city and you'll be fine :)
And in Madrid, try Los Gatos on C/de Jesus 2 for tapas. It's an eclectic little place but very popular with locals xo
Since you live in New York, I would recommend you visit Bermuda. It isn't too far away and is simply beautiful. Here is a post I did about it. Beautiful Bermuda
So jealous, Madrid will be fabulous!
Deanna~ I nominated you for The Liebster Blog Award in my new post. Be sure to go by my blog to see how to accept! :)
~Karen
http://fashionboardconfessional.blogspot.com
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