Day 24- Tracvel from Barcelona to Madrid

It was a late start again this morning with me being awake at about 7.39 am . I had a bit of a restless night as I am coming down with a bit of a cold!!! I think I caught it on the ship… bugger.

After a bit of breakfast we packed and were on our way down in the lift to check our train departures when we realised we had 10.40 train and not a 1.30 pm train!!!!

So it was panic stations for a while but it was relatively easy to check our, catch a cab to the station… we arrived in good time to board the high speed train to Madrid.

The journey was about 3 and a half hours but was quite comfortable. We were seated. Near a few Canadian travelers who were on an extended trip through Spain. Good to chat with them about life in Canada and the Trump effect on their lives… ugggh!

Arriving in Madrid we made our way by cab to the hotel… it is called the Umusic Hotel and is what I would call rather hip!!! The room we have is rather small but ok but it has a rooftop bar which is great and it seems to have a concert venue!

After doing a tour around the facilities we then went on a short walk around the town… I was staggered at the parts we visited which included the Mayor Plaza with its many restaurants on the square. We then came across this lovely market with an assortment of takeout shops and seating which was great… seems like it was a small version of the Victoria Market with takeout venues of every imaginable type. We had a glass of wine and shared some oysters which was really good!

After this we made our way to the Kings Palace and cathedral which were very impressive. The walk back to the hotel was interesting going through side streets and many open spaces with cafes and bars.

After a short rest at the hotel we went back to the Mayor Square for dinner and had a lovely paella and salad for dinner. It was very good and one of the best meals so far on the trip.

After making our way back to the hotel it was time for bed after a big day.

To be frank the first day in Madrid was outstanding…

The San Miguel market!!! Wow what an experience!