Friday, November 18, 2011

Hola Madrid!


The past few days in Madrid have gone by in a flash and today, I repacked my luggage to prepare for my flight home on Sunday. Sadness? Hmmm.... not really. Following flow takes away an attachment to situations and that includes holidays! I know that the flow is for me to be back home to continue what I need to do and when it is time, I will be back to Madrid and Scotland.

In the meantime, will continue to enjoy my hols and Madrid!

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La Mallorquina is located at Puerta de Sol and has been a local and tourist favorite since 1894. When I was here in Sept, I kept walking past it, ogling at the delicious treats but did not have a chance to try any of the them. So this time round, when my sis and I walked past it for an appointment, I walked in (it is always crowded) and the napolitanas de chocolate caught my eye.


It is absolutely delicious and if we weren't in a hurry to meet my sis' friend, I would have gotten another. It is worth every single calorie and for just $1.20 euros, totally affordable! It was only when I googled the shop that I realised that this is one of their best sellers. I can totally understand why!

Another morning (its location is so convenient, near to Sol Metro which we walk past frequently), I tried their trufas de chocolate and it is sinfully yummy. Smooth, creamy and very decadent.

LinkThe Templo de Debod or Temple of Debod is an ancient Egyptian temple which was rebuilt in Madrid, Spain. The night view of it is lovely isn't it?

We discovered three chairs nicely positioned right in the middle of the path. Perfect for a photo opportunity.


As you know, I love clouds. And this caught my eye, the shimmering silver lining.

Received a piece of unsettling news yesterday morning. It was good that my sis and I went out for appointments. Seeing the beautiful autumn trees and colours helped dispel the sombre mood, nature always recharges and heals.

We went for an appointment at Atocha railway station and this sight caught my eye.

When I was here in Sept, my Spanish friend pointed out the Cibeles fountain to me and for some reason, I wanted to take a photo in front of it which was not possible as it is in the middle of a busy junction. My friend said it's rare that the roads will be closed.

Then last night, when my sis and I were out, the roads were closed and I could finally take a photo. It is only when I googled that I realised who Cibeles is. This fountain is named after Cybele (or Ceres), the Roman goddess of agriculturem grain crops, fertility and motherly relationships. Nice!Link

It is common in Spain to have a drink and tapas while standing at one of the many tapas bars. I have not done it the Spanish way yet so last night, my sis brought me to a popular one called Bodega de Angel Sierra. It was a good thing that it was not as crowded as it is usually so it was comfortable standing.


After the drink, it was time for dinner. Her friend Sergio brought us to Mercado de San Anton which is located in Chueca, a vibrant area near the Gran Via. The first level of 12 stalls sell meats, cheese, seafood, fruits, flowers, pastries and other items, some precooked. Level two, where we went, has 11 stalls of prepared foods. Public seating on this level is corrala style, which intentionally replicates a Spanish patio for people watching. It also has rooftop restaurants and a trendy bar.

For people who love wine, you can find many good wines at very affordable prices here.

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