Air travel in this era of increased security can be such a pain – but so worth it when one reaches the destination. Flights to Charlotte and Madrid were on time, our checked bags arrived, and we made it through passport control smoothly, albeit slowly. It was a true test of patience as it seems that at least a dozen planes arrived this early morning, with hundreds, nay thousands, disembarking at the same time, overwhelming the passport control facilities and personnel. It took well over 90 minutes to get the passport stamped. Then it was off to collect baggage and take a taxi into Madrid.
Our hotel, booked by Fresco Tours, is a lovely old edifice, nicely updated, with the typical European room dimensions (i.e. cramped) and the location is fantastico – across from the Prado and Retiro Park.
After a short snooze ( not much sleep on the plane, even with the “extra” leg room, and the subarctic temperature setting didn’t help!), we searched out a place for tapas – hey, we’re in Spain! A small place called “Lateral” recommended by the hotel desk clerk was just a short stroll away in the Plaza Santa Ana. We strolled around a bit and we’re taking a little cocktail break before our private Madrid tour this evening.
Some food “porn” from our first day – more to come, I’m sure.
One thing, though – I haven’t seen a single cat today. Last year’s trip to Greece was a cat lovers fantasy!
Camino Musings 