tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69488574375512189242024-03-13T21:19:07.616+01:00AIL Madrid Spanish Language School BlogAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.comBlogger249125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-53851823439028908492019-01-29T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T11:49:27.182+01:00Obtaining a Police Report in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Obtaining a police report in Madrid is actually relatively quick and painless. You may be thinking, ‘<i>why would I need a police report?</i>’</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You could need a police report for a foreign visa, for example, or for a variety of other legal reasons. If you do need proof that you’re not a criminal (at least not here in Spain that is), you’ll need a police report from the Spanish authorities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your official “<i>certificado de antecedentes penales</i>”.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go to the <i>Ministerio de Justicia</i>, which is located in the <i>Plaza de Jacinto Benavente</i>, very close to <i>Cine Ideal</i>. They are open until 5pm, but the banks close at 2pm (see below), so I recommend going before 1pm to get this all taken care of in one visit.</span><br />
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<ul><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pick up the appropriate form in the entry way (the one that says <i>antecedentes penales</i>).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Fill out the form. It’s basic info like name, address, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go to a local bank, there are a bunch near the Ministerio, such as the <i>Caja Madrid </i>on <i>Calle Carretas</i>, and pay 3,54 Euro. You need to have the form filled out before they will process the fee. You do not need to have an account at the bank to process this.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After the bank stamps your form, go back to the <i>Ministerio de Justicia</i> and take a number from the machine. Make sure you select <i>antecedentes penales</i> from the options on the screen and it will print the appropriate ticket.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When your number is called, go to the window. Have your passport with you, as you will need to show it to the representative. You will also need to state why you need the report. The representative will print the report.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then you sit again and wait for your number to be called again.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When it’s called the second time take the report and go to another desk. The person here will place an Apostille on the back side of the report.</span></li>
</ul><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And, wha la! You are in possession of proof that you are an upstanding citizen here in Spain.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-67090785881996549012019-01-24T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T11:54:33.044+01:00Making friends in Madrid (part II)<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I arrived in Madrid two months ago and already feel sad when I think about returning to France in August. There are many explanations for this (the warm weather, beautiful city, holidays and markets etc) but there was one very specific reason everything went well from day one: my first Spanish night out immediately introduced me to the people who became my friends here and gave me a feeling of confidence in a brand new, otherwise strange city. And the event responsible for this seamless integration was none other than the <i><b>Fiesta con AIL</b></i> in Madrid organized by my <a href="http://www.ailmadrid.com/en/1/1/home" target="_blank">Spanish academy, AIL Madrid</a>.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jdqVB3QN17E/XEGYzkt9OXI/AAAAAAAAKgM/yJ9bbms3AkE35hPFDEBabY3zvfztVCaPgCLcBGAs/s1600/make%2Bfriends%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jdqVB3QN17E/XEGYzkt9OXI/AAAAAAAAKgM/yJ9bbms3AkE35hPFDEBabY3zvfztVCaPgCLcBGAs/s320/make%2Bfriends%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You may be wondering, “<i>what’s that, ‘Fiesta con AIL?</i>” I would answer: certainly the most fun way to practice Spanish. Every Friday night at 10pm, AIL students, teachers, and team meet in a cool bar (the place changes every week) in order to spend time with each other and meet new people while enjoying some good drinks. This is by far the best way to meet people in the same situation as you; recently arrived in Madrid, looking to improve their Spanish skills, and open-minded/looking forward to making new friends.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I’m a prime example of how well it works: I set foot in Madrid on Wednesday and, thanks to the following Friday<i> Fiesta con AIL</i>, immediately had exciting Saturday night plans with new friends!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now, I’m a regular: there’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of the weekend than by gathering with your friends in a good atmosphere and meeting new people who will enrich your stay and allow you to practice your Spanish.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sj6BKbqVago/XEGY5TOZI-I/AAAAAAAAKgQ/uSI_mILGJe0XhFFm75l_KqvtKn8ZnQBVgCLcBGAs/s1600/make%2Bfriends%2B2.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sj6BKbqVago/XEGY5TOZI-I/AAAAAAAAKgQ/uSI_mILGJe0XhFFm75l_KqvtKn8ZnQBVgCLcBGAs/s320/make%2Bfriends%2B2.2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is the most anticipated event of the week for AIL students, making AIL an unique group of friends that offers so much more than just Spanish classes. If you’re feeling particularly enthusiastic, many students also go to the <i>Se Habla Español</i> <i>Intercambio </i>on Thursdays, which provides another great occasion to see familiar faces before <i>Fiesta con AIL</i> on Friday.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The bottom line is that I can’t recommend a better way to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AILMadridSpanish/" target="_blank">make friends and learn Spanish</a> at the same time than by becoming an AIL student, so I look forward to see you on your first Friday in Madrid! </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-31649737503377242122019-01-22T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T11:55:23.099+01:00Night buses in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Life at night is part of the appeal of Madrid, a time when the streets are often as busy as they are during the day, just with more laughter, shouting, and high heels. However, once the clock chimes 1:30, the trusty metro system turns into a proverbial pumpkin: if you aren’t on a train by this hour, there is a good chance there won’t be another one until 6 AM. Thus, understanding the <b>Night Buses</b> in Madrid. This system is an integral part of staying out late and getting home in one piece.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zz4NgmcSl34/XEChcn4-HiI/AAAAAAAAKf8/aN6wxgHS1F0tGe7A3J1nYLcw5HLW86esQCLcBGAs/s1600/night%2Bbus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1036" data-original-width="1600" height="258" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zz4NgmcSl34/XEChcn4-HiI/AAAAAAAAKf8/aN6wxgHS1F0tGe7A3J1nYLcw5HLW86esQCLcBGAs/s400/night%2Bbus.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are two types of night buses:</span><br />
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<ul><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>N-buses</b>, or <i>Los Búhos</i> (the Spanish word for owls – cute, huh?): These are 24 buses named with an <b>N</b> in front, all of which center their operations on the <i>Plaza de Cibeles</i> in the center of town and radiate out. These are a good choice if you have been out in the center and everyone in your group is heading home in different directions without prior planning; the various bus stops around the plaza clearly advertise where each <i>búho </i>goes and can help you find the one that will take you home. After your first trip on a <i>búho</i>, save that number: if the <b>N7</b> bus takes you home, start mentally noting the stops so you don’t always have to head back to <i>Cibeles </i>in order to catch the <b>N7 </b>home.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>L-buses</b>, or the Metro Replacement Lines: These buses run the approximate above-ground routes of the metros, stopping at or near as many metro stations as possible. These are good for a variety of reasons: they come every <b>15 minutes</b>, their names correspond to the <b>line number of the metro</b> they replace, and they don’t force you to trek to <i>Cibeles </i>if you are hanging out a long walk away from there. Be aware, your particular metro stop might have been cut from this route (for instance, I lived at the end of the line 1 metro for a while, and the L1 bus doesn't go all the way up there, and it is impossible to walk the difference.)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Obviously, taxis in this city are not that expensive, and it is always a good idea to cultivate friends in the middle of town who have comfy couches or extra bedrooms where you can sleep off a long evening of <i>fiesta</i>, but knowing your above-ground options allows you to prolong your night. A good option if you don’t have time to memorize a new bus route before a night out is to download the Android app that lets you look up bus routes near your location.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-29387866320117822592019-01-17T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T11:56:20.904+01:00My Neighborhood - Barrio de Las Letras (Huertas)<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have enjoyed living in our neighborhood in Madrid, <b><a href="https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=barrio+de+las+letras&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=univ&ei=RMtaTKONHcH-8Aayw9nXAg&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4&ved=0CDEQsAQwAw&biw=1280&bih=580&tbm=isch&gws_rd=ssl" target="_blank">Barrio de Las Letras</a></b> or the <b><a href="http://www.softguides.com/madrid_guide/maps/madrid-atocha-huertas.html" target="_blank">Neighborhood of the Writers</a></b>. There are so many things to think about when selecting where to live in Madrid. I can at least guide you through this wonderful historic district.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-doKQcc5hn-Y/XD4EjuJD5SI/AAAAAAAAKfs/nGMGZXUBup0mknPunfqulw__5Fq_10bAACLcBGAs/s1600/Barrio%2Bde%2Blas%2Bletras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="1024" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-doKQcc5hn-Y/XD4EjuJD5SI/AAAAAAAAKfs/nGMGZXUBup0mknPunfqulw__5Fq_10bAACLcBGAs/s320/Barrio%2Bde%2Blas%2Bletras.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We live in the heart of Madrid, and thus the oldest and arguably the most historic part as well. Bordered by Plaza de Sol, Prado, and the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern Art, this area is easily accessible by line 1 on the metro or about five different buslines that run up along in front of the Prado.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The buildings here were built as far back as the late 1500’s, but most have been gutted and updated inside, while the historic exteriors remain. For instance our building was built around the same period, but as a single family townhome, and then it wasn’t until the 1980s that it was converted into apartments. Pluses for this is that it has newer plumbing and electrical, and the original exterior walls are about a foot thick. The Cons for some of these buildings is that they are smaller apartments than in some of the newer neighborhoods, thus most apartments in our area are only one or two bedrooms.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our area is a very working/living neighborhood, in the sense that most of the owners in our building own businesses down below such as a hair salon or the drycleaners. It also a very traditional area in the sense that a lot of stores observe siestas, Spanish holidays and are closed on Sundays. The closest “true” supermercado is about a ten minute walk to Sol from our place, so I do most of my food shopping the true European way, by buying my meat in one store, fruit in another, and cheese in another shop.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another plus to this neighborhood is that all the narrow streets are closed off in the evening to traffic, only taxis, neighborhood residents, and emergency vehicles have a pass card to get through. This really makes the area conducive to outdoor cafes, and the typical 5pm Spanish stroll. Plus, it keeps it quiet in the late evenings. The exception being Huertas, of course, which is lined with bars, small clubs and traditional Spanish restaurants all with the black wrought iron that reminds me of the French Quarter in New Orleans.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Besides the wine bars and jazz clubs in the area that I have written about in other posts, there are also two historical sites that are worth checking out. One is a plaque in front of the home of the great Spanish writer <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miguel_de_Cervantes" target="_blank">Cervantes</a>, author of Don Quiote. Then down the street from his place is the playwright <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/casa+museo+lope+de+vega+madrid/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xfdc4100a9f063369?hl=en&dg=dbrw&newdg=1" target="_blank">Lope de Vega’s home</a>, which you can tour. (and well worth it)</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Barrio de Las Letras is great area to live in if you like to be near all the culture during the day and tapa hopping by night all with a mix of traditional and eccentric locals, as well as tourists. Good luck if you are in the process of finding an apartment in Madrid. </span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miguel_de_Cervantes" target="_blank">Cervante’s home</a></b> Corner of Calle Cervantes and Calle de Leon, 28014 Madrid, Spain</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/casa+museo+lope+de+vega+madrid/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xfdc4100a9f063369?hl=en&dg=dbrw&newdg=1" target="_blank">Lope de Vega’s home</a></b> Calle de Cervantes, 11, 28014 Madrid, Spain 914 299 216</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-1458934927859438002019-01-15T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T11:57:02.372+01:00Making new friends in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of the best and most difficult things about living abroad can be making new friends. Fortunately, there are plenty of clubs and groups in Madrid which will help even the shyest “<i>guiri</i>” to meet new friends. Here are some of my favourite resources to help you meet new friends, acquaintances, and even business contacts. Some of these groups charge a membership fee, so I’d recommend that you attend at least one event as a guest before joining to see if the group is right for you.</span><br />
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<ul><li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">The <b><a href="http://www.incmadrid.org/" target="_blank">INC of Madrid</a></b> (the International Newcomers Club) is a group which hosts weekly activities for expats living in Madrid. The full year membership will cost you 85 Euros, but they also offer a half year option for 50 Euros.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.meetup.com/">Meetup.com</a></b> helped me to meet great friends when I was new to NYC and has also helped me find people with similar interests here in Madrid. The best part is that if you don’t find the group you are looking for, you can make your own.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">The <a href="http://www.awcmadrid.com/" target="_blank"><b>AWC</b></a> (American Women’s Club) has been where I have met some of the most interesting and wise women. These ladies will offer a shoulder to lean on, give you guidance when you need it, and are a heck of a good time! There is an annual fee of 88 Euros and they offer various activities to keep you busy throughout the week.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.internations.org/" target="_blank">InterNations</a></b> is an invitation only web-based organization. The events I’ve attended consisted of a diverse crowd, each time there were between 200-300 attendees in a centrally located venue.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">If you have little kids and want to meet other parents in Madrid, check out <b><a href="http://playgroupmadrid.tripod.com/" target="_blank">Sticky Fingers Playgroup</a></b>. They meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning at a local park.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">Globiles is another invitation only group which caters to business professionals. It is a new venture which helps connect international professionals who are currently living abroad or would like to make the big move.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.americanclubofmadrid.com/" target="_blank">The American Club of Madrid</a></b> is a good networking source for established professionals. There is an annual fee of 100 Euros, but check with your company to see if they are already a member. They host monthly events and various special occasion events per year.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">Volunteer your time at your local school or check <b><a href="http://www.idealist.org/">Idealist.org</a></b>. They have volunteer opportunities listed in several countries, including Spain.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">Practice your Spanish. If you want to practice a new language with others, check out the language intercambio, <b><a href="http://madridbabel.weebly.com/">Madrid Babel</a></b>. Each Wednesday and Sunday evening, you can find plenty of people to practice various languages with.</span></li>
<li style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;">Get some fresh air! There is a fantastic <b><a href="http://www.hikingmadrid.com/" target="_blank">hiking group in Madrid</a></b> for people of all skill levels. The hikes take place on the weekends and offer a unique alternative to the usual crowded bar events.</span></li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-23858652410688183912018-12-27T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:00:01.590+01:00Vintage Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When I arrived in Madrid I was surprised not only by its young and international vibe. The huge mix of cultures and the abundance of the trendy spots found in the Spanish capital amazed me. Like in many global cities, people there take full advantage of Madrid Vintage trends, and not just in hip areas.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So if you’re looking for something different, you can find this particular style in many shops. Clothing stores, cafes and restaurants, bars, etc: Madrid’s vintage world is a cool, fun way to discover the city. You’ll enjoy your time here!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With that in mind, here are a few of my favorite spots that I deeply recommend visiting during your stay!</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The #1 spot for vintage clothing: <a href="http://www.pepitaisdead.es/" target="_blank">Pepita is dead</a></span></h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Located near Atocha railway station, this shop specializes in vintage clothing for everyone. If you’re looking for any trendy piece dating back to anywhere between the 50s to 90s, then you’ll find your paradise!</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A sunglasses museum as never seen before: <a href="http://www.gafavintage.com/" target="_blank">Gafa Vintage</a></span></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Mnq7tOjfbo/XBODxpodVJI/AAAAAAAAKe0/NhOeF-ZWvoE8KwYrQuZEKfuqWPz5a1-lACLcBGAs/s1600/06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Mnq7tOjfbo/XBODxpodVJI/AAAAAAAAKe0/NhOeF-ZWvoE8KwYrQuZEKfuqWPz5a1-lACLcBGAs/s320/06.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Located by Opera metro station, this totally vintage shop will submerge you in history up to the eyes! This pretty jewel for all hipsters and people suffering from nostalia is actually more than just a boutique: we can consider it as a museum, thanks to its exhibitions of cool shades! There you can achieve any of your wildest dreams by wearing the same trendy piece as your throwback idols.</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A very original and trendy market: <a href="https://mercadodemotores.es/" target="_blank">El Mercado de Motores</a></span></h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We all know that in Madrid there is a strong market culture, but this one is bit more original: it takes place every month between the wagons and locomotives of the railway museum and is one of the best, most successful free leisure alternatives. There, vendors sell decorative items, books, vinyl records, recycled furniture, classic bikes, handmade product…</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tasty, straight forward food in a vintage environment: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/naifmadrid" target="_blank">Naif</a></span></h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the corner of the very active Plaza de San Ildefonso in Malasaña, you will find this small but trendy restaurant that serves hamburgers, sandwiches and a little kindness to the many modern locals who continually select it as a meeting point. Vintage decorative items and a chill atmosphere enhance tasty Mexican dishes or simple drinks!</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A strange and curious coffee shop with an antique feel: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePassengerMadrid" target="_blank">The Passenger</a></span></h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is one of the most curious places in Madrid. When you enter into this bar, you will discover you’re really on a train. The dark wood chairs are spacious and comfortable and screens hang on the wall to emulate windows from which you can admire landscape passing by outside… all aboard!</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A cosy and well designed bar: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LaPacaCafeBar" target="_blank">La Paca</a></span></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rgm5XhHK8KY/XBODQPKaExI/AAAAAAAAKes/Fq2KCFZEZKoUswno8rDqoJgxvP-YdgV9QCLcBGAs/s1600/05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="236" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rgm5XhHK8KY/XBODQPKaExI/AAAAAAAAKes/Fq2KCFZEZKoUswno8rDqoJgxvP-YdgV9QCLcBGAs/s320/05.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">This small vintage café of the very center of Madrid (Tribunal/Gran Via), hosts all kinds of different events events thanks to the infinite creativity of the owner: small markets, shows, artists exhibitions, presentations, miniconcerts…The majority of the clients are young, modern and cultivated!</span></div><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-60742045389062504112018-12-25T11:10:00.000+01:002019-02-11T16:27:02.482+01:00Moving to Madrid: Making friends<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So! You’ve made it to Madrid. Now what? Whether you’ve moved here for work or studies, everybody has one thing in common: everything’s new! The culture, the streets, and (most of all) the people are all unfamiliar and, sometimes, it can make you feel a little bit isolated or lonely. Fortunately, Madrid is also one of the friendliest cities and has infinite opportunities to meet new people! But one of the main think you’re moving to Madrid: Making Friends. Here are a few of the best options (in my opinion):</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">The International Way</span></span></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RyHpct4QCGo/XBOBZ7-lGTI/AAAAAAAAKeg/dTxmvCxxgFo8I-8ItkF6MrhzJWdTTui_wCLcBGAs/s1600/04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="648" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RyHpct4QCGo/XBOBZ7-lGTI/AAAAAAAAKeg/dTxmvCxxgFo8I-8ItkF6MrhzJWdTTui_wCLcBGAs/s320/04.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My best experience meeting people and making friends was through my Spanish classes (which you may be able to see some enthusiasm about in my previous articles). Through my classes at <a href="http://www.ailmadrid.com/en/1/1/home.html" target="_blank">AIL Madrid</a>, I discovered a community of international people who, though from all parts of the world, shared my enthusiasm and interest in Spain and Spanish language and culture. They also understood what it was like to move here without knowing anyone and those who had been here a while had some great advice and insights to offer me. Aside from that, the academy itself offers really fun cultural activities and hosts a big party with students and staff alike every Friday (called Noche de Copas). In this way, you feel like you have a friend group and an active schedule from day one. For me, this one takes the cake!</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">The Guiri Way</span></span></h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another way to feel immediately comfortable is to connect with your fellow guiris (foreigner and, in this case, English speaking). This might not improve your Spanish or give you the feeling of embarking on adventure, but it will definitely give you confidence and a loving community right here in Madrid. A few places to meet other guiris are through facebook groups (for auxiliaries, au pairs, Erasmus, entrepreneurs etc) or at some of the classic guiri hangouts (such as J&J books, la bicicleta, and pretty much any bar in Malasaña).</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">The At-Home Way</span></span></h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sharing an apartment with other people can seem great or daunting, depending on who you are, but it will always improve your social life. This is especially true if you live with Spaniards, who are sure to introduce you to all their friends and adopt you as one of their own. If you choose to live with other foreigners, this can also be a great introduction to the guiri community. Long live the Flat Mate Solution!</span><br />
<h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">The Ripped Way</span></span></h3><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My final suggestion for meeting people is a classic no matter where you live: join the gym! While not guaranteed to make you friends, this will put you in an energetic environment with lots of other people from your neighborhood. Overcome your fears and strike up a conversation; you never know where your best friendships might bloom!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-22248082372428109402018-12-20T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-11T16:28:18.938+01:00Madrid's fascinating museums<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Museo del Prado</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eu1yxSBxh6c/XBN_7ynG9xI/AAAAAAAAKeU/WHWdO7fDWLMcRlphIjj7o_43YXmyS8OMgCLcBGAs/s1600/03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="926" data-original-width="1440" height="205" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eu1yxSBxh6c/XBN_7ynG9xI/AAAAAAAAKeU/WHWdO7fDWLMcRlphIjj7o_43YXmyS8OMgCLcBGAs/s320/03.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Museo del Prado holds the most complete collection of Spanish art in the world. It is famous for its wonderful collection of Goya (“Los fusilamientos de 3 de Mayo”), Velázquez (”Las Meninas”) as well as many other paintings and sculptures by influential artists. It houses one of the world’s finest collections of European art which at the moment adds up to around 8600 paintings and 700 sculptures. Well worth a visit.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; text-align: start;">Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía</span></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A museum of contemporary Spanish and international art dating from the end of the 19th century to current times. It is famous for the painting “Guernica” by Picasso, in addition to a number of works from Dalí, Juan Gris, and Miró.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Museo Thyssen</span></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A museum of both ancient and modern art dating from the Middle Ages all the way through to Pop Art from the 1980’s! It boasts a wide variety of styles: Italian primitive, German Renaissance, American painting from the 19th century, impressionism, German expressionism, Russian constructivism and many more!</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Museo Arqueológico Nacional</span></span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E-rw_v_vUrQ/XBN_daoRu_I/AAAAAAAAKeM/JdZs8irLfw4HbCxEi528ZMF2fgFKOAmDACLcBGAs/s1600/02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="663" height="234" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E-rw_v_vUrQ/XBN_daoRu_I/AAAAAAAAKeM/JdZs8irLfw4HbCxEi528ZMF2fgFKOAmDACLcBGAs/s320/02.png" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Learn about objects a nd artifacts that have come from different Spanish towns as well as from Mediterranean countries. These artifacts date back to ancient times and with help from rigorous, attractive, interesting and critical information, you can learn about the meaning behind them all. It is a great way to learn and understand more about the rich history of Spain and the Mediterranean.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales</span></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A perfect museum for kids as well as adults that proudly demonstrates the world’s natural heritage with a huge collection of specimens. Here are just a few examples: minerals, seaweeds, plants, animals as well as utensils and weapons from a number of different cultures and times. There are more than 6 million specimens in the museum!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-49839611637683480392018-12-18T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:01:15.827+01:00Why is everyone queuing outside Doña Manolita?<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Around Christmas time, you will more than likely have noticed a large queue outside <i>Doña Manolita</i> every day. We suspect you may not know your lottery outlets by name yet, so for clarification <i>Doña Manolita</i> is the lottery vendor near Sol on <i>Calle del Carmen</i>. It’s renowned as the luckiest place to buy your ticket for <i>La Lotería de Navidad</i>! If you’re going to buy a Christmas Lottery ticket we strongly recommend that you withstand the queue and buy it from there.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kXjxugQjweU/XBN-NX8krOI/AAAAAAAAKeA/Sy2lgi2sLdUPRd_zzi6MVC2pDQKo8VHfQCLcBGAs/s1600/01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="768" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kXjxugQjweU/XBN-NX8krOI/AAAAAAAAKeA/Sy2lgi2sLdUPRd_zzi6MVC2pDQKo8VHfQCLcBGAs/s400/01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Every year, starting around mid-November, thousands of madrileños queue up on <i>Calle del Carmen</i> to buy a ticket for a chance to win <i>El Gordo</i> (literally, the fat one), which is the largest single draw lottery prize in the world! The €200 tickets are available for individuals, but the true essence of the <i>Lotería de Navidad</i> is in the participation that arises from the sub-tickets. A company or group of people would choose to purchase a ticket, with each contributor paying €20 for a 10% stake in the winnings. You can buy your sub-tickets almost anywhere (a shop, a bar, your workplace or even a motor way service station) but before you do make sure you ask if it was originally bought from <i>Doña Manolita</i> . After all, a third of winning tickets have been traced back to that one lottery outlet.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The first ever <i>Lotería de Navidad</i> took place in 1812, when interestingly, it was set up as a way of increasing public funds without it effecting the contributors! The lottery has been running every year since 1812, surviving times of war, crisis and even through Franco’s era, where the numbers all ended with a 36 or 39 to commemorate the Civil War. It is now the second longest running lottery in the world and it’s broadcasted every year on the 22nd of December, on <i>Radio Nacional de España</i>.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Despite the number of years it’s been running, the popularity of this lottery hasn’t faltered; it continues to grow, with 98% of adults entering the draw in 2016! With any form of gambling, participants have their lucky rituals and the <i>Lotería de Navidad</i> is certainly no different. In fact, besides lucky charms, and other superstitions that individuals all over the world may have, the <i>Lotería de Navidad</i> has many stereotypical lucky traits that contributors share. For example, in Madrid, you may notice that many people enter the ticket shop with their right foot first and then ask if the lottery ticket can be picked out with their right hand. Others include passing your ticket across a pregnant woman’s stomach, or over the head of a bald man!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you’re in Madrid over the Christmas period, head to <i>Doña Manolita</i> for a chance to win and above all, a chance to share the excitement that flows through Madrid at 11.57pm on the 22nd of December!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>¡Buena suerte!</i></span></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-21037871468036513912018-11-29T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:03:47.252+01:00Madrid books that I dig<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am a travel book junkie. Oh and I am also a planner. If I am even considering a vacation for 3 years down the road…I will have all the appropriate books for it as soon as the thought pops in my head. If work sends me to a destination that I have not been to before then a travel book is hastily purchased and every waking moment outside of work responsibilities is spent “experiencing” said new destination. The quantity of travel books that made the journey to Madrid is alarming and a topic not discussed between Will and I because I am sure the cost of shipping my “collection” outweighed its value…by a lot. As you’re planning your move to Madrid [and any outside travel] you might also find some of these sources useful. Happy Reading!</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7MLO_kwofA/W9wjp2AMdyI/AAAAAAAAKd0/hB_L9qYlU-0ydplGhV3uKXUNL52Qp8mFQCLcBGAs/s1600/08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="1600" height="262" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7MLO_kwofA/W9wjp2AMdyI/AAAAAAAAKd0/hB_L9qYlU-0ydplGhV3uKXUNL52Qp8mFQCLcBGAs/s400/08.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">LIVE</span></b><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1566916666?ie=UTF8&tag=guiguitomad-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1566916666" target="_blank">Living Abroad in Spain</a> – This book is good for the nitty gritty. Need to know what steps to take to bring your pet into Spain? Concerned about how Spain will react to your race and religion? It covers many of the logistics you’ll be concerned with but don’t rely on this source solely as I feel its pretty high level given that it has to cover logistics for all areas within Spain. The author is American so its safe to report that the intended audience is North American – or at least English speakers.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">TRAVEL</span></b><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rick Steves’ Spain [With Pull-Out Map] [RICK STEVES SPAIN-2009] – Whether you’re already a Rick Steve’s follower or not, this is a great book. With his guidance you find yourself often in with the locals, eating regional specialities at a decent price. His books always give helpful regional/population tidbits in an easy-to-understand language which makes the reading enjoyable.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1741048958?ie=UTF8&tag=guiguitomad-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1741048958" target="_blank">Madrid (City Guide)</a> – Very extensive and very helpful. Sites, restaurants, bars…etc are conveniently broken down by neighborhood. Information on Madrid is thorough – so much so that it can serve as a semi-decent relocation guide as well.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1740593928?ie=UTF8&tag=guiguitomad-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1740593928" target="_blank">Lonely Planet Madrid Condensed</a> – Great pocket size guide to stuff in the purse and take around as your exploring all the main sites in Madrid. Great for getting acquainted with Madrid.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1400007771?ie=UTF8&tag=guiguitomad-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1400007771" target="_blank">Fodor’s See It Spain, 3rd Edition</a> – The book itself is aesthetically pleasing. It covers all of Spain and therefore only provides the most basic and most popular of information on sites. However once it gave me a great tidbit on how to find a discounted room at a upscale hotel in Valencia and it worked!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/140001879X?ie=UTF8&tag=guiguitomad-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=140001879X" target="_blank">Fodor’s Madrid’s 25 Best, 4th Edition</a> – Another good pocket guide for the basics with some good walking tours. Read this one before you go out but then take the Lonely Planet Madrid condensed with you for more detail.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-10085763143958308522018-11-27T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:04:14.824+01:00Jazz Clubs in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My husband and I have always enjoyed listening to jazz where ever we’ve lived. So when we moved to Madrid, we learned there were no shortages of clubs here. We ended up renting an apartment from our friends who live in New York. One of them happens to be the one and only <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lou_Marini" target="_blank">Lou Marini</a> who was the orginal sax player for Saturday Night Live and <a href="http://www.bluesbrotherscentral.com/musicians/" target="_blank">The Blues Brothers</a>. Needless to say, he has introduced us to the scene here. One of his favorite places is <a href="http://www.cafecentralmadrid.com/" target="_blank">Cafe Central</a>, which is just off Plaza Santa Ana. This is a larger club with a full bar and food menu, and jazz seven nights a week. The entrance is usually between 10-15 euros depending on the caliber of the group, and whether you go during the week or weekend. The show usually starts at 10pm, and goes till at least midnight. If you go on the weekends, though, get there early the line starts out the door at nine.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-04bfrSOqXxY/W9weyBZV70I/AAAAAAAAKdY/xJSUgn_5XtgvFxn-Wmhv2TvWtbgE28i4QCLcBGAs/s1600/07%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-04bfrSOqXxY/W9weyBZV70I/AAAAAAAAKdY/xJSUgn_5XtgvFxn-Wmhv2TvWtbgE28i4QCLcBGAs/s400/07%2B-%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another good larger jazz club is <a href="http://www.clamores.net/" target="_blank">Clamores</a> near Metro Iglesia. This club has a lot of good blues and jazz groups come through, mainly local groups, but during the <a href="http://www.festivaldejazzmadrid.com/" target="_blank">Madrid Jazz Fesitval</a> in November they host groups from all of the world as well. Red House is a group we see from time to time here that includes Lou Marini as well as four of his friends. You can also call ahead to reserve a table.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PpYyncAw1VQ/W9we2GosKJI/AAAAAAAAKdc/BuNT9ipMNJUdC3k3Kinz8lHK11ky3PkJQCLcBGAs/s1600/07%2B-%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="731" height="285" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PpYyncAw1VQ/W9we2GosKJI/AAAAAAAAKdc/BuNT9ipMNJUdC3k3Kinz8lHK11ky3PkJQCLcBGAs/s400/07%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two other smaller clubs happen to be right around the corner from us in Barrio de Las Letras on Huertas St. <a href="http://cafepopulart.com/" target="_blank">Cafe Populart</a> has about 20 tables and has great local jazz quartets and sextets most nights starting at 10:30pm. This is a great place to stop by for even an hour since it is entrada libre or enter free, and the drinks are reasonably priced. Down the street is one of our favorite little jazz enclaves called <a href="https://www.lafidula.es/" target="_blank">La Fidula</a>. This place reminds me of Birdland in New York, a nice small club where the tables and booths surround the stage. They have awesome jam sessions on Sunday nights where as my husband puts it all the heavys come to play. Most shows start around 10:30 or 11:00pm, but some nights they have two shows. You can listen for free at the bar, or there is at least a two drink minimum for a table closer to the stage. Check their website, though, for showtimes and entrance fees.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsfk4s1_bsQ/W9we7Xsx7UI/AAAAAAAAKdg/kajjLllvqWg9lB-inDdlB5zTDPdJAqBvwCLcBGAs/s1600/07%2B-%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsfk4s1_bsQ/W9we7Xsx7UI/AAAAAAAAKdg/kajjLllvqWg9lB-inDdlB5zTDPdJAqBvwCLcBGAs/s400/07%2B-%2B3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know there are other great jazz clubs in Madrid, this just happens to be the clubs we have come across. If you have personally been to one of these clubs or any other great jazz clubs in Madrid, please share them in the comments section.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Details:</span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Clamores</b> Calle Alburquerque, 14, Madrid, 91 4457938 Metro Bilbao</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Populart</b> Calle Huertas, 22 Madrid, 91 429 84 07</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Cafe Central</b> Plaza de Angel, 10, Madrid 91 369 41 43</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>La Fidula</b> Calle de las Huertas, 57, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Madrid</span></li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-48779289659666489042018-11-22T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:06:17.067+01:00Going to the Doctor in Spanish<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last week, like many other people, I was really sick and completely bedridden for almost an entire week. After two years in Spain, it was finally time to go to the doctor for the first time. Luckily for me, Raúl took care of finding the number of the nearest Sanitas doctor. This was great, except for the fact that it did not occur to him that it might make sense for me to see an English speaking doctor. I did not have the strength to undo what was already done nor could I fathom waiting any longer to get treated, so I sucked it up and made the appointment.</span><br />
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</span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--ck710fWOag/W9wb05Lh-sI/AAAAAAAAKdM/qJmgBoYzJ_kfIthN8ZH8OHcafjWwIvsfQCLcBGAs/s1600/06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1053" data-original-width="1600" height="262" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--ck710fWOag/W9wb05Lh-sI/AAAAAAAAKdM/qJmgBoYzJ_kfIthN8ZH8OHcafjWwIvsfQCLcBGAs/s400/06.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While the experience was positive overall, there are a few things I would have done differently to prepare myself if I could do it all over again. Even though my Spanish is strong, I still felt a bit lost. For better or worse, I am not used to discussing flu-like symptoms in Spanish, so those words just were not part of my vocabulary. I tried to tell the doctor that my ears hurt by saying “<i>me duelen las orejas</i>” but apparently that direct translation from English is just not a correct way of describing this symptom in Spanish. I quickly reverted to hand gestures, and before long the doctor did as well since it was clear to him that I was just not following. Looking back, my advice would be as follows:</span><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As a heads up, when you call to make the appointment, they are going to ask you what type of doctor you want to see. I did not know what to say (a <i>doctor </i>doctor, I was thinking). Try to have this one figured out before you call. In the end, I needed <i>Medicina General</i>, which makes sense in retrospect, but I have never had to make such a distinction when calling to make a doctor’s appointment back home.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Write down a translated list of your key symptoms using an English-Spanish dictionary before you go. This is especially critical because I have noted there are several “false friends” in the health arena, such as <i>constipada</i> (hint: it has nothing to do with your digestion).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do not hesitate to ask the doctor to repeat himself several times; at the end of the day this is our health we are talking about. I left the doctor thinking that he prescribed me some sort of throat gargle that I needed to mix with hot water twice a day, only to find when I went to the pharmacy that he really prescribed me anti-biotic pills. I still have no idea how I got so mixed up.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you are on any other medications before you go, have the names written down along with that they are and what they do, translated into Spanish. The doctor is clearly going to ask you this, and if you are not sure, for example, what the words for insulin and what it treats are in Spanish, you could be putting yourself at risk.</span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All in all, this experience was not nearly as scary as it sounds, and I am lucky that I only had a throat infection (I think?) and not something more serious. The doctor could not be any nicer and more patient, and I am happy to report that the prescribed treatment worked and I feel so much better. Although I am proof positive that this can be done successfully without making these advanced preparations, in the end I think they can help quite a bit.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-74906312943318874852018-11-20T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:07:33.516+01:00Holiday Lights in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In just 3 days the city will finally turn on the <a href="https://www.esmadrid.com/agenda/iluminacion-navidena?utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.es%2F" target="_blank">holiday lights</a>, after what seemed like weeks of unlit lights hanging in the streets. Each street has a different theme, from boxes of presents on Calle Goya, to snowflakes on Calle Mayor, to giant chandeliers on Jose Ortega y Gasset. The lights will be up all this month, and extend into the first week of January, so take advantage of a dry night (what is with all this rain lately?) and grab your honey or some friends and take a jolly walk through Madrid to enjoy the lights.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WIgEzgfN-Ps/W9waOPM7WpI/AAAAAAAAKco/dbS2Xdte5REhqGGAIcsMboHnvQYqSrn8QCLcBGAs/s1600/05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1280" height="292" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WIgEzgfN-Ps/W9waOPM7WpI/AAAAAAAAKco/dbS2Xdte5REhqGGAIcsMboHnvQYqSrn8QCLcBGAs/s400/05.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">While on your walk, you may want to visit one of the many Christmas markets that are set up throughout the city. There are some especially for kids, like “<a href="http://www.fiestas-de-madrid.com/cortylandia.htm" target="_blank">Cortylandia</a>” in Plaza Felipe II. Corte Ingles runs this of course, so don’t be surprised if after enjoying some kiddie rides your children want to scour the store for pricey toys.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A great market for enjoying the holidays is the large annual market in the <a href="http://www.gomadrid.com/sights/plaza-mayor.html" target="_blank">Plaza Mayor</a>. There are plenty of stalls selling holiday decorations and collectibles. You can buy a Christmas tree here, including those small apartment friendly ones, along with wreaths and other evergreen decorations. There is a carousel for the kids (and adults. Hey, why not?) and of course tons of lights. The lights in the Plaza Mayor are giant circular orbs that hang from the sky. Festive, yes, but also sort of like experiencing a UFO invasion.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Surprisingly, there were no food stalls at the main Christmas market. Upon arriving I was searching for some semblance of holiday fare (my mind instantly brought me back to my last <i>gluhwein </i>and <i>kartoffelpuffer </i>experience in Germany), but this market was really more for presents and decorations. I did find a stand that sells nuts (the kind they carmelize) in the little Christmas market just south of Sol in front of Cine Ideal. And of course there are lots of bars and restaurants in this area to top off the night with some wine or hot chocolate.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Enjoy the holiday season, everyone!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-59876279351445250012018-11-15T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:08:29.421+01:00Where to get Thanksgiving fixings in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It’s almost Thanksgiving, or should I say, <i>el día de acción de gracias</i>? For the Americans out there, this is understandably a hard time to be away from home. Ah, Thanksgiving. Family gatherings, grandma’s homemade pies, football games on the television, the Macy’s parade, and a viewing of <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0038650/" target="_blank">It’s a Wonderful Life</a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032138/" target="_blank">The Wizard of Oz</a>, or, my all time favorite holiday movie, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0085334/" target="_blank">A Christmas Story</a>. And, the best thing about Thanksgiving, the <b>FOOD</b>!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Looking for a piece of home? Here are some tips on how you can make your own Thanksgiving here in Madrid.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Pumpkin and other yumminess</b> – There are two American stores in Madrid. One is appropriately called the American Store. The other is Taste of America. I took a little trip over to Taste of America yesterday to see what this place is all about.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TzDt9BwaYSo/W9wanDUSGoI/AAAAAAAAKc8/hyNZBqgODdwXCe9O_6TOvAiQZ40ZYlpHgCLcBGAs/s1600/04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TzDt9BwaYSo/W9wanDUSGoI/AAAAAAAAKc8/hyNZBqgODdwXCe9O_6TOvAiQZ40ZYlpHgCLcBGAs/s400/04.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can get many essential Thanksgiving ingredients here, including brown sugar and canned pumpkin. Don’t be fooled by the two cans of pumpkin here in this image – there were boxes of canned pumpkin just waiting to be stocked. They have marshmallows for <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/candied-yams/Detail.aspx" target="_blank">candied yams</a>, should you want to show your new European friends just how versatile marshmallows can be. And, although not necessary for Thanksgiving, if anyone is craving SPAM (does anyone really eat SPAM?), cheddar cheese in a bottle, or Jim Beam wing sauce, rest assured you can buy these at Taste of America as well, along with enough <a href="http://www.duncanhines.com/" target="_blank">Duncan Hines</a> to rot your teeth right out of your mouth. Although the size of a 7/11 (a teeny 7/11), it carries some much needed American products for this time of year. There is some sticker shock (6 Euro for a box of cake mix?), but sometimes it’s just worth it.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Veggies and Sides</b> – Your local grocer should carry most of what you need. The <a href="https://11870.com/pro/mercado-ventas/map" target="_blank">Mercado de Ventas</a> has actual corn on the cob, along with pretty much every other vegetable you could ever want.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Basic vocab list for the market: sweet potatoes (<i>batatas</i>), green beans (<i>judías verdes</i>), corn (<i>maíz</i>), pumpkin (<i>calabaza</i>), potatoes (<i>patatas</i>), onion (<i>cebolla</i>).</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Turkey</b> – the staple of Thanksgiving. We are surrounded by meat in Spain, yet somehow turkey always seems to be left out. Rest assured, there are bird options here in Madrid. You can order a turkey from a <i>pollería</i>, or you can buy one at a market, like the Mercado de Ventas. I was there earlier this week and at the sight of me the men behind the meat counter started shouting about my upcoming <i>fiesta</i>, and how I should buy a <i>pavo </i>from them. There were a bunch of turkeys right there, ready to go.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Measuring </b>– Avoid measuring disasters by converting to metric correctly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy cooking and happy Thanksgiving!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-57141986918654038222018-11-13T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:09:00.639+01:00Five ways Madrid has changed me<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After six years, it’s strange to look back on my first months in Madrid and try to remember what they were like. For one thing, back then my life revolved around balancing my Master’s program with going out too much, whereas now it’s all about paying the bills and day-to-day living. In addition, the fact that I came here straight out of college means I’ve spent my entire adult life in Madrid. Things that strike newcomers as strange, mystifying, or even absurd, seem totally normal to me now.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But there are a few things that spring to mind when I examine how my attitudes and overall Spanish experience have changed over the years—apart from the fact that I recently married a Spaniard and now have honest-to-God <i>suegros</i>. That’s a big one, but the rest are a bit more subtle. Here are five ways Madrid has changed me.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>I eat a lot more</b></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I’m not talking about quantity; in fact, in terms of portions, I eat a lot less. Rather, I’m much more adventurous about trying things than when I first came, and now enjoy things I swore I would never put in my mouth. <b><i>Morcilla</i></b>? Get in my belly. <b>Octopus</b>? You better hide, little cephalopod. <b>Pigs’ ears</b>? Bring ‘em on (in small quantities). I’ve even learned to love <i>jamón</i>-flavored potato chips, and the world of marisco gets broader every day.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EKX7zJwC8Lc/W9waWVuaqdI/AAAAAAAAKcs/tbFtsBb-emszbptddjke4_jsy4fvov-MgCLcBGAs/s1600/03%2B-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EKX7zJwC8Lc/W9waWVuaqdI/AAAAAAAAKcs/tbFtsBb-emszbptddjke4_jsy4fvov-MgCLcBGAs/s400/03%2B-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are a few things I will probably never get into, like sheeps’ brains, or tuna on pizza. And I’m still not really good with raw tomatoes, but I’m working on that.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Buying things has become and adventure</b></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here’s how I used to shop for pretty much anything:</span><br />
<ol><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Go to Target.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Purchase item.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Purchase a million other unnecessary items because they have everything.</span></li>
</ol><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here’s how I now shop for anything other than clothes and everyday groceries:</span><br />
<ol><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Figure out what the thing I need is called in Spanish. Scour the Web to find a few different versions in case the shopkeeper doesn’t know what I’m talking about. Also look up any related descriptive vocabulary.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Try to think of the place where I’m most likely to find the thing I need, and scour the Web for any potential specialty stores.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Get on the metro and go to the first option. If it’s a small shop, make sure to say hello. Tell the clerk what I need. If they don’t know what I’m talking about, describe it. Wait for them to tell me they don’t have it. Ask if they have any ideas where I might be able to find it. Make sure to say goodbye.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Repeat Step 3 ten times or so. Become slightly obsessed.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Either give up and decide I can do with out it, or bask in triumph when I finally find it by tweeting, calling my husband, and perhaps doing a victory dance.</span></li>
</ol><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">Walking down the street stresses me out</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a huge pet peeve for me, so I could easily rant about people who stop in the middle of the sidewalk to chat or check email on their phones (really? you can’t move over to the side?); or people who expect you to move so they can ride by on their bikes (hello, <i>empty street</i> where vehicles are <i>supposed </i>to go!); or people who don’t clean up after their dogs (I don’t care if it’s good luck—it’s gross). Heck, I could even go off on the inconvenience of parking posts. But I will restrain myself.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mvAxJNgtu5A/W9wagSIs1ZI/AAAAAAAAKc0/Rr1ROypjOKkYuewcjzeDWxwRUNx-kK_4wCLcBGAs/s1600/03%2B-%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="783" data-original-width="1184" height="263" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mvAxJNgtu5A/W9wagSIs1ZI/AAAAAAAAKc0/Rr1ROypjOKkYuewcjzeDWxwRUNx-kK_4wCLcBGAs/s400/03%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spaniards love to complain about “<i>las prisas de Madrid</i>”—how everyone’s always rushing around in this city. Why is it, then, that I’m constantly yelling at people in my head while trying to walk down the street? I remind myself that the <i>paseo </i>is part of the culture here, but I can’t help it. I don’t walk to walk. I walk to get somewhere.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know I’m not alone in this; just the other day my friend Susan was complaining about the same thing. “You would think that after all these years I’d be used to it,” she said, referring to <i>Madrileños</i>’ apparent inability to move to allow for passing fellow pedestrians. “But it bothers me now more than ever.” Me too, Susan, me too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I’ve learned how to loosen up</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For all the stress of shopping and walking in Madrid there’s a leisurely meal or relaxed glass of <i>vino </i>with friends to remind me why I love it here. The easygoing lifestyle is one of my favorite things about living in Spain and it has come to permeate all parts of my life, from running errands—I’m much more patient about waiting in lines and have learned to work around businesses’ weird schedules—to sense of humor—I’m way less concerned about keeping it PC. [Side note: Don’t get me wrong, certain comments and attitudes still appall me. (Seriously? You can’t find any actual black men to play Balthazar at Christmastime??)]</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The big one, of course, is free time. I’m practically forced to take it easy on Sundays because there’s nothing else to do that day. Everything’s closed. No errands possible. Okay, that’s changed over the years, but the attitude sank in before the stores started opening on Sundays (yes, I’ve been here that long), and the mindset stuck. Best are the long weekend lunches that turn into <i>carajillos </i>at a café or cañas on a terraza, run into a tapas dinner, and end up in a bar at 2 am. I love those days.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span> <b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Spain has taught me to prioritize</b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Related to long lunches and relaxing Sundays, perhaps the attitude I’ve most come to appreciate is Spaniards’ work-life balance. At first, my American upbringing made it hard to come to terms with the fact that I’ve pieced together an income, rather than having a steady job and a set career track. But I make enough to pay the bills, go out with my friends, and travel a couple of times a year. I never feel bad about taking vacations—which is good because my husband, true to Spanish form, would never dream of giving them up. I’ve learned that I really don’t need the newest, fastest, shiniest things that the US always told me I did (not to mention the low-carbiest, fresh-smellingest, double-dutiest…). And you know what? When I walk down the street, look around me, and reflect on my life here, I always think, “<b>I’m so happy</b>”.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-32948357943887008712018-11-08T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:09:30.347+01:00English movie theaters in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How’s your Spanish? If it’s like mine, it’s not particularly great. For me, seeing a movie in Spanish, without English subtitles, is more work than entertainment. And that’s what the movies are to me, entertainment. I want to sit back, relax, and start eating the giant Milke chocolate bar I’ve smuggled into the theater.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are some good options for English movies here in Madrid. The largest of the English theaters is <a href="http://www.yelmocines.es/cartelera/madrid/yelmo-cines-ideal" target="_blank">Cine Ideal</a>, located near Sol in Plaza San Jacinto Benavente. The complex is large and hosts the latest films, conveniently in V.O.S. (version original subtitulada – which is most often English). You can also purchase tickets online. Cine Ideal also features movies in 3D. Before the holidays I saw the latest Narnia in 3D here, and although the film was just ok I did enjoy wearing those goofy 3D glasses.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A1g9QaTiFjI/W9wPiZ9J_LI/AAAAAAAAKcc/ruJWR5mG_ZYPJBBAfTvG1xKg1mBA0ngBwCLcBGAs/s1600/02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1185" data-original-width="1600" height="295" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A1g9QaTiFjI/W9wPiZ9J_LI/AAAAAAAAKcc/ruJWR5mG_ZYPJBBAfTvG1xKg1mBA0ngBwCLcBGAs/s400/02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another great English movie option is the <a href="http://www.cinesrenoir.com/" target="_blank">Renoir</a> theaters. They have locations all over the city (and Spain), and although the theaters are smaller they usually have a least one English movie playing. The Renoir theater closest to me is Renoir Retiro, which has 4 theaters and usually 1-2 are English movies. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These two theaters are my favorite English theaters here in Madrid. Cine Ideal is perfect for a giant selection of new movies. It does get crowded on the weekends so do come early to get your tickets. On the other side, Renoir Retiro is quiet, small, and very close to my apartment, which makes me love it even more.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Note: Some theaters require you to choose your seat when you purchase your ticket, so if you are going with a group try and purchase your tickets together to ensure you get to sit as a group.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy viewing!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-34828513046531099512018-11-06T12:00:00.000+01:002019-02-07T12:10:51.544+01:00Getting Around Madrid with Very Little Spanish<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I took Spanish ten years ago, but since then I haven’t had the opportunity to practice, until now. So, my first couple of months I struggled to get used the idea that no one speaks English here and, along the way, I learned a couple of tricks to avoid the misunderstandings. As always, I encourage you to sign up for a <a href="http://www.ailmadrid.com/en/14/5/Spanish-Language-Course" target="_blank">Spanish course</a> to ease your initial experience, but here are a few tips in the meantime:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For starters, you can shop online with some of the larger supermarkets, such at <a href="http://www.carrefour.es/navegacionayuda/mas-info/" target="_blank">Carrefour</a> and if you spend a certain amount, they will deliver the items to your front door. At most of these stores you will find individual packaged meats and cheeses, so you don’t have to worry about ordering up at the deli counter. I now prefer to go to the municipal market not only to practice my Spanish, but because the prices are more competitive here than at the larger supermercados.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5wfAGQRV54/W9wOHPwFuJI/AAAAAAAAKcQ/RrHZrhS0t7M7iLqWryVjRv91ZuaqEh-8ACLcBGAs/s1600/01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="1600" height="303" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V5wfAGQRV54/W9wOHPwFuJI/AAAAAAAAKcQ/RrHZrhS0t7M7iLqWryVjRv91ZuaqEh-8ACLcBGAs/s400/01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I also buy all of our <a href="http://www.renfe.com/" target="_blank">Renfe</a> tickets online, as well as plane tickets, or in English at the ticket machines in the station. Most of hotels also have websites in English that allow you to book online. For the bus and metro you can buy your tickets at an automated ticket machine in English.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you have your health insurance through Sanitas, they have some English speaking associates, and they can provide you with a list of English speaking doctors. Although, be forewarned this list is not very accurate.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can also go to restaurants that you know will provide you an English menu, such as Hard Rock, Foster’s etc. Also, if you are familiar with Mc Donald’s or Burger King’s menu, then you’ll have no problem ordering here in Madrid, but (for a more Spanish experience) most of the restaurants in the very center will have English speaking options.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The point of this is not to avoid speaking Spanish altogether, learning Spanish is one of the best parts of living here, but to help you along as you’re learning the language during those first couple of months. <i>Buena suerte</i>, good luck!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-44757749047696174272018-10-30T13:21:00.000+01:002019-02-11T17:21:58.567+01:00Getting Halloween ready in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Even though it still feels like summer in Madrid, <b>Halloween </b>is fast approaching. Like many an American, I have been thinking about and planning my costume for quite a while now, so this past weekend I set out to get some supplies in order. Through the power of the internet, I was lucky enough to discover a store in the <i>ABC Centro Comercial</i> on <i>Calle Serrano</i> called PARTY FIESTA.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Knowing Spain and its general lack of <b>Halloween </b>costume culture, at least in the 12 and over set, my expectations were pretty low going in. In the interest of giving credit where credit is due, I have to say I was genuinely impressed with the size of the store and the selection. There was not the same “<i>let’s turn a current event or viral video persona into a costume</i>” thing as there is back home, but the basics were more than covered. I was particularly impressed with the make-up/fake blood/wig selections (I was told approximately 1 in 2 Spaniards is either a witch or a dead person, so this comes as no surprise). There was also a decent assortment of Halloween party props and accessories, such as the multi-color strobe light of some sort that the couple in front of me in line was purchasing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">PARTY FIESTA, as the name implies, also has lots of supplies for parties in general (kids’ birthdays, holidays) such as decorations, paper goods, balloons and the like.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As I head back to the world capital of <b>Halloween </b>next week to attend the big parade (er, and also to get married), I can safely say that Madrid did not let me down. This “<i>Bride of Frankenstein</i>” to-be will not be any less spooky than if I purchased my garb in the belly of the beast itself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.partyfiesta.com/es/" target="_blank"><b>Party Fiesta</b></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Calle Serrano, 61 (there are also many other locations throughout the city)</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-38876134289985022632018-10-25T13:15:00.000+02:002019-02-07T12:12:37.499+01:00Costumes and party supplies in Madrid<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Living abroad is full of all sorts of adventures, including many reasons to celebrate. You never know when you’ll be invited to a costume party or have the need to throw a surprise birthday party, so it’s best to act like a superhero and be prepared!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4R_8iJ23suo/W6IvqTxhIcI/AAAAAAAAKbw/MsrEFpY7QQcn85n1oZYPAGkaSONSLcw9wCLcBGAs/s1600/08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4R_8iJ23suo/W6IvqTxhIcI/AAAAAAAAKbw/MsrEFpY7QQcn85n1oZYPAGkaSONSLcw9wCLcBGAs/s400/08.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I recently had the experience of needing a costume and found myself at a complete loss, especially since I don’t actually like dressing up and didn’t have the box of random ‘dress up’ items we usually pull from at home when situations like this come up. Thankfully, a good friend of mine had done her homework and knew just where to go to find the perfect costumes!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We took the metro to Sol and walked a short way down <i>Calle Mayor</i> to reach <b>Il Barullo</b> – a party supply and costume shop. They had quite a selection for such a small shop and we found exactly what we were looking for. <b>Il Barullo</b> has you covered whether you’re planning a 1st birthday party for your little one, a graduation party for a hard-working grad student, or are ready to get decked out for Halloween!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Il Barullo</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.barullo.com/">www.barullo.com</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Locations in Chamberi, Chamartin, and Centro</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-84539037944382747822018-10-23T12:00:00.000+02:002019-02-07T12:14:36.389+01:00Neighborhood: Goya<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I live in the <b>Goya</b> <i>barrio</i>, which is part of the district of <b>Salamanca</b>, here in Madrid. More specifically, it’s basically a giant square bordered by <i>Principe de Vergara, Calle O’Donnell, Calle del Doctor Esquerdo, and Calle de Don Ramon de la Cruz</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When we first moved to Madrid and were thinking about where to live we were admittedly a bit overwhelmed. Do we want the hustle and bustle of <b>Sol</b>? The twisty streets of <b>La Latina</b>? The gritty yet cool area of <b>Chueca</b>? Or do we head out of the center altogether? We decided on <b>Goya </b>for a variety of reasons. It’s very close to <b>Retiro</b>, a quick one-line ride into <b>Sol </b>on the red line, is rather upscale without being pretentious, and is pretty close to IE, my husband’s university.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I’d say one of the most awesome things about Goya is living near the <a href="https://www.wizinkcenter.es/" target="_blank"><b>WiZink Center</b></a>. I’ve never actually seen a concert here, but I’ve been entertained on many evenings by the happens in <i>Plaza San Felipe II</i>, right next to the venue. People lined up for concerts, food stalls, sometimes even music that’s being played outside of the WiZink Center makes for an entertaining evening. If Shakira comes back to Madrid I will certainly have to secure a ticket and see her from a proper seat. On the other side of the WiZink Centeris the <a href="http://www.fnmt.es/web/fnmt37DED9E3DEC7F.nodo2" target="_blank"><b>Real Casa de la Moneda</b></a>, which is basically a big money museum.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For food shopping there are plenty of options in <b>Goya</b>. There is a large supermarket at one of the two giant <i><b><a href="http://www.elcorteingles.es/" target="_blank">Corte Inglés</a></b></i> buildings at the <b>Goya</b>/<b>Alcalá </b>intersection. The other<i> Corte Inglés</i> building houses a level dedicated to luxury and gourmet goods, along with a stocked papeleria with a small greeting card section. A decent-sized Carrefour is located on <i>Calle Conde de Peñalver</i>, not far from the Correos, and a KFC (hey, you might be hungry after waiting 45 minutes to post something). There is also a row of fantastic local shops (a butcher, fruit/veggies, and a fish guy) located on <i>Hermosilla</i>, if you’d like some local flavor instead of the big brands.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just outside of the technical <b>Goya</b> zone, on the southern side, is a great little movie theater that plays English films, <b><a href="http://www.cinesrenoir.com/" target="_blank">Renoir Retiro</a></b>. Mondays are discount days. The theater only shows 4 movies at a time, and the theaters themselves are rather small, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. They even have a book swap book shelf on the second floor. Take a book, bring a book!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Other useful places to know: there is a hospital and a dentist’s office (a Sanitas office) on <i>Calle del Doctor Esquerdo</i>, and two Chinese “bazaar” shops (which are full of cheap but often useful items), one on <i>Hermosilla</i>, and the other on <i>Alcántara</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Overall I really like living in <b>Goya</b>. It’s close to everything in Madrid, but isn’t smack in the middle of the party. Beautiful balconies, quaint European side streets, and proximity to the park and main center makes <b>Goya</b> a great <i>barrio</i> to live in. If you’d like help finding an apartment in this area, try checking in with <a href="http://madrid-rent-flat.com/" target="_blank">Madrid Rent Flat</a> or <a href="http://madridhomestay.com/english/" target="_blank">Madrid Home Stay</a>!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-21587288061024603632018-10-18T12:00:00.000+02:002019-02-07T12:17:12.945+01:00Finding fresh air<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When looking at the picture I have of myself on top of the mirador of the Palacio de Comunciaciones in downtown Madrid (visit! It’s pretty!), most people say things like “<i>wow, you are so lucky to live in such a pretty place!</i>” My friend who studies environmental issues, however, pointed to the skyline and said, “<i>look, a little photochemical smog</i>”. And you’re still deeply obsessed by Finding Fresh Air in Madrid…</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Air pollution is, like almost every other city in the world, a part of life in Madrid. Yes, we have those beautiful blue skies, but sometimes our atmosphere (and our streets) need the cleaning that a good downpour can bring. But reports from local government state that air quality is better than a decade ago and, unlike many other cities, it is constantly improving with new environmental regulations.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jwHys38E0Vg/W6ET-Y58ArI/AAAAAAAAKas/jn9dMI_zlUkG8_EBFPYM4cVKHfHjZkKfQCLcBGAs/s1600/06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jwHys38E0Vg/W6ET-Y58ArI/AAAAAAAAKas/jn9dMI_zlUkG8_EBFPYM4cVKHfHjZkKfQCLcBGAs/s400/06.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you’re particularly sensitive to urban air pollution, however slight it may be, here are a few easy ways to find the feeling of fresh air right here in the city center:</span><br />
<ol><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spend time in <i>Parque del Buen Retiro</i>, which is large enough and far enough from streets to have significantly better air quality than the surrounding streets. This has the added benefit of being a beautiful place to spend time and exercise!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Speaking of running, if you can’t make it to <i>Retiro</i>, try doing your running in a gym; runners take in much more air than a person at rest, which means you may prefer an indoor solution.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Choose your outdoor paths to avoid highly-trafficked roads. The worst air pollution is, predictably, near high-traffic roads, and so you can use your commute to find a less-travelled path to wherever you need to go.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you must be out and about, shoot for early morning. An early morning run is slightly less problematic for your lungs because of the ways pollutants circulate during the day.</span></li>
</ol><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For more information about air quality, including a map that shows up-to-date air quality around the city, visit http://www.mambiente.munimadrid.es/svca/index.php</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-56138843328507003062018-10-16T12:00:00.000+02:002019-02-07T12:17:36.674+01:00Introduction to Madrid with context<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Living abroad means many things. One thing it’s sure to entail is a stream of visitors looking for an exclusive look at Madrid, since you know it all soooo well, right?!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you’re looking for a fun activity here in Madrid for your guests, one where they can actually learn something beyond “this is called a cana”, consider sending them to <a href="https://contexttravel.com/city/Madrid" target="_blank">Context</a>. Context offers small group “walking seminars”, with no more than 6 guests. There are no “tour guides”, but rather the walks are led by docents. The small group dynamic lets you ask questions, or stop for photos, without feeling like you’re holding up the group. The docents leading the tours are more specialized, having earned advanced degrees in art history, classics, urban planning, etc.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In addition to “<a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid?page=1" target="_blank">Introduction to Madrid</a>”, Context offers two “Art Walks” that include “<a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid/tours/francisco-goya-art-revolution" target="_blank">Goya in Madrid</a>”, and “<a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid/tours/prado-a-royal-collection" target="_blank">Prado</a>”. There are also some history oriented tours, featuring “<a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid/tours/welcome-to-madrid" target="_blank">Flamenco</a>”, “<a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid/tours/huertas-and-the-heart-of-golden-age-madrid" target="_blank">Life is a Dream, Intellectual Madrid</a>”, “<a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid/tours/city-under-siege-madrid-in-the-spanish-civil-war-and-the-rise-of-fascism" target="_blank">Civil War and Madrid Under Franco</a>”, and “<a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid/tours/el-escorial-palace-renaissance-splendor" target="_blank">El Escorial</a>”. Context also offers a five hour excursion to <a href="https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/madrid/tours/toledo-city-of-the-three-cultures" target="_blank">Toledo</a>. So pick your interest, or just get an overview of the city.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EBb8KzeBvxE/W6DxJRZVYsI/AAAAAAAAKag/8LIn5-qdAbA9lXPKt48eXaMnutCTGVMyACLcBGAs/s1600/05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EBb8KzeBvxE/W6DxJRZVYsI/AAAAAAAAKag/8LIn5-qdAbA9lXPKt48eXaMnutCTGVMyACLcBGAs/s400/05.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I participated in the “Introduction to Madrid” walk this past weekend. The clouds were beginning to cover the sky, ominously looking like rain, when I met our docent, Andrea, at the meeting point in Puerta del Sol. Luckily the weather held out for our 2.5 hour tour, which covered the palace area, La Latina, and Huertas, in addition to Sol. Andrea described how Madrid came to be formed, and shared details of the Hapsburg kings, Spanish customs, and, in particular, the architecture of the city. And we took a visit to the Mercado de San Miguel, where I grabbed some delicious olives before we were off to the Plaza Mayor. I snapped shots along the way with my fancy camera, as did Mike, another New Yorker on the walk, and I was grateful for the opportunity to stop and pause in this wonderful city.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Although I have seen these parts of Madrid many times now, it was wonderful to hear more history of the city, and I have a feeling the themed tours (especially Franco) would be particularly interesting.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-83451712186119176712018-10-11T12:00:00.000+02:002019-02-07T12:18:06.668+01:00Madrid - Using the city as a resource to learn Spanish!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you are studying Spanish then you’re in the right place! One of the great things about Madrid is that it’s still a very Spanish city. It hasn’t given over its soul to mass tourism, and although an increasing number of people can speak English here, what you hear in the bars, the shops and in the street is mainly Spanish, meaning that there infinite opportunities to practice. The <i>AIL Madrid Guide</i> to the city is designed as a learning resource to help your practice become as effective as possible! Here are some of our top tips to help you fully immerse yourself into the Spanish culture:</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Los mercados (the markets)</b></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Buying food is a necessity. Doing your regular shopping in a traditional market instead of a supermarket will not only get you fresher produce, but it will force you to interact with a real person… in Spanish! It’s a great way to consolidate basic vocabulary, to practice requests as well of course numbers.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UOC6BhFLMMA/W6DoMvPM-AI/AAAAAAAAKaM/nFJy0YyK0gEzeXRW7emHS77kytmX3-ozgCLcBGAs/s1600/04%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UOC6BhFLMMA/W6DoMvPM-AI/AAAAAAAAKaM/nFJy0YyK0gEzeXRW7emHS77kytmX3-ozgCLcBGAs/s400/04%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the last few years a lot of great gastro markets have appeared throughout the city. However, we recommend you try one of the many traditional ones. There’s one in every neighborhood. Here are three of our favorites.</span><br />
<ol><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Mercado de Maravillas</b>. Calle Bravo Murillo 122. Dating back to 1942 it’s Madrid’s largest market and, strangely, the second largest fish market in the world after Tokyo! It’s a great place to improve your fish, fruit and vegetable related vocabulary!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Mercado de San Antón</b>. Calle de Augusto Figueroa 24. A classic working class Madrid market in the central barrio of Lavapiés. Just listen to people talking and absorb the language!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Mercado de La Paz</b>. Calle Ayala 28. Built in 1879 in the heart of the swanky Salamanca District, this combines tradition and style, and is a beautiful setting to hone in on your Spanish shopping skills.</span></li>
</ol><b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">La Filmoteca</b><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Calle Santa Isabel 3. There are few better ways of developing listening comprehension skills than following a movie and focusing on the dialogue. Even if it’s a challenge, listening out for set phrases is great for your auditory comprehension. The fantastically good value Cine Doré, known as the Filmoteca, has regular cycles of Spanish cinema and is a beautiful setting for the Spanish cinema experience.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: start;">Instituto Cervantes</b></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Calle Alcalá 49. The Instituto Cervantes not only oversees the accreditation system which guarantees quality control at Spanish language schools, but also exists to promote Spanish Language and Culture. Its emblematic HQ on Calle Alcalá holds regular exhibitions, a must for any serious student of Spanish.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">La música</b></span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Listening to music in Spanish is as pleasant a way as any to tune your ear to the rhythms of Spanish speech. There are a number of bars which specialize in Spanish cantautores (singer/songwriters), often completely free or for less than 10 euros.</span><br />
<ol><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>La Fídula</b>. Calle Huertas 57, great area, great live music.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Libertad 8</b>. Calle Libertad 8, a historic venue for cantautores in the heart of Chueca.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>The Dog & Roll</b>. Avenida de Brasil 17, a variety of Spanish artists from folk to rock n roll.</span></li>
</ol><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">El microteatro</b></span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spanish theatre in small spaces! This is up and coming in Madrid. Great for improving listening skills and is often interactive, meaning that you can put your Spanish into practice!</span><br />
<ol><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Microteatro Por Dinero</b>. Calle Loreto Prado y Enrique Chicote, 9. Located in hipster territory in a former brothel in Malasaña!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Esconditeatro</b>. Calle Estu¬dios 2. An intimate experience in La Latina.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>La Infinito Café Libros</b>. Calle Tres Peces 22. In multi cultural Lavapiés, a bar upstairs, and micro-theatre downstairs!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>La Escalera de Jacob</b>. Calle Lavapiés 9. Also in Lavapiés. Micro-theatre every Wednesday with 3 pieces for just 9 euros.</span></li>
</ol><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are also a number of things you can do to make speaking Spanish a part of your daily life in Madrid.</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aXD92c_ST1E/W6Do5pt8FjI/AAAAAAAAKaU/KGW4cdTBYPgEk5uULKoP6yLYKyjBKryzwCLcBGAs/s1600/04%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aXD92c_ST1E/W6Do5pt8FjI/AAAAAAAAKaU/KGW4cdTBYPgEk5uULKoP6yLYKyjBKryzwCLcBGAs/s400/04%2B3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Football in bars!</b> Even if you’re not a fan, watching a game of La Liga in a crowded bar full of Spaniards is as good a way as any to strike up a conversation, and you’ll be anything but bored!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Kiosks</b>. The city is full of them. If you can’t handle a full novel then try buying the odd magazine, or better still books of crosswords and word games.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Social media</b>. Change your phone settings and social media apps to Spanish now! If you’re looking for Spanish company, and a chance to converse check out www.uolala.com or www.singlesmadrid.es</span></li>
</ul><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It’s a great city. Once you start to relate to it in Spanish it becomes even greater! Enjoy!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-56119432288254657182018-10-09T12:00:00.000+02:002019-02-07T12:18:44.053+01:00J&J Books and Coffee<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have always been an avid reader, but since moving to Madrid my appetite for good books has been almost insatiable. I find that after a long day of working and speaking entirely in Spanish, my brain needs its English fix to rest and unwind a little bit. While my reading comprehension skills in Spanish are pretty solid at this point, I seek comfort in the relaxing nature of reading in my native English. One of my hobbies in New York was collecting second hand books so I was able to bring a few over when I moved here, but after the first few weeks I desperately needed to replenish my supply, and that is when I discovered <a href="http://www.jandjbooksandcoffee.com/" target="_blank"><b>J&J Books and Coffee</b></a>.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>J&J Books</b> is a café/bar/bookstore located in the <i>Malasaña</i> neighborhood. Among other things, they host various events during the week such as <i>intercambio</i> nights and quiz nights that provide a fun, casual environment to meet other expats as well as Spaniards looking to brush up on their English. </span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjuSQY7G0Ho/W6DgGhgGbGI/AAAAAAAAKaA/nQlDD6zqiQAGf3QOa8s6DaEQPpSyRRgpQCLcBGAs/s1600/03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="550" height="293" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QjuSQY7G0Ho/W6DgGhgGbGI/AAAAAAAAKaA/nQlDD6zqiQAGf3QOa8s6DaEQPpSyRRgpQCLcBGAs/s400/03.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The bottom floor holds a large collection of second-hand, English-language books. The quantity of books is vast and impressive and is divided by category (romance, mystery, biography, classics, teaching English, health, etc.) to ease navigation. The website also includes a browse tool that enables you to see what books they have in their catalogue (by author, title or subject), but I know in my case I tend to enjoy the process of browsing the shelves and seeing what´s out there.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Discovering this store has been such a treat for me. Few are the days when I leave there with less than four or five books to devour. Given that <b>J&J</b> buys books from its customers as well, they often have many new releases on hand but those tend to move fairly quickly. Enjoy!</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>J&J Books and Coffee</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">C/ Espíritu Santo, 47</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Metro: Noviciado</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13402021202768267573noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6948857437551218924.post-72462247815081354922018-10-04T12:00:00.000+02:002019-02-07T12:19:40.692+01:00Spain sin español<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are many ways to learn Spanish once you get to Spain.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The biggest reason I have heard for not moving to Spain has been <i>“I don’t speak Spanish!”</i> At first, I thought that was an acceptable reason to avoid the country, given how difficult language barriers can make communication in the most ordinary of interactions (the basic Spain sin Español). However, I have come around to the point of view that, if you are a person with a chance to move to Madrid, it doesn’t matter all that much whether you know Spanish initially and here’s why!</span><br />
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</span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4IYo4GCgmY/W6Dd0qe0awI/AAAAAAAAKZ0/6Sn7ZsomhtkQ5WEHpcaBmOl05IPRH6m_QCLcBGAs/s1600/02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="623" data-original-width="1024" height="242" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4IYo4GCgmY/W6Dd0qe0awI/AAAAAAAAKZ0/6Sn7ZsomhtkQ5WEHpcaBmOl05IPRH6m_QCLcBGAs/s400/02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<ol><li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b>You’ll start learning as soon as you get here</b>: if you have to start work before taking any Spanish classes, you will still start to pick things up instantly. That said, Madrid is home to a lot of high quality Spanish academies, so the opportunity to learn is right here waiting for you! Our favorite is <a href="https://www.ailmadrid.com/en/1/1/home.html" target="_blank">AIL Madrid</a>, since you’ll also start to build an immediate sense of community and a friend group as a newcomer to the city. I spent years in the United States learning “<i>¿Dónde está la biblioteca?</i>” type phrases, but the Spanish you learn here will be more applicable and instantly fire-tested because you will be really trying to buy groceries or tell the taxi driver where you are going, not just practicing with a classroom partner.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b>You are probably prized for your English speaking skills</b>: whether you are here as an English teacher or as a business person in another field, knowing English will be a helpful if not essential element of your job, and there’s a good chance that (as long as you let them know ahead of time) Spanish won’t be. Every day there are more people who speak English in this country, and even those who don’t speak it really well often can understand you. If you’d like to take advantage of this, try getting your TEFL certification with <a href="http://ttmadrid.com/" target="_blank">TTMadrid</a> and they will link you in to the network of English teachers here in Madrid.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b>Living in a country where you don’t know the language does something special to you</b>: Everyday life is more of an adventure when you are constantly trying to understand and express yourself in a non-native language. You will learn unforgettable lessons, laugh at yourself, and be frustrated, but you will not cruise through your days without any memorable experiences. I know this is true because, even though I came to Spain with a reasonable level of Spanish for someone who had never been immersed in the language, I myself have experienced it. I feel more alive here because every conversation has to be a little more intentional and, in the middle of a conversation, I get to ask what a word means and learn something totally new.</span></li>
</ol><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Don’t let the reason why you don’t come to Spain be lack of knowledge of Spanish; while it won’t be an easy life at first, the benefits definitely outweigh the drawbacks!</span><br />
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