Madrid

Go to Palacio Real and for excellent pastries La Mallorquina at Puerta del Sol.

I stayed with locals who took us to amazing restaurants that were so cheap! Try the Arroz Negro (paella with squid ink - surprisingly yummy). I loved the city - there was so much to see and it was so clean!

Don't expect the streets to go where you think they will.  You can't just head in the general direction you want to go and expect to get there in a straight shot.  This is an old old city, and the streets meander and wander.  I know from experience this can lead to sore feet, thirstiness, and a slight annoyance at your older brother for trusting his sense of direction!

One of the most beautiful places to visit however, do be careful of pick pockets!

Madrid is great, especially Retiro, Plaza Mayor, the Reina Sophia museum with the lovely Miros, Picassos and - of course - Dalis. The Prado was alright, but I suppose I expected too much. The nicest things to do are to stroll through the streets with your sweetheart and absorb the Spanish vibes. Go for a hot chocolate at the chocolateria, or some fish at Principe Pio. The Palace is also stunning, especially the gardens. I stayed out at Vallecas once; a bit of a trip with the metro, but definitely worth it. You get a fully equiped appartment with WiFi and kitchenette for about €75 per night - double room nota bene. I will never forget Madrid....

Stay at the Oasis Madrid Albufera - great place just on the outskirts of Madrid for half the price. Only about a half an hour with the metro, so it's worth it. Vallecas itself isn't too great. The town center, however, is not bad. It's just when you come out of the metro station to your right. Go for some lunch or dinner at the Cafe just across the road - vis-a-vis the church.

I do not like Madrid... I guess it is a matter of taste!

The subway system in Madrid is great and goes right to the airport, but some of the inner city stations have many stairs to cart luggage up and down. Don't expect to eat dinner until 9pm, since most of the restaurants close for the afternoon.

I didn't care much for Madrid. The men seemed to undress you with thier stares. Different culture Lol. There was plenty of great shopping and the metro was very good. the Platha mayor is a place to see and be seen. the cafes have great spaghetti and sangria. all in all a nice place but not my favorite.

The food isn't great.