On the streets of Madrid

Let me share with you some streets scenes from Madrid!

This is our arrival point for most of our trips into Madrid: Atocha Renfe.

Riding the Metro is a different experience every time. Sometimes we see drunks pass out. Sometimes we are targeted by pick pocketers. Sometimes we are squished into those cars with people literally on our laps. We ALWAYS are running to catch the next train back home.

People like to play all kinds of instruments for some dinero. I like to listen to them, especially the opera lady.

This plaza was my first view of Madrid.

A city canvas.

It is funny to see all the little "accessory" dogs.

These painted cows are part of a traveling art exhibit. Some of them are kind of pretty.

Earning daily bread courtesy of tourists.

I feel bad because I never put any money in the pot.

This guy reminded me of The Invisible Man.

These flamenco dancers were not as good as Valencia or "Carmen," but still fun to see.

Very different, very awesome.

This small ensemble was super good and made that trip five times better because it was a cold and cloudy day. They played classical pieces and attracted a large crowd.

Mariachi in Madrid? The famous statue and symbol of Madrid, the bear and tree, is in the background.

Obviously you can find a McDonald and KFC restaurante most places in the world. I confess I have gone to McDonalds a couple times, but only for a yogurt and once for cherry tomatoes.

Speaking of la comida... this my friends is a castaña, roasted chestnut. Back in January when the weather was begging me for a warm belly I miraculously found a street vendor.

And yes, the famous chocolateria. This was by far the best chocolate and churros I have had in Spain. I am seriously contemplating opening a place like this to battle all the frozen yogurt places in Provo.

At the entrance to El Parque del Buen Retiro there is a street lined with books stalls. You betcha I have spent a couple hours of happiness here!

(The only downside to it is that all the books are in Spanish.)