Dave Takes Spain

Green house in El Retiro

Dave decided to make an appearance in Spain, so he hopped on a plane and arrived on Wednesday -- good thing, too, because the general huelga began on Thursday and the entire city of Madrid shut down in protest. Naturally, Mr. B was happy to be part of a history and thoroughly enjoyed the city. I was not so sure about letting him make his own way to Navaleno alone, so I met him at the statue of King Carlos III on Friday night.

Strike

Our hotel, Jardin de Recoletos, was hidden away on a side street but was perfectly beautiful, complete with gardens in the back, marble staircase and chandelier in the front. (I'll take credit for that, thank you very much.) We had the most delightful meal in a back alley street at a locals-only restaurant called Cinco Jotas. Steak, Rioja, 2 chocolate desserts.. hands down the best meal I've had in Spain. But since sleep doesn't come easy when I have access to wifi and I awoke Saturday morning with a wicked sore throat, we decided to leisurely stroll through the city and enjoy the perfect spring time weather. This included a full tour of El Parque del Buen Retiro (El Retiro for short) and a tulip-filled stroll at Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid (botanical gardens.) Quite a lovely way to spend the last weekend in Spain.

Hey look, it's Carlos! Again! On a Horse! Again!

Spring has sprung!