Hola amigos! I’m back with another travel tale, fresh from the vibrant streets of Madrid. This time, my husband Rashid, our 16-year-old daughter Simone, and I embarked on a whirlwind adventure through the Spanish capital, following a delightful journey through the white villages of Andalusia and the Alcazar in Seville.
Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Our first stop was the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to the legendary Real Madrid Football Club. Stepping into this historic venue was like entering a footballing wonderland. We were mesmerized by the sheer size and grandeur of the stadium, its gleaming white facade standing proud against the azure sky.
Real Madrid, nicknamed “Los Blancos” (The Whites), boasts a long and illustrious history. Founded in 1902, they are one of the most successful football clubs in the world, having won a staggering 35 La Liga titles and 14 Champions League trophies.
The Galacticos era of Real Madrid
The Galacticos era of Real Madrid was a time of unparalleled glamour and success, and no player embodied that era more than Zinedine Zidane. He was the maestro, the conductor of the orchestra, weaving magic with his sublime touch and elegant passing. He was the man who made the impossible seem effortless, the one who could turn a game on its head with a single moment of brilliance. Whether it was his iconic volley against Bayer Leverkusen in the 2002 Champions League final or his audacious Panenka penalty in the 2006 World Cup final, Zidane always had a knack for the dramatic. He was the heart and soul of the Galacticos, the player who made all the others tick.
But Zidane’s legacy extends far beyond his playing career. As a coach, he has proven to be just as successful, if not more so. He has led Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles, an unprecedented feat in modern football. Just like he did as a player, Zidane has the Midas touch as a coach, turning Real Madrid into one of the most dominant forces in world football.
As we walked through the hallowed halls of the Bernabéu, we learned about the club’s legendary players, including Alfredo Di Stéfano, Ferenc Puskás, and Cristiano Ronaldo. We even had the chance to sit in the president’s box and imagine ourselves leading the team to victory!
The tour culminated with us stepping out onto the actual pitch, the hallowed turf where legends have graced the game. The atmosphere was electric, and we could almost hear the roar of the crowd as we kicked a ball around on the same ground where so many historic matches have been played.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Our next adventure was a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city. We opted for the top deck, basking in the warm Spanish sunshine as the breeze ruffled our hair. The panoramic views of Madrid were breathtaking. We saw iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Plaza Mayor, and the Puerta del Sol, each one a testament to the city’s rich history and culture.
As we rode around, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace and joy. The gentle sway of the bus, the warm sun on my skin, and the stunning sights of Madrid around us created a magical moment that I will never forget.
By the time we completed two loops of the city, we were feeling a little peckish. Craving something different, we decided to try a Peruvian restaurant called Piscomar By Jhosef Arias, located near the Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great.
Piscomar: Peruvian Restaurant in Madrid
The restaurant was a delightful surprise. We were greeted with warm smiles and delicious aromas, and the pisco sours were the perfect way to kick off our meal. We savored every bite of our ceviches, anticuchos, and other Peruvian specialties, each dish bursting with flavor and authenticity.
After dinner, we took a short stroll across the street to the garden behind the Royal Basilica of St. Francis the Great. This hidden oasis was a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. We wandered amongst the lush greenery, breathed in the fresh air, and admired the architecture of the basilica.
As dusk settled, we reluctantly walked back to our hotel, our hearts brimming with joy and our minds full of memories. Madrid had captured our hearts with its vibrant energy, rich history, and delicious cuisine. And as I drifted off to sleep, I knew that this was a city we would never forget.
So, if you’re looking for a city break that has it all, look no further than Madrid. From football to sunshine, food to history, there’s something for everyone in this captivating Spanish capital. Just don’t forget to book your tickets to the Bernabéu and pack your dancing shoes – you’ll need them for the nightlife!
Hasta luego!
All Around The World 