Madrid

Arc de la Concordia

I’m a city guy, through and through. I was born and mostly raised on Chicago’s South Side (Hey Englewood and South Shore!). Growing up I walked and used public transit to get around the city. Fast forward 35 years later and I’ve lived in Brooklyn, DC, and now I reside in Atlanta. And this is part of my current struggle. Atlanta is not a city in the way in which I’m used to. Even Midtown does not have a city vibe. One could technically walk to Trader Joe’s but it’s not the same. I miss walking out my door and just wandering around the city exploring new neighborhoods, restaurants and bars and not being the only person out and about. Which is why when I travel to major cities I go out of my way to walk and use public transit. And let me say, Madrid did not disappoint.

Plaza de Espana

I stayed near the Plaza de Espana in central Madrid (Centro). Excellent location near plenty of restaurants, shopping, and the subway. One of the first things I do is explore the area near wherever I’m staying. I look for supermarkets, banks, coffee shops, and landmarks to help me find my way back. Also I need booze. That’s a must and I prefer to get it from a supermarket. I like to have my own on demand happy hour. And as I write this I realized I didn’t bring home any wine. Devastating.

It happened to be Saturday night in Madrid so the city was buzzing. As I strolled through the neighborhoods I found myself standing outside Bears Bar. This could have been pure coincidence or maybe my internal gay magnet brought me here – like Salmon making their way home. I had a great time. Met a few other Americans on holiday. Just make your way over near Plaza Pedro Zerolo. Most of the gay bars are in this general area.

Also, side note: There’s a conversation I’d like to have about the Animal Kingdom in the LGBT community. Like what are Bears and Otters and how did I wake up one day being identified as bear?

Anyway after a semi late night, I woke up early and got to it. Here’s my day in photos.

These are images from Campo del Moro. A park providing an alternate view of the Royal Palace of Madrid. I spent a lot of time here. Mostly because there are limited entrances and exits and some of them were closed for construction so I had to retrace my steps back. If you go, try to catch it right at opening. When I arrived I was the only person there. A little over an hour later, it was becoming difficult to take pictures without people in the frame.

My favorite restaurant was El 5 de Tirso. I got the lamb and crispy pork (Torreznos). HIGHLY recommend both and they are easily shareable. I was alone and ended up eating half and got the rest to go. It’s absolutely delicious so don’t you dare ask for any changes. You’ll take it as served and you’ll like it. Thanks.

Plaza Mayor

I walked to Plaza Mayor. Great spot to people watch and have a drink. I was alone and enjoyed sitting for a drink.

Nelson Mandela Square (which is in a very non-touristy area with lots of immigrant shops and restaurants).

I caught sunset near the university campus and prime minister’s official residence.

Lookout of Principe Pio Mountain

My time in Madrid reinforced my love for the city life. And for now it seems I’m going to have to leave Atlanta every couple of months to get my city high.