A Nostalgic Return to Madrid

Landing in Madrid this March, memories of 2020 flooded back—weekly work trips with Técnicas Reunidas, rigid schedules, and airport routines. But this time, it’s all about reconnecting with a friend and diving into a Zumba Jam Session.

Madrid’s heartbeat is Puerta del Sol, home to the iconic Bear and the Strawberry Tree and Kilómetro Cero. A short walk leads to the grand Plaza Mayor, and then, my ultimate indulgence—Mercado de San Miguel, a paradise of vibrant tapas and Spanish delicacies.

At night, the city glows. Strolling past the majestic Palacio de Cibeles, Puerta de Alcalá, and the museum-filled Jeronimos district, we ended at Atocha Station, where a tropical garden thrives beneath its glass ceiling.

On the city’s western side, we started the day with breakfast at Plaza de España, then braved the rain to reach the Templo de Debod. Though its surrounding waters had disappeared, the panoramic view of Madrid—featuring the Teatro Real, Palacio Real, and Cathedral de Almudena—was still breathtaking.

Madrid, you never lose your magic.