Madrid

So we made it to Madrid last night, and only an hr behind schedule. We took a bus since it was much cheaper than the train. Small problem trying to get out of one of the lots. There were too many cars parked on an angle and the bus couldn't get through- on either road. So 7 people helping (2 cops, 2 security guards, 3 guys on the bus got off) and the rest of us on the bus praying that we didn't tip, we finally go through. Curb hopping and avoiding poles and cars. Good lord. We checked into our hostel and tried to cool down a little. We mapped out everything like usual and since we were here on a Sunday, decided that we would get tickets to a bullfight. Walked around the area, stopped for a small snack and backup sleep. 

Today we went on the token free tour and received our Madrid history and culture. We walked around on our own after to try to get more sights in before the 7 show. Plaza Mayor, Palace of Madrid ( has over 200 rooms- unnecessary!), Puerta de Sol, San Francisco el Grande Basilica, the church of San Gines, Alcada Gate, San Miguel market, and the Gate of Toledo. We also saw three fountains- Neptune, Apollo, and a fountain honoring Madrid... Can't remember the name.

We found some fun art statues in our travels and grass ( you wouldn't realize how it's like gold over here) and Bill was very excited!

We headed to Los Torros for the bullfight. Now, I read up on the event so I  knew some of the verbiage and ceremony, however, they left out a lot of important things. It was all fun and games through the pomp and circumstance in the beginning and watching the dance between man and bull. Then the part that almost made me throw up... Not anywhere did they state that they purposely started knifing the bull. Just for shits and giggles. Some coward guy came out on a horse, both shielded, with a spear... I won't even tell you the rest of it. I was horrified. I did t watch the whole second match. I wanted to go. After that Bill was pretty much done too (thank god!) and we left. We were both so silent and clearly disturbed as we left to get on the metro to come back. I don't get this as a sport at all... there is not skill when it's five guys and weapons. I don't even want to put up the few pictures I did take. Still just so unsettled. 

Tomorrow we are leaving the city for the day to head to Segovia. It  be a nice change of pace since it is a small town. 

I did get a good piece of info today from Katy and Tammy... Rob and Shay had their baby girl- Lorelai- and she is gorgeous! CONGRATULATIONS!