Super early wakeup time. After a quick breakfast, seriously like 15 mins, it was on to the bus. There were signs everywhere saying to please do not remove food from the dining area. Badass Pam ignored and packed her purse full of yummy goods. 
Unfortunately they don't allow pictures inside. But I will tell you this, friends, it is freaking unbelievable in there. Chandeliers up the wazoo, gold embellishment everywhere, you know, castle stuff! Highlight of my day.
As a karmic punishment though, I did have a bit of a scare. After we were all packed on the bus, I realized I had left my mobile in the lobby. I booked it, running, moving my body in a speed it hasn't seen in quite some time, getting back just as the last person sat down. Whew!
Now we were off. Quick stop in Cordoba, home of an ancient mosque, now a cathedral.
Back on the bus, "rapido, rapido" we were officially on our way to Madrid! We learned that upon our arrival, there would be a demonstration occurring a block away from the hotel. Cool, I thought. With a strong recommendation to be back before dark and to stay clear of the demonstration, where do you think I went? Right to the action, of course! I stood as a spectator, looking in from the outside. Thousands upon thousands of people, some with signs, some with flags, some armed with just their voices, crowded the streets. Soon enough, I had joined in with the march. "Si se puede!" we chanted as we processed down the avenue. Super exciting, once in a lifetime moment. Sidenote: found out that there were over 100 injured after the peaceful protest got out of hand later that night.
Day #9
What a good nights sleep I got, despite waking at 3 am drenched in sweat because I didn't know how to work the thermostat. I stuffed my face at breakfast then headed out for a tour of Madrid. It really reminds me of NYC here: tons of people, tall buildings, just very busy. I saw some massive, official looking buildings, as well as the Royal Palace. "I'm definitely going there later," I thought to myself. We stopped at the Prado, a museum housing masterpieces by Goya and some other giants of the art world. This is where I say that I have absolutely no interest in art. I can appreciate the history of it and the fact that these artists are super important, but seriously? Yawn. I hate how uncultured I am bee tee dubs. Now it was off to find the palace! Soon enough, I had arrived. In front of me was an honest to goodness castle. A place where the current King and Queen of Spain reside once a month. Awesome.
Nerd alert:
Later I headed to the hotel bar to watch Real Madrid take on Barcelona in a big futbol game. Now, I understand soccer about as much as I understand backgammon (not at all), however I had so much fun. Drinks, people, food, what's not to like. Oh yeah, Barcelona won.
Day #10
Today I wandered around the big city. I stopped at El Corte Ingles (like a macys) to pick up saffron for my mom then I was off. Holy cow did I get lost! I stopped a few times to ask for directions but just ended up deeper and deeper into the city. Great. Luckily I spotted my hotels sister hotel and they were totally helpful. They gave me a map and even circled where I was and where I wanted to go. Mucho gracias!! Still got lost though, lol. After a few more turns down random streets, I was in somewhat familiar territory. I found my way back and rewarded myself with yummy tapas.
Tonight is my last night. I say goodbye to all the wonderful people I've met on this amazing journey. I truly do hope that I am able to keep in touch with my new travel buddies and perhaps even meet up again with them in the future.
:)
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