Madrid

Okay so I know this is way past due but people keep asking me to update my Spain post.  I guess they really want to read about it rather than just talk to me, but whatever.  Here it is....

After a long xanax induced sleep we arrived in Madrid.  With the loss of six hours we were somewhat delirious but ready to go.  We met our first Airbnb landlord who spoke little to no English with much excitement.  It might have been important to listen or watch more carefully on how to actually open the door to the apartment.  Not doing this would cause Arianna and myself much frustration only a few days later in Madrid.  Ever have to go to the bathroom real real bad and get to your front door squeezing and clinching with your whole being to not have an accident?  Yeah, well imagine not being able to open the god damn door.  Not so fun.

Anyways, we dropped our stuff and head out to grab some food because we had not eaten a solid meal in like what felt like a day.  We walked around for about an hour just trying to decide where to go.  We had no idea where we were or what we wanted to eat, so finding somewhere was somewhat difficult.  Words of advice for future travel, bring a friend who can make decisions, traveling with four indecisive girls is a effin train wreck.  Regardless, we found the best spot.  We had our first round of patatas bravas and endless amounts of olives, wine, and espresso.  This stop was by far the most hilarious and delirious sit down I have ever experienced.  I never laughed so hard in my life.  Miss this so much. 

From this point forward there were many highlights to Madrid....

1.  We found a local spot, Ocean Bar.  Downright dirty and sweaty, but the biggest beers you can find.  And the most awesome people.  By the time we left Madrid we were friends with the owners and were being invited late night (aka early morning 6 am) to divulged in a couple more shots
before breakfast.  Locals were wondering why the hell we would spend our time in Ocean Bar while in Madrid, but it just fit us.  We felt at home  here, so that is exactly what we had made it.  When all else failed, we went to Ocean Bar.  And when you realize Club Nasty, is well, just Nasty, there's Ocean Bar. 

2.  Patatas Bravas is the most god damn delicious thing ever created.  After our first bite, we insisted on trying them every single meal we had for the rest of the trip.  Every place makes them differently, making it very difficult to choose your favorite. 

3.  Guys.  And lots of them.  Even though we were shooting to make out with the women in Madrid, we were all very fortunate to find some hotties while visiting.  Arianna fell in love.  Danielle, got cheated on.  And I...on the other hand, made out and got robbed.  Awesome.  Accusing the guy you are making out with of robbing you, however, NOT so awesome.  Fucking Americans. 

4.  We quickly learned that you do not eat dinner anytime before 8pm.  Americans are special.  We do not do it right.  The night is much more interesting when you can eat dinner at 8 pm and stay out until 7 am.  And these mother effers do not go light on the alcohol.  The looks on our faces with our very first pour was priceless.  Drinking in Spain is well worth the money. 

5.  McDonald's maps are the best thing McDonalds has ever produced. 

6.  Fuencarral.  Best street ever.  Do not stay anywhere else if you ever visit.  And it's fun to say, in any situation. 

7.  Tintas.  Another great find.  Red wine mixed with lemon seltzer.  Best ever.  Eff Sangria, Tintas is where its at.  Ohhhh and Mama Titas.  And Jose.  He was so amazing and helpful to us.  I wish I could have put him in my pocket and taken him home with me. 

8.  The churches in Madrid are absolutely gorgeous.  Not being super into organized religion my experience with churches in Spain were much different.  I did not anticipate myself entering a church and wanting to do anything but take photographs.  This was not the case.  I had one of the most eye opening spiritual experiences in my life while in Spain.  And while I still do not believe in organized religion, I was reminded there is something to believe in.  Whatever it is, or was, was emotionally overwhelming, but one of the most intense and beautiful things I have ever experienced.  I will forever hold Madrid in my heart for this. 

9.  Ocho y Medio.  After spending almost an entire night finding this club, we finally stumbled upon it.  Thanks to those at Ocean Bar.  Who knew the bar moved five thousand times before settling in a sister location.  Place was fucking ridiculous.  Even though I spent the majority of my night wanting to punch everyone in the face after realizing I was pick pocketed, the club was sick.  We had the best time here.  And wait, did I say, Arianna fell in love.  OH Fran.  "Why are you laughing?  Is my name funny or something."  What are the chances of a Fran falling in love with a Fran?  Shits ridiculous. 

And finally.....

10.  Don't ever go to Madrid with the expectation that you will ever want to leave.  This city is amazing and just short of paradise. 

We learned a lot during our first couple of days...I can sum it up right here.  Madrid is beautiful.  The people in Madrid are even more beautiful.  And we wanted to sleep with everyone.  And by everyone I mean everyone. 

We all added Madrid to our top ten favorite places, ranking between 1 and 2.  Our love for Madrid gave the rest of Spain a lot to live up to.

Next up....Valenthhhhheeeeaaa.