MADRID

Madrid, the extraordinary capital of Spain, is full of contradictions.  On the one hand, it is stately and refined and, on the other hand, it is vibrant and epicurean.  It is at once deeply steeped in history, while being in the avant- garde of fashion, food and the arts.

As a magnet for the best and the newest in food trends, Madrid offers outstanding culinary experiences with a Spanish twist.

For the art aficionado, Madrid has much to offer. But even for the casual observer, The Golden Triangle of Art is a must. Here, 15 minutes apart, are three of the most outstanding art museums of the world. The Prado, a treasure trove of 12th to 19th century European art, is most noted for Velazqez’s Las Meninas, Goya’s La Maja Vestida and La Maja Desnuda and his works of ‘3rd of May’.  The Reina Sofia specializes in modern Spanish art but is most known for Picasso’s Guernica, a painting of great artistic and historical significance that was kept, at Picasso’s request, in MOMA in New York from 1940 until 1981.  The triangle is completed by the Thyssen-Bornemisza, with works from 13th to 20th centuries that span all the continents and feature Canaletto, Rubens, Degas, van Gogh, Gauguin, Picasso, de Kooning and much more.

Flamenco, which originated in Andalusia, has become a permanent fixture of Madrid and among the numerous Flamenco shows that are daily available, it is not unusual to see some of the finest Flamenco performers. 

Shopping in Madrid runs the gamut from world renown designer boutiques to leisure destination malls complete with stores, restaurants, golf and indoor skiing.

Spain’s major roads begin at Puerta del Sol in Madrid, which marks ‘point 0 kilometre’ for all 6 roads.  Indeed, Madrid is an excellent start for numerous day trips to cities like Toledo, Segovia, El Escorial, Chinchon, Aranjuez and Alcala de Henares.

Be sure to save some time for one of Madrid’s favorite pastimes: people watching. Meander through extensive parks and plazas, or simply sit at an outdoor café, sipping an espresso or nursing a rioja and let the spirit of Spain envelop you.