Madrid-The Capital of Spain
I travelled to Madrid February 2010 with Easyjet.  I left from Edinburgh airport and the flight took just over 2 hours. When we arrived in Madrid, we took the Airport taxi which cost 45 on return it cost on only 25. Be warned.
We stayed at Best Western Arosa. Located in the midst of Gran Va, the commercial, tourist and monumental core of Madrid. It was fine. 

My highlight of Madrid was a visit to see Real Madrid
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I am standing next to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium

You have got a lot to see in Madrid.

Great Mother of the gods and the goddess of fertility sits on top of a chariot drawn by two lions. 
Cibeles Fountain has been standing in this emblematic square since 1782. 

Carrion building, with its famous Schweppes sign

Look out for the street performances.

​At the entrance of Calle Alcalá is a sculpture of a bear and strawberry tree, representing the coat of arms of Madrid. It was built in 1967 and is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists in Sol.

Above is the Metropolis Building located in Gran Vía and Alcalá Street. Built between 1910 and 1929. Gran Vía is Madrid’s most famous street.It is also the street with the most nightlife.
I spent two nights with Glasgows Famous Gallow club in this area.
​Crazy times.

Tipping is not the norm for most Spaniards, though some people like to leave a euro. 

I found the city safer than Barcelona but you should be alert. Just like any other major cities. I never drink local water, but the people of Madrid are proud of their standard of drinking water.

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