2 DAYS IN MADRID OFF THE BEATEN TRACK (WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK)

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COOL THINGS IN JAPAN YOU MUST SEE

Similar to other great Spanish cities like Barcelona and Valencia, Madrid is much more than world-class museums, soaring architecture and mouthwatering cuisine.

There is another Madrid that is more subdued, hidden down ancient winding streets yet equally fascinating.

As the center of Madrid, all roads in Spain start in Sol. In the center of the plaza you see a sign stating “kilometer 0.” The streets that extend from Sol, like spikes on a wheel, are full of restaurants, flamenco clubs and unique shops.

Sol

It’s always interesting to stroll Madrid’s main square, Plaza Mayor, and learn about its history. Completed in 1619 and reconstructed in 1854, this plaza has witnessed many key public events like bull fights, crowning ceremonies, Spanish Inquisition trials and executions.

The Chueca neighborhood was once a seedy part of town. Over time it transformed itself into the center of Madrid’s gay community. Today it is a vibrant section of town with tapas bars, shopping boutiques and a lively club scene.

Chueca

Decidedly upscale and and oh-so-sophisticated, the Salamanca neighborhood is all about international brand-name stores, broad luxurious avenues, trendy boutiques and fabulous restaurants.

Salamanca

If you love food and food adventures, head to La Latina’s Cava Baja Street for a real treat. This street is lined with tapas bars of every imaginable type. Eat your way up and down the street then find one of the neighborhood’s little plazas.

La Latina

Much like New York with its variety of ethnic restaurants, Lavapies has an eclectic collection of multicultural restaurants from Mexican to Malaysian, Ukrainian to South Indian just in case you’re in the mood to try something other than traditional Spanish fare.

Lavapies

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Travels with Talek