Tripnotes: Madrid, Spain

As promised, I bring you part 1 of my 2-part Thanksgiving Spanish adventure: MADRID!

After taking the red eye from NYC, we landed with empty bellies and so it was off to some of Madrid’s can’t-miss snack spots ( after all…this is Thanksgiving, people!).

La Mallorquina is renowned for traditional Spanish pastries and strongggg coffee. It’s no-nonsense with counter service only on the first floor. For a more relaxed experience, head upstairs for table service where you can linger.

Museo Del Jamon is a literally just that – a museum of ham. Try their 1 euro value menu, where you can score a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, a caña ( a small glass of beer) and pan tumaca - a traditional, open-faced sandwich of Serrano ham, olive oil and tomato seeds on toasted baguette.

After a few quick snacks, we strolled around until it was “officially” time for lunch. Lunches are eaten late in Madrid (as is dinner – usually around 10pm).

I booked us a table at a traditional Spanish “Taberna” with a “menu del dia” – essentially a set menu, usually 3 courses, including wine and coffee.

After a big and tasty lunch, we walked it off and headed to the Palacio Real. The Palacio was gorgeous and a perfect place to snap pics since it was a clear, cool day.

Madrid is full of winding, cobbled and narrow streets. For something a little different, I recommend checking out the area of Chueca – a trendy, gay neighborhood with tons of quirky shops and cafes.

Later, we hit some museums and then it was off to Mercado San Miguel – a newly renovated indoor market with tons of different vendors.

Locals love it for mid-day snacking and drinks.

These were truly tasty tapas.

Late night, we hit a small neighborhood bar for tasty mojitos with fresh mint and bar snacks.

After a few gratis shots from the bartender, we stumbled back to our hotel for some much needed sleep.

Next stop, Barcelona!!