A Love Letter to Madrid
Image Courtesy: Nikki Cohen
Dear Madrid,
When we arrived at your door, the sun was bright, big, and gleaming.
My sister, who had been prospering in all that you had to offer her, greeted us excitedly.
You had become her temporary home, her city, and you were kind enough to welcome us with open arms.
We were ready to begin exploring you.
Image Courtesy: Nikki Cohen
Your locals at El Rastro were eager to sell their colorfully beaded and braided jewelry. Of course, we happily supported them.
The row boats at your big, vibrantly green Retiro Park glided along your glistening pond.
You showed us a flamenco show, which we watched in awe. The claps, snaps, and steps transported us back to when the dance gained popularity on your streets in the 18th century.
Image Courtesy: Nikki Cohen
On a food tour, we learned about and tried your staple meal, bocadillos de calamares, a calamari sandwich. It was crunchy, buttery, and so fresh.
Your Catedral de la Almudena was a rainbow on walls. The stained glass reflected onto the pews, spreading color everywhere.
Your famous Prado Museum showed us masterpieces that displayed deeply pigmented shades of pinks and blues from famous Spanish, Italian, and Flemish artists.
During our visit to you, our favorite moment was seeing Mamma Mia! The Musical live in Spanish. Nothing was more fun than being with my sister and best friend in a new place, singing along to Dancing Queen.
We loved you so and cannot wait to come back. You were nothing short of a dream.
Te veo pronto, Madrid.
Strike Out,
Writer: Nikki Cohen
Editor: Cristina Angee
Tallahassee