Madrid is a special place

Returning to Madrid is like seeing an old love interest that you didn't want to end. There is a special place in your heart for them and a good feeling in your stomach. However arriving in winter is the opposite of summer. The air is crisp and cold, the trees dead with no leaves but the love for fútbol, still the same. Being back in Madrid was a journey long awaited. Too long if you ask me.

Being an avid fútbol fan, it is great to see the games on at the bars. Nothing beats sitting down or standing-up in a crowded bar with an ice cold Mahou watching the Copa del Rey, La Liga or whichever game, tournament or league happens to be on. Talk about passion for their team. In the States, the closest thing to this would be football fans tailgating. But even this doesn't compare to the passion fútbol fans share for their respective teams.

While in Madrid the first time, I was fortunate enough to make friends with a couple of Madrileños. One of them runs a restaurant, called Corral de la Pacheca, that provides one of the best Flamenco shows in Madrid. We've kept in contact and decided to meet up. I went down the restaurant to watch the show, an hour and a half of great music, beautiful dancing and amazing food. After the show, I stayed for a few beers and caught up with my two friends.

Sadly, the trip back to Madrid was short lived. You can never get enough of a place that you enjoy so much. However, I know I'll be back soon, especially since Valencia is only four hours away.