Plaza Mayor, Madrid

I left Barcelona in wind and drizzle which turned to proper rain just as I’d reached the main station. I thought I’d left an overly generous amount of time to find the right platform and so on, however I had not accounted for the airport type security so I didn’t have to wait long for the train to leave which it did a minute early. What a contrast to the fleet of Avanti trains.
This one was immaculately clean, nearly all the seats had a window, super fast Wi-Fi – tremendous value, especially with my tarjeta de dorada .

I arrived in Madrid three hours later to sunshine and a strong breeze, much colder here around 10 degrees. I staying in the oldest hotel, allegedly, in the city – just off the main Plaza Mayor Square, and it’s wonderful contrast to my hostel in Barcelona. The receptionist was very patient and we had a short conversation about the fuerte brisa / strong breeze.

Switched my plans for tomorrow on account of a promising weather forecast and a dire one for Wednesday which is another benefit of doing these things solo.

After a healthy picnic lunch on the train I’m having chocolate and churros for supper.