Madrid happened because the NFL game was here and it was Bub’s bye week - so since we were so close we planned to go. The game and experience did not disappoint. Fans from around the world and in all different NFL jerseys were there. People took photos with us in our Chiefs gear. Barnabeu, the stadium is where Real Madrid plays, was incredible (including indoor fireworks). There were flamenco performers and bands around the stadium. We all definitely recommend an international NFL game - and we want to go to a Real Madrid game!
It’s a crazy busy city. Tons of people are out on the streets and in cafes and bars until well after midnight. Brayden and Carlie went to her favorite club and it doesn’t even really get going until 1 am! Nate and I were in bed by then.
We found a Christmas market that was largely food with just a few merchandise vendors. It was buzzing with people and energy.
Tons of sidewalk cafes/restaurants with sidewalk seating that all looked incredible but we only were able to make it to one.
The first night Nate, Bub and Carlie stayed near San Anton Market. This was a great area. Then we moved closer to the stadium into a neighborhood Air BnB. Pro tip: Searching for “breakfast” or “brunch” turned up few results, however when we walked around there were a lot of nearby options. So unsure what to search, but it’s not that.
And the absolute craziest thing happened. Bub spotted a guy in a Blue Springs High School letterman jacket - identical to Nate’s. We stopped him and it’s a jacket of someone who played with Nate in high school! This guy just bought it off of eBay Vintage.
Also, extremely important: The airport is huge and there are a zillion people. Even though we’d already checked in online we had to stand in line for about 45 minutes to check our luggage. And then go through security (buy the Fast Track and be sure to find the Fast Track area that is separate from regular security). And then go through passport control. . . It took at least 90 minutes from the time we got to the airport until we were through all of that. If you aren’t checking a bag then it’s generally fine. Bub and Carlie got through security in 3 minutes earlier this morning.
We weren’t able to explore as much in Madrid as I would have liked since this was really centered on the game, so I guess we’ll just have to come back some day!
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