Heading to live in Alcalá for a month, looking for spare thoughts.
So, what are some things a traveler/student should know about Madrid? I'd love to hear thoughts on dress, activities, food, etc.!
For example, I know I shouldn't wear shorts, but are short skirts ok?
Reply to this Hi Cat,
Madrid is a great place to live and there are lots of international students, particularly American, there. The cost of living has gone up since we lived there, but it's still quite reasonable for some nice tapas and some beers.
What do you mean about shorts? Spain is a western European country and the cultural norms for dress are very similar to other western countries.
One big difference between Spain and the UK is the timing of nightlife. It's typical to meet for dinner at about 10pm or later and then go out dancing afterwards until dawn. People don't drink huge amounts of alcohol, but stay out for long periods of time. It's quite tiring at first, but facinating to watch families out eating and old women walking their dogs at 3 in the morning!
A long time travelblogger
Liliram has recently written some great blogs about free and cheap day trips from Madrid and various places to eat and drink that you might be interested in.
Is there anything specific you want to know?
Reply to this Thanks for the help! There wasn't really anything specific, but all of that is helpful, especially the link to other blogs to read. Thank you!
Reply to this You have to learn to eat late and sleep early in the morning. Adapt when it comes to shopping because of the siesta.
People like their football. You gonna like it there. It is not my favorite city,but I am sure being there on an exchange will be a great experience. Have fun.
Reply to this In response to: Msg #156938
Hi Cat,
Since you are a student, you may want to visit the Prado Museum. They have magnificent materpieces in there and you will learn a lot about Madrid through the art works that are displayed in there. El Rastro will also be a good place for you, it's a public market that offers lots of products from Madrid. I enjoyed my stay there mainly because of the very nice accommodation that I got from <snip>. They gave me access to most tourist spots and thus I have my time maximized.
[Edited: 2012 Jun 14 22:36 - The Travel Camel:11053 - No gratuitous link dropping on this forum]
Reply to this Thanks for the recommendations!
I've heard about those but haven't made it yet... your encouragement will ensure that I go next week!
Reply to this 
