A little over a month ago I had the chance to spend a fun-filled, 12-hour day with Rick Steves, who was in town updating the Madrid chapter of his 2017 Spain guidebook.  Rick likes to meet up with local guides …

Last update: June 10, 2016

It’s one of the most unmistakable symbols of the Spanish lunch. Found in the humblest of bars, or the most elegant of restaurants. Enjoyed by those looking to fill up on a budget, by those seeking a relatively quick bite, but in …

Last update: March 7, 2014

This interview with American actor Jimmy Shaw is the first of a series of interviews, in which I’ll be talking to various expats from diverse backgrounds, who all share one thing: they’ve made Madrid their home. I’ll be asking about …

Last update: March 7, 2014

When I look at these faces, it’s hard not to smile.  There is, what I might call, a good-natured glow that washes over me.  Once you take your eyes off the pig, I’m sure you’ll feel it too.  For me, …

Last update: March 7, 2014

How many of us have moved to a new city, or even just a new neighborhood, bursting with excitement to explore and discover our soon-to-be favorite spots?  Before getting down to the boring business of work and daily routine, there’s …

Last update: March 7, 2014

Growing up in a small city, where green spaces and parks were abundant, I always assumed - in my adolescent frame of mind - that these giant playgrounds existed solely for our enjoyment and always promised to be there without …

Last update: March 7, 2014

Following my move to Spain, one of the most common questions I was asked by friends back home, was whether I had gone to a bullfight.  That this should be one of their first questions always struck me as strange, …

Last update: March 7, 2014

After my second year in Spain - once I was no longer penniless and living in a closet (it was a big closet) - I discovered the world of discount airlines.  For less than 100€, I could fly to a …

Last update: March 7, 2014