p>(Note no photos have been added to this post because for some reason, my photos don´t want to upload)
My experience in Madrid thus far has helped me to develop a sense of Independence. In fact, I believe that my experience in Spain has helped me understand that I am capable of doing more than I think. For example, I’ve learned how to take the Metro(which is actually quite easy, although it’s not my preferred form of transportation). But anyway, back to Madrid.

So far, my favorite sites of Madrid have been El Retiro(which is a huge park decorated with many statues, flowers, and fountains) and El Palacio Real(A massive palace that is open to the public for tours, but you can’t take pictures of the inside).

El Retiro was a serene place to collect my thoughts and appreaciate nature. I really enjoyed walking on trails and reflecting. I see nature as a place to escape from the madness of city life(or just regular life). I believe that life’s greatest lessons can be learned when we learn to just embrace the silence. We distract ourselves with so many gadgets that sometimes we forget to take time to disconnect from them and reflect. El Retiro was a nice contrast from Madrid’s metropolitan madness.

The Royal Palace contains the best architecture and decor that I have seen so far in Madrid. Each room had its own purpose and its own unique design. No two rooms were exactly alike. It’s a shame that I wasn’t allowed to take pictures because it was absolutely stunning.

I will upload the photos of other sites soon.