Madrid Day 5: Tapa the Morning

Welcome back to M2M dear reader. (Just trying this on).  

Today began with a morning visit to a local private hospital. Private hospitals differ fundamentally from public hospitals in that they are a bit cleaner, offer private rooms, and can be used to care for minor issues more quickly. But public hospitals, are considered better for serious issues. To use a private hospital you will need insurance which will run you…wait for it…€50 ($55) per month. 

A private university hospital in Madrid.

Fortunately/unfortunately, our group was able to experience the private process firsthand. One of my students woke up with an eye irritation. It was bothering her enough that she wanted to get it looked at. After meeting with the international translator, she filled out a form and provided her passport number. She was seen by a doctor and described her symptoms. The doctor prescribed a corticosteroid cream, which she filled next-door at the pharmacy. The entire process took 45 minutes and cost €4($5). 

This charming 1 bedroom even has a pullout couch. 

After putting in a solid two hours of work, it was time for an early afternoon tapa (small plate meant to be shared). Fun tip…if you order a drink at a tapa bar, it usually comes with a free tapa. This usually consists of something small like chips, fries, or olives. But some places offer a menu of options which are a bit more substantial.   I must say, this is one of my favorite things about Madrid thus far. 

You know what they say, “It’s 1 o’clock somewhere.”

On my way back to the hotel, in a post-tapa state of bliss, I learned a very important lesson. Vehicles do not stop for pedestrians. Nunca! While Madrid is very walkable, vehicles seem to have right of way. I will say that while you may get smoked by a car, at least you’ll meet your maker knowing your assailant was eco friendly. A law in Madrid requires all cars be electric, significantly limiting pollution.  

In fact, the only smoke you will smell would be of a tobacco nature. And there is a lot of smoking! Progress has been made in this area, however, through public health laws that prohibit smoking indoors. But in the streets, you “smoke ‘em if you got ‘em” as they say. (Don’t worry Brandi, I’ve not yet succumb to the Devil’s Toothpick.)

The day was capped with a visit to El Retiro Park (which means Good Retreat Park). This 350 acre behemoth is filled with hanging trees, manicured shrubs, sculptures, trails, cafes, and even its own lake. It was recently designated as a UNESCO Workd Heritage Center. 

Collectively, I’m struck by Madrid’s commitment to both its citizens and the environment they all share. Clean air, clean water, green space, energy efficient buildings. All important factors that contribute to the overall health and well-being of the people lucky enough to live here. 

El Retiro Park. Good students. Creepy statue.