Our last day in Madrid. Nine days is a good amount of time here. Long enough to really experience the city. Long enough to appreciate it.
We began the day visiting Fundacion Diagrama, a publicly funded social support program for vulnerable individuals. They work to provide education, social skills, and employment training for low-income pops, individuals with disabilities, victims of sexual crimes, troubled youth, and some immigrants populations. Their primary focus is to reeducate and reintegrate these individuals back in the society. Essentially a second chance opportunity for those who need it the most. For immigrant populations, there is even a pathway to citizenship. The instructor, a psychologist, summarized their purpose beautifully… “People who come to us are just learning to be.”
And guess what, they have pretty good evidence that these programs work. I would love to see our criminal justice, immigration, and social support systems follow the similar model where the goal is rehabilitation.
I spent my second half of the day at the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum which completes the Golden Circle of Art in Madrid (along with the Prado and Sofia Reina) for me! And I think I’ve saved the best for last. Many of the most popular artists of all time are featured here, including Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, Matisse, Homer, and Picasso. I share a few of my favorites below, but the collection is massive.
Phew!! That was a lot! It’s 2 pm and time for lunch. The menu del dia (a limited menu lunch deal offered at most restaurants) at the museum looks incredible so I opt for that. My first course was a fried egg on top of a bed of ratatouille. Great movie and a great dish! Second course, the most delicious beef and potatoes I’ve ever had. Seasonal fruit for dessert (should have had the espresso…blarg!) and a glass of white wine to wash it down. This is my favorite meal in Spain so far. Total cost was $24 which is high but worth it. Quick tip: If you order water in Spain, they will likely bring you a bottle of water which they will charge you for (especially if they suspect you as a tourist). If you want free tap water, which is of good quality, you must say Vaso de Agua.
Tomorrow we board the bullet train for Valencia and the second half of our trip. I’m looking forward to a change of scenery. And a few new adventures. Adios Madrid!
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