Toledo and Madrid, last day

 My last day in Madrid, and with Sergio working all day, I decided to visit Toledo, a city I’ve always wanted to go to, as I remember my father going there when I was young.

It wasn’t perhaps the most sensible decision given the heat and my very sore feet, one with horrendous blisters on the heel and the other with a strained ankle.  Anyway, that’s part of travelling and you just carry on!
There were parts of the day I really enjoyed, especially on arrival looking down from the city walls. Fortunately, they have an incredible set of escalators to get you up to the old city. Great news.
I had thought Madrid was busy, but nothing can prepare you for the armies of groups which march four abreast down the pavement, guide in front with umbrella or flag, pushing anyone foolish enough to be heading against the wave onto the road. Although the streets are narrow, there’s plenty of traffic, so beware.
I very quickly discovered that there were plenty of pedestrian streets where the masses didn’t seem to be. These were really pleasant and I had a great time in lesser known areas.
I would have loved to have taken back a couple of these tapestry cushion covers, but have to think of every kilo I need to carry unfortunately. There are lots of trips ahead.
It is a beautiful place, especially with the lovely earthy colours
By mid afternoon I was exhausted and headed , or should I say hobbled’ back to the bus station. Because I had been avoiding crowds, I ended up on a sort of ring road, which was very pretty, but stiflingly hot. Outside the city walls was this large structure commemorating those who died during Covid. It must have been a dreadful time, especially with such dense housing and narrow streets.
What magnificent gates to the city
In the evening Sergio and I met for a last time on this visit. After a tasty meal at a local Lebanese restaurant, we strolled down the road a little, found a comfortable bench and spent the next hours laughing and chatting until well into the next day. That is Spain! No need for largest houses to entertain in, there are marvellous places outside, in the parks, restaurants, or on a simple street bench. What matters is the company!
My great thanks to the Polyglot gathering of 2025 for giving me the chance to meet Sergio this time last year., and to him for giving up so much of his precious free time in a busy lifestyle.





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