A Much Needed Lazy Day

Our last stop in Spain, the capital Madrid. As my friend and I had both been here before, today's theme was churros, spa and do nothing, except maybe shop. It was a bit of a city shock, arriving at Puerta Atocha, Madrid's main train station. We'd gone from a chill seaside city to a cultural city to a modern metropolis. We miss the former already, but hey, we're here to transit onwards.

Our hotel was located near the palaces, and some of the sites we passed brought up memories of times past. After checking in, it was off to San Gines for churros. This chocolateria was founded in 1894 and the decor is still dated. You almost feel like you've travelled a bit back in time.

At 5pm, I set off to Hammam al Andalus for a little spa time. I'd read about this hammam before, and it's a great way to wrap up this leg of the trip, especially with all the hiking and backpack lugging. Perhaps not the best idea to hoist the backpack the next day, but I'm still glad I went.

These are contemporary Arabic style baths and the decor transports you back in time as well. Old brick walls are the feature and candle lit lanterns add a soft light to peaceful atmosphere. I wish they had a little more music though to add to the relaxing space. They have 3 pools of water to soak in before heading to your treatment. The cold water one I could only manage to dunk my legs, before returning to the warmest pool where I spent most of my time. No photos of the inside of course, but the ones on the website definitely matches.

I chose the Midra 30 package with includes 60 minutes in the baths, followed by a 15 minute purification on a hot stone bed and a 15 minute massage. The purification is a scrub using a hand mitt and you get to take it home. Most of the staff don't speak English, but we managed fine. My masseuse picked out the oil as I couldn't decide, and it was just right, not strong at all. In hindsight, I should've booked the Midra 45 instead, which would give me 45 minutes in the bath and a 30 minute massage instead. 15 isn't quite enough, and really only time to do the upper body. With all the hiking we did, I'm sure my legs could've used some work as well. Also, I'm not that good with sitting still and ended up leaving a little before my session was over, as I didn't want to get back in the baths after the treatment.

Last dinner in Spain - La Barraca for one more paella and grilled prawns.Read more