I only meant to walk off all those chocolate bars I ate. Perhaps even contemplate a little after visiting a convent. No camera strung around my neck. Today I’m a local enjoying Madrid’s gardens and parks. I tried talking to Siri but she just kept misunderstanding every word I said. I finally gave up.
From Atocha Station, I crossed the street towards Prado. As I passed the Botanical Garden, I glimpsed tulips in lively colors and knew I couldn’t skip a visit here. Yellow, deep red, pink, even purple! From the flower gardens to the forest of trees surrounding a pond, the tranquility of spending a good hour here is just what I need. I only wish I brought my book!
Siri, who couldn’t understand a word of what I’m saying š proved handy as I snapped photos with my iPhone cam. From the Botanical Garden, I strolled towards the Iglesia de San Jeronimo. A lovely church especially at night when it is illuminated as a perfect background to the Prado Museum. Turning right as I passed the church, I crossed the street to enter Parque de Retiro. This park is more easily accessed from the Metro Line 2 (Red) Retiro Station, but if you’re guilty over some chocolate pleasures lately, it’s a better, longer stroll from this gate towards the metro station.
Rather than walk straight towards the boating lake, I strolled off towards Palacio Cristal. There is a smaller, charming pond here complete with geese hungry for potato chips and cheese curls. I saw some tourists feeding them such and I can’t say that’s good for these geese. With the same iPhone cam, I took a video of a street artist whose music is so apt for a lazy afternoon like now.
Finally, I passed the boating lake till I reached the Retiro Station for my metro ride home. But not without stopping for a snapshot of Plaza de la Independencia and Puerta de Alcala. Not the best shot as it is against the light. But who’s complaining? Siri was such a lovely companion today. Esta bien!
lifeisacelebration 
the floor is blooming ! very beautiful ! thanx for sharing !
Oh Tita! i looove your date with Siri!
Will be reading back about everything espana! que hermosa!
Hahaha. I love Suri even when she drives me crazy sometimes!
*i mean Siri
Hello poh…i use to follow all your post as i love travelling also. .thanks for your lovely photo blogs about Madrid. Madame, I am a lady from Tarlac, really interested where u stayed in Madrid, is that ur relatives apartment? is that for rent? kabayan po ako na OFW dito sa UAE, i am planning to go for annual leave on March next year and to spent my 30days somewhere in EUROPE, and Madrid is on my top list. I’ve been to Paris last year and wish to come back as my side trip from Spain. Hope you can help me to suggest where to stay. Thanks…and God Bless po..
Oh, thanks for following my blogs. I actually stayed with my niece. And no it’s not for rent. I do know there are hostels around Madrid where you can stay. I googled a few before and found some near the Puerta del Sol area. Ideal location!
thanks for the info..i will check from there…