Getting lost in the culture of Madrid... by Sophie DenUyl



One of the coolest (and most interesting) parts of Madrid for me has been just simply getting lost and finding my way again. I've learned that getting lost is the best way to get to know a city, because you meet random people and see random things. The first time I tried to use the metro I was very nervous because I have a terrible sense of direction (like really bad). Also, I'm from the metropolis of Little Compton RI (just kidding we don't even have a grocery store) so I'm not really used to metros.  When I tried to get on the train to go home to my apartment, I sort of guessed which way the "blue line" would be heading. In a last ditch effort to see if I was going to get home, I asked a woman if I could get to the neighborhood where I'm staying (Pacifico) on this train. She said "No, no! It's going in the opposite direction!" I ran off the train seconds before the doors shut, and eventually I found the right one. Overall, the first few days, I got lost A  LOT. Sometimes when I tried to ask for directions in Spanish, people immediately answered me in English (I guess they sensed my American-ness...) One time, I couldn't find my apartment from the metro station and I ended up following a family home who lived on the same street (not in a creepy way though). What I've realized is that it can be very fun to be lost sometimes. Also, while I'm talking about the metro... I have heard some incredible music in the stations and also in the trains themselves: from guitar, to accordian, to saxaphone... (sometimes people just belt out their favorite tune!). In fact, in Madrid, people actually have to audition to be able to play in the metro stations!

Another way that I have plunged into the wonderful Spanish culture is by living in a house that only speaks Spanish. My host-mom is super cool and she has a 9-year old son and a chihuahua. Its been a challenge (but so fun at the same time) communicating with my host-mom, Maria. For example, the other day I wanted more toilet paper but I didn't know how to say the word in Spanish. Eventually, she figured it out when I said "the paper you use in the bathroom." It's also been interesting talking to Maria, and other Spanish people, about the economic crisis that is going on in Spain. When I was watching the news with Maria the other day she taught me a lot about what was going on and the effects she thought it would have in the future. She actually works for one of the banks that is having so much trouble right now. Also, Maria is a very good cook. Last night for dinner, we had delicious fish with anguilas (baby eels common in Spanish cooking), french bread, and broccoli soaked in olive oil, with delicious cake for desert. I think my favorite Spanish food so far is paella.
So far, I'm totally enamored by Spain and its culture and beauty (even if I do get lost a lot)!