Stephanie_diary_entry_1

Dear Diary,

Day one in Spain started off fantastic landed in Madrid from there we got a shuttle bus from airport to the hotel which was 4 stars and named Hotel Lusso Infantas. It was stunning outside and in, with modern furniture, electronics, elegant design and had touch of excellence. After checking in and getting to the room my friend and I got sorted and feeling rather tired had a small siesta to gather energy back. We wanted to find out what is good to see around Madrid, I asked concierge about things to do while in Madrid. The woman at the desk suggested day trips so taking this information we headed off to near by train station and headed out to //Toledo// it took about 1.5-2hrs to reach the desired destination however once there the place gave off an incredible mood as the city's architecture reflects the many influences and cultures present throughout its long history. After a few hours of looking around looking at the Cathedral and Museums, got back on the train and headed for **//Aranjuez: a former Royal Summer residence//**. The first thing one notices when approaching Aranjuéz is its lush greenery, in sharp contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. Friend and I sore the 18th century //Palacio Real// (Royal Palace), the //Casa del Labrador// (Labourer's Cottage) and some remarkably fine gardens, especially the //Jardin del Príncipe// (Prince's Gardens). Since Aranjuéz lies about halfway between Madrid and Toledo took the liberty to going out from Madrid to visit both sites. As the day proceeded I had some Tapas for lunch and as it was getting late and took few hours to get back to the Hotel in Madrid I looked in my tourist guide book to decide on where to have dinner, my friend and I choose at //El Bodegon// which had a really relaxed ambience, beautiful artworks lining the walls and its said to have the finest cuisine and quality ingredients used, with a wide dinner selection and it sure did. After the long day we had, and delicious dinner just returned back to the hotel and took it all in and thought about what we will do tomorrow. Pictures taken throught the day (The Hotel) (Aranjuez monument)

Stephanie Reid