30 Nov 2021

A homestay is for sure my preferable type of accommodation

Tell us about your homestay experience.

In a homestay, differently from a hotel, you get a much more personal experience and understanding of the culture and language of your country of choice. Besides being a more affordable option, a homestay allows you to develop a true friendship with your hosts and to meet new people in a much easier way. Along with that, your hosts will always be able to answer questions about the surrounding areas and recommend you places to go or help you find what you need. A homestay is for sure my preferable type of accommodation.

What did you do in Madrid?

I visited museums, art galleries, parks, popular restaurants and walked around the whole city. I also did a group tour to Avila and Salamanca, and Toledo and Segovia. I truly recommend those. I absolutely fell in love with Madrid and with Spain. The night life in the city is also very prominent and lively. There is so much beauty in each corner of the city. One of the experiences that most surprised me was a Flamenco show that I went to. I am part Spanish and that was the first time I felt the Spanish blood rushing in me. Madrid is beautiful and welcoming, and you won't regret exploring it.

Any tips or advice for other travellers?

I would recommend watching a Flamenco show (mine was scheduled along with a walking tour around the area of Plaza Mayor, and ended with a dinner and show at a Flamenco house. I booked mine through Amigo Tours.). Not only is it a essential part of the Spanish culture, but it is also a truly unique and intense experience. Music and Dance are such intimate forms of expression. Trust me, the show will surprise you. I also recommend taking group tours to the surrounding historical towns, and would also recommend a full-day tour to Toledo. Something to not miss out on is the El Rastro market, which happens every Sunday from 8:30 AM to around 2 PM. Also recommend going to the popular restaurant El Madroño, very near Plaza Mayor, and tasting the unique Madroño liquour, served in a chocolate wafer shot glass, for 2 euros. So good!!

How was your experience with your host?

My experience with the host family was absolutely wonderful. Not only were they very kind and helpful, making everything possible for me to feel comfortable and safe, but we also developed a frienship through casual and profound conversations. Learning a little about their life-story was very enriching and also taught me a lot about the Spanish culture, language, and manners.