Our experience with Madrid two years ago was a let down from the weeks we had spent on the Camino. Having been directed to the Malasaña neighborhood for this visit made all the difference. Our time here has been much more relaxing, allowing us to perfect the Spanish art of Strolling.

But that is not to say we didn’t work in a few activities. Thursday morning we met our guide Theo for our Walk and Eat tour. Food reveals much about the culture of a country. We started with Churros and chocolate, followed by a visit to a Pork butcher and a lesson in Jamon.

Then we went to a nonprofit olive oil store for a lesson and tasting. Spain produces twice the amount olive oil of Italy and Greece combined. Do you know the difference between Extra Virgin and Virgin olive oil? We do now!

There was also the olive and sardine vendor who Becky thought was a dead ringer for Jeremy Renner ( not sure I see it?)!

But Theo saved the best for last; a real market experience where we spent most our time at the craft beer booth.

Tip: seek out the dining spots at the markets as you know all the ingredients are fresh.

So after another great dinner (sorry, no pictures of food) we readied for the next day tour of Madrid’s Prada Art Museum. Lucky for you there is a no photo policy. The big surprise were the psychedelic paintings of Bosch. He was way ahead of his time.

After the museum we strolled through the Parque de El Retiro until it started to feel like the Madrid of the past.

At that point we ducked back into comfort of our neighborhood and the solace of a Tinto Verano.

We had one more great dinner, and Becky was again making new friends.

Tomorrow we head to Burgos leaving behind a Madrid we now love.