Good morning, Karolina! Thank you for agreeing to this interview. You have lived in Madrid for three decades.
How would you describe the city to someone who has never visited it? Good morning! Madrid is a city full of life, history and contrasts. It is the capital of Spain and has a lot to offer - from great museums, to charming streets, to modern neighborhoods. It's a place where tradition meets modernity and life moves at a fast pace.
What is worth visiting in Madrid? What places are most important to you? A definite must-see is Plaza Mayor, Madrid's main square, full of cafes and restaurants. The Royal Palace of Madrid is another must-see, as is Almudena Cathedral. And don't miss Retiro Park, which is the perfect place to relax and take a stroll. As for museums, the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza are absolute gems.
How best to get around Madrid Madrid has a very well-developed public transportation network. The metro is the best option - it's fast and cheap, and the lines cover virtually the entire city. You can buy a card for a day, a week or for several stations, giving you a lot of flexibility in your travel. The same card works for all modes of transportation, including buses and city bikes. Buses are also well organized and run frequently. For those who prefer to walk, many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
What is the job situation in Madrid? There are a lot of job opportunities these days, especially for professionals. It is important to know Spanish, at least at a basic level. Knowing the language opens many doors and makes it easier to communicate on a daily basis.
What do you think is the most beautiful thing about Madrid? This is a difficult question, because there are many beautiful places. I love the sunsets seen from Debod Park, where there is an ancient Egyptian temple. Gran VÃa with its impressive architecture and stores is another place that impresses. The atmosphere on Malasaña, a neighborhood full of cafes, bars and artistic corners, is also wonderful.
Are there things to dislike about Madrid? Like any big city, Madrid has its downsides. Sometimes it can get too crowded, especially in the touristy areas. It is very hot here in the summer, with temperatures that can exceed 40 degrees Celsius. During rush hour, public transportation can be crowded, and traffic can be a nuisance. And of course, living in the capital is more expensive than in other parts of the country.
Is it worth the trip to the Spanish capital? Definitely yes! Now getting to Madrid from any part of Spain is very easy, and the AVE train is a fast and cheap option - it's the Spanish equivalent of the Polish Pendolino.
Is there anything you would like to add about Madrid that might be of interest to our readers? Madrid is a city that is alive 24 hours a day. There are plenty of festivals, concerts and cultural events. Regardless of the time of day or night, there is always something to do. Madrid is also a place where you can feel the true Spanish spirit - people here are open, hospitable and with every beer in the bar you get really big and importantly free tapas. I cordially invite everyone to visit this amazing city!
Thank you, Karolina, for this fascinating interview. I think many of our readers will be inspired by your stories and want to visit Madrid.