Mercado San Miguel, Madrid

It's been something of a Spanish year in terms of trips in 2018... My mum turned 60 four years ago, and our present to her then was a long weekend in Madrid (having been there two years before for my father-in-law's 70th); but organising free weekends was virtually impossible, despite her protestations to not really be doing much most of the time.

Anyway, the weather on arrival, after a 4.30am start, was somewhat warmer than forecast, which made a bit of a first day wander really rather pleasant. And a busy wander it was. There's a vibe here that just buzzes. The Spanish tend to stay out later anyway, having started later than we do at home, and even at 11pm there were crowds in the streets, making the most of anything. The numbers are bolstered by the numbers of tourists, with lots of British and American accents, and loads of French visitors, rambling about.

Most importantly, mum seems to like the place on fist impression, likes the hotel, and is looking forward to the lightly-organised, play-it-by-ear days ahead.

For my part, I did my usual and went back out after she turned in for the night (the early start, and lots of walking tired her out like an over-excited puppy), taking in Mercado San Miguel again(we'd gone for lunch when it was hooching, and while still busy, I was able to find a spot for some beer and nibbles - one of my favourite places in Madrid from the previous visit).