Seize the Moment: 24 hours in Madrid, Spain

The notion of escaping to a foreign land is an idea that excites many. Experiencing a different culture and all that that entails: food, drink, architecture, and general way of life, is something that everyone should do as much as possible. It allows you to further your own being, developing new relationships and experiences along the way. It’s one thing planning a well thought out trip though, and quite another to seize the moment and travel on a whim.

Whilst the former is thrilling in its build-up and anticipation, the latter is exciting in a completely fresh, new way. Last minute trips don’t give your mind the chance to plan what’s going to happen or what you’re going to do, and all of a sudden you’ll find yourself jumping on a plane and escaping before you’ve had a chance to process what’s actually happening. This is what it’s all about.

This was exactly my method of thinking when I was invited by British Airways to take part in a compelling challenge. Alongside Emily Johnston of , Fashion Fois Gras, we were about to embark on a trip like no other. The basic premise was to secretly plan each other’s break; choosing the destination city, as well as the activities in which we each undertook. This is more challenging than you might think, especially when you have never met that person before.

I was tasked with heading on a short trip to Madrid, capital of Spain. Whilst the weather was pleasant, it was particularly cold, although it wasn’t a patch on Emily, who I had sent to Helsinki. With the winter sun keeping me suitably thawed, the weekend in Madrid sailed by. It’s a city of gastronomic delights, the likes of which I experienced in some of the many tapas bars and restaurants, one of which served steak that would rival that of any Argentine get-up.

In terms of activities and events, there was plenty to do. Pry yourself away from the wine for a moment, and you can easily take in a number of inspiring buildings including the Grand Palace, the Almudena Cathedral and the nearby crypt, one of the prettiest in all of Spain. For a short weekend break, there are few places quite as enjoyable, or as conveniently located as Madrid.