This trip is slightly different to other trips I’ve done. It wasn’t solo or with one other person. I wasn’t even with a small group of people. I was with around 30 students and lecturers from my university. The trip was planned by my department leader and included students from any subject in music, media and performance. I have to admit, I was slightly worried about suddenly travelling with so many people. As a solo traveller, I’m used to travelling my own way and creating my own adventures.

Arriving to our hostel from the airport, the first thing I admired was the architecture. If you are into architecture or study it, maybe you can talk about this in a more elegant but scientific way. It’s European but also… Spanish. Round of applause for my astute observation. It has all the grandeur and historical implications of many European buildings but there’s something about the shapes and structures that I’ve only ever seen when I’ve visited or seen pictures of Spain. It’s something I can’t quite put my finger on. It’s a small note but I find it interesting nonetheless.

Spanish food is some of my favourite in the world. I have seen it described as ‘a celebration of flavours’ and that’s how it feels. Something about it encourages you to savour and celebrate every bite. Most of my classmates didn’t agree and ended up going to Mcdonalds for most meals. Hey, in fairness to them, they probably wanted to see how different the menu was to the uk (and order beer.) Unfortunately, I didn’t get much opportunity to try the food but I know for a fact I’ll be back in Spain again in the future so it isn’t that much of a problem.

The first night was the only time we went to a local tapas place, recommended by someone who had lived there. The atmosphere and decoration felt authentic and the food was divine as expected. We then went to a bar on the main street where there was a fantastic band playing. They had brilliant stage presence and so much talent the lead singer was able to play with the guitar behind his back. All in all night one was a lovely first night.

Of course there’s many historical landmarks like the Palace and Cathedral which were great to walk around. There’s food markets with arrays of different dishes, spices and ingredients. It’s also generally quite exciting to walk around and explore. One of the biggest activities, however, that us university students wanted to do, was drink.

Let me tell you there was plenty of famous bars and hidden gems to visit from rooftop bars to local tavernas. One thing that fell slightly short for me, was that there wasn’t many clubs that I could find. The ones we could often had no one in and tourist sales people outside trying to scam you to enter. This is a shame because every time I’ve been in Spain, my favourite part has been the nightlife and vibrant party culture.

Madrid palace. Unfortunately with my face in it.

On one of the days there was a festival with live music and events on. Not a lot of people stayed until the live music but I’m glad I did because it was one of the highlights of the trip. People of all ages were singing and dancing along having a merry old time.

You’re probably thinking ‘What was it like holidaying with 30 other university students together in one hostel?’ and the answer is: chaotic. That’s all I’m going to say about it. If you, yourself, were on the trip, you’re probably scoffing and saying ‘that’s one way to put it.’ This, however is a travel blog and not a gossip journal so I’ll leave it up to everyone’s imagination to decide what happened on the Chester university Madrid trip.

Overall, I had a great time. Madrid is a lovely place and we all have some fantastic memories. There were things I learnt about myself and how I like to travel. I’m happy to do another one of these trips again but for now, I think I’ll stick to solo trips.

-Elisha xoxo

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