My fellow book lovers, do we agree that there are few greater pleasures in this life than finding a charming and well-stocked bookstore? If you are in Madrid, you are in luck; the delightful Desperate Literature International Bookshop caters for the most avid bookworms! You can lose yourself in their well-stocked shelves; I challenge you to leave empty-handed! Because a spending splurge on books is the only splurge that is guilt-free in my opinion - am I right?
There is a great selection of pre-loved books in a variety of languages, so you can also find some amazing bargains. You can buy something unique too; the shortlisted stories of Desperate Literature’s International annual short story competition. This year’s (Eleven Stories 2023) is out now.
Stop by the Galería de la Colecciónes Reales and maybe pick up something sweet at Santa Eulalia Patisserie while in the neighbourhood!
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Since 1615, San Antonio de los Alemanes has been the home of La Hermandad del Refugio, an association that helps those in need through meals and donations.
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Everything is so flavourful and tasty! It’s difficult not to always eat the same things I know and love so I try to get something different every time I go.
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As you enter, rows of food stalls line this cool, industrial space, and stepping in here is like being transported to the bustling food markets of Asia.
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This is one of the most diverse spaces in the city for arts and culture and it is evident that the folks here take a great deal of pride in their work.
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Sunset is the perfect time to come and visit La Dama del Manzanares. Not only will you get a natural light show in the sky, but she comes alive as well.
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Café del Art is not only a great place for a liquid pick-me-up, but they also offer delicious snacks such as traditional tostadas or carrot cake.
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The books are the star of the show here, and Bar de Libros has a beautiful collection devoted to poetry, fiction, philosophy, and the classics.
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Picking up my favourite mints and walking around the streets of Madrid with La Pajarita's classic pink and blue bag always makes my day feel extra special.
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St. Anthony of Padua is one of Madrid’s finest examples of Neoclassical art. The interior is austere, but its ceiling is where the magic lies.
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Comfy burgundy, cream, and blue chairs, flanked by a wooden bookshelf and bar, are softly lit by candles and dim, tasseled chandeliers.
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Non-profit La Gatoteca partners with ABRIGA, a rescue organization committed to feline well-being, and all of the cats here are available for adoption.
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My favourite part is that for 5 euros, you receive 6 tickets which allow you to hop from stall to stall enjoying generous food and drink samples.
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