Stylish Sojourn in Madrid
Join us as we explore the vibrant capital of Spain, Madrid, through the eyes of fashion stylist Cathie Arquilla. In this episode, we delve into why Madrid is emerging as a premier destination for luxury shopping, world-class culture, and culinary delights that offer a distinctly Spanish flair.
Cathie shares her insights from a whirlwind three-day visit, highlighting key shopping neighborhoods like the upscale Calle Serrano and the eclectic El Rastro, where every style and taste can find something special. We also discuss standout spots such as Casa Loi, renowned for its modernist design and high-quality leather goods, and unique boutiques like Hoff Shoes, where shopping meets a cozy café experience.
Alongside shopping, we touch upon Madrid’s culinary scene, featuring exquisite dining options like El Paraguay, known for its delectable Iberian ham and a blend of traditional and modern Spanish cuisine.
A stylish sojourn seeking the best in shopping, style and fun in Madrid. GoNOMAD Writer and fashion stylist Cathie Arquilla visits Madrid and suggests some notable stops to enjoy.
Transcript
Today on Go Nomad, we're heading to the heart of Spain, Madrid with longtime Go Nomad contributor and fashion stylist Cathy Arquilla, who recently spent three whirlwind days uncovering what's fabulous in this vibrant capital.
Speaker A:Kathy's TAKE Step aside Paris and Rome Madrid offers the same luxury shopping, world class culture and culinary delights with a distinctly Spanish flair.
Speaker A:It's a city that's drawing more and more visitors to from Central and South America, many of whom come from Broadway level theater performed in Spanish.
Speaker A:But Madrid's appeal goes far beyond the stage.
Speaker A:Let's start with the shopping, because when a professional stylist like Cather Aquilla says Madrid's a shopper's paradise, you listen.
Speaker A:She recommends exploring at least two of the city's five distinct shopping neighborhoods.
Speaker A:From the upscale Calle Serrano, known as the Golden Mile, to the bohemian flea market vibe of El Rostro, Madrid offers treasure for every taste of one standout Casa Loi on Calle Serrano in the Salamanca district.
Speaker A:Loy, pronounced Lou vey vey, is Madrid's most iconic fashion brand, and its flagship store is a masterpiece in modernist design.
Speaker A:Soft shapes, muted tones and luxurious leather goods make it feel like you've stepped into a painting.
Speaker A:Spaniards swear by Loe Veve's craftsmanship, claiming it's the best leather quality of any luxury house.
Speaker A:ree, the brand's legacy since:Speaker A:But Salamanca isn't just high fashion.
Speaker A:Cathy discovered Hoff Shoes, a groovy sneaker boutique with a matcha and coffee bar tucked inside.
Speaker A:Neutral suede sneakers are trending, and yes, she snagged a pair.
Speaker A:Madrid's VAT hovers around 15%, and stores make it easy to claim your refund, so keep those receipts.
Speaker A:Now let's talk food.
Speaker A:Cathy describes El Paraguay, also in Salamanca, as a plush pos and highly civilized.
Speaker A:It's the kind of place where lunch starts at 2pm and the Iberian ham melts in your mouth.
Speaker A:Anchovies with avocado divine.
Speaker A:The chefs draw inspiration from northern Spain, blending tradition with sophistication.
Speaker A:With only three days in Madrid, Cathay had to make some tough choices.
Speaker A:She skipped the Museo Reina Sofia yes, the one with Picasso's Guernica, but made up for it with a private tour of the Prado Museum.
Speaker A:Her advice?
Speaker A:Don't go it alone.
Speaker A:A vetted guide can help you navigate the masterpieces of Alaquez Angoula, making the experience unforgettable.
Speaker A:One of Madrid's newest cultural gems is the Galleria de la Collection Reales or the Royal Collections Gallery.
Speaker A:Built into the hillside across from the Royal palace, this museum showcases five centuries of Spanish royal artifacts, furniture, armor, tapestries, even carriages, all in a sleek, contemporary setting.
Speaker A:It's affordable, uncrowded and has a cafe with a view well more can you ask for.
Speaker A:From there, wander to Plaza Mayor, the historic heart of Madrid.
Speaker A:Just steps away is the Mercado de San Miguel, a covered market bursting with tapas, wine and the best jamon sandwich Cathy's ever had.
Speaker A:Just jamon on a baguette.
Speaker A:But oh what jamon.
Speaker A:These acorn fed pigs roam oak forests and the result is melt in your mouth magic you'll only find in Spain.
Speaker A:As you stroll up the gran Via, the city's Old World charm meets its 20th century grandeur.
Speaker A:It spills onto Central Castle Cana Glass, home of the Four Seasons Madrid and the ultra luxe Galleria Cana Glass.
Speaker A:Think Cartier, Valentino and Tom Ford, plus restored bank vaults and neoclassical architecture that pay homage to the building's past.
Speaker A:Kathy's advice?
Speaker A:Leave your cargo shorts and fanny packs in your suitcase.
Speaker A:This is the place to dress up and dream.
Speaker A:To wrap up her trip, Kathy stayed at the U Music Hotel, a stylist conversion of a historic music hall.
Speaker A:Jet lagged but enchanted, she napped, dined at 9pm Like a true Madridelina and wandered antique streets to a nearby Taberna.
Speaker A:Sitting street side, sipping red wine and watching the world go by, she felt the intoxicating magic of Madrid.
Speaker A:Or maybe it was the wine.
Speaker A:That's it for today's podcast and enjoy Kathy's article about Madrid on gonomad.com whether you're a fashion buff, fashion lover or just a foodie, Madrid has something for you.
Speaker A:And her guide is a fabulous place to start.
Speaker A:To start.