Some trips are planned for weeks or months, and others are born from a moment of madness and spontaneity. My one-day trip to Madrid in December 2017 was undoubtedly one of the latter—a whirlwind adventure filled with exhaustion, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
How It All Began
At the time, I was working for a company undergoing restructuring. A few colleagues were leaving, and I suggested a final team outing—a night out in London to mark the end of an era. But as the idea developed, I proposed something even more exciting: a day trip to Paris via Eurostar. Why settle for a local pub when we could cross borders for a meal and create memories that would last forever?
The team loved the idea. However, by the time I collected the money from everyone, the Eurostar fares had surged, and Paris was no longer an option within our budget. But I wasn’t ready to give up just yet. With £100 from each colleague and their blessing to take a leap of faith, I found an alternative: Madrid.
Yes, Madrid. An early morning flight from Luton Airport, a full day in the Spanish capital, and a late-night return to London. It was crazy, but that’s what made it so special.
The Day in Madrid
Our adventure began in the dark hours of the morning at Luton Airport. After the usual hustle through security and a caffeine boost, we boarded our flight. A few hours later, we were in Madrid, ready to make the most of every moment.
Although I’d been to Madrid before and enjoyed its cultural highlights like the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofia, this trip was less about ticking off tourist spots and more about soaking in the city’s energy during the festive season.
We kicked off our day with a visit to the Royal Palace of Madrid, an impressive and grand structure that never fails to awe. Even though we didn’t have time to explore it in detail, just being there felt special.
From there, we wandered through Madrid’s bustling streets to its famous Christmas market at Plaza Mayor. The market was alive with holiday cheer—bright stalls selling decorations, crafts, and food filled the square. The crisp December air, combined with the warmth of festive lights, made the experience magical.
Of course, no visit to Spain is complete without indulging in its cuisine. We found a cozy spot to enjoy paella and drinks—a moment to relax and chat before diving back into the city.
Exhaustion and Memories
By the time evening rolled around, we were utterly exhausted but still buzzing with excitement. After soaking in a few more sights and strolling along Madrid’s lively streets, it was time to head back to the airport. We boarded our late-night flight to Luton, completely drained but satisfied.
Looking back, the trip was as crazy as it sounds—a single day to fly to another country, explore a capital city, and fly back. But it was also an adventure none of us will forget. It was a bittersweet goodbye for some of my colleagues, a unique way to close a chapter, and a reminder that sometimes, the most impulsive ideas lead to the best stories.
Reflections
Though I enjoy Madrid, I’ll admit that I prefer Barcelona for its charm, beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. But this trip wasn’t about comparing cities or even ticking off attractions. It was about camaraderie, making memories, and embracing the unexpected.
Would I do it again? Probably not. But am I glad we did it? Absolutely. Madrid gave us a story to tell—a tale of madness, adventure, and the joy of seizing the moment. And for that, I’ll always remember it fondly.
