Spain: Aidan Riehl (Places: Routine and Favorite)
Program: WIP Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Academic Year
Routine: Madrid Metro
One thing I’ve really come to appreciate in Madrid is the metro system. It’s hard not to notice how clean everything is. The stations are very well-maintained, and even in busy areas it rarely feels dirty or chaotic. Compared to other cities I’ve been to, it feels surprisingly calm.
The system is also incredibly efficient. Trains come frequently, and it’s easy to get almost anywhere in the city without much planning. Even when I have to transfer lines, the signs are clear and the whole process feels smooth. It’s a sharp contrast to the stressful traffic I’m used to in the US.
The metro has become part of my daily routine, but it still stands out as one of the things that makes living in Madrid easier.
Favorite: Plaza del Dos de Mayo
Plaza del Dos de Mayo (pictured left) feels full of energy. Every time I go, there’s a mix of people—families, groups of friends, and kids running around the playground.
The terraces are almost always busy, especially when the weather is nice. People sit outside for hours, talking, drinking, and enjoying the atmosphere. It feels very local, not overly touristy, which makes it more relaxed.
What I like most is how the plaza brings everything together. You have children playing, adults socializing, and people just passing through. It’s lively without feeling overwhelming, and it is a great example of everyday life in Madrid, where socialization is prioritized.
Aidan Riehl
Program Name: WIP Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Major: Spanish
Hometown: St. Paul, Minnesota
I chose my program because I’ve always wanted to live in a super big city, and Madrid is the largest city in Spain. I’m super excited to involve myself in Madrid’s famous gay community!