ICADE

Obviously, the size of Madrid makes it a place where you can do anything. On the cultural side - don´t miss the art museums and the opera. On the "fun" side - in the beginning it is advisable to head to Palacio de Gaviria on Thursdays (c/ Arenal) where international student parties are held but beware of the long queue to get in. For excellent sangría head to España Cañí just off Plaza Santa Ana. A few of my favorite cafés: Español on Plaza Santa Ana and Ruiz on calle de Ruiz, both with nice atmosphere and candle lights. Best restaurants in town (on a student budget, that is) are Finca de Susana and Gloria de Montera.

the best bar in madrid is certainly the Honky-Tonk bar, with concerts everyday and rock music for everybody. you have also to visit the museums (Prado and thyssen)where the most famous pinter are exposed. during the week-end you have to do the retiro market, a famous tipical spanish market and finish your day in the Rastro park, where you can take the sun listening Djumbe music and meeting people.

night spots: Cool, Fun, Nuit, Elite, areas: Alonso Martinez, Orense events: military parade on Castellana on october 12th, vuelta de España (cycling), football game of Real Madrid, Cuartel Conde Duque, El Prado, Reina Sofía,Plaza españa

- el barrio Malasania for "alternative" people who like atmosphere of night cafes and bars (typical "espanisch") - palacio de gaviria for those who want to get to know ather foreign students - plaza santa ana (dominated by foreigners)

Since Madrid is a very big city with lots of bars with different styles of music etc. it is possible to 'test' every day/night a different bar. - Madrid is told to be europe's capital with the best facilities to go out.

Spanish people are very open-minded and kind. The best way to integrate the city is to go out with a little group of friends and don't be afraid to talk to people sat next to you wherever the place you are.