Took the Madrid Visions bus tour around Madrid to take in all the sights I was not going to see otherwise. I find it a good way to get the flavor and feel of a place quickly, and then decide what else I want to walk on foot. Got off the bus (the second time around) at the Palacio Real, Madrid’s Royal Palace. Built between 1738 and 1755, it is considered to be the second most incredible palace in Europe, following perhaps Versailles.

Let me tell you: it was cool. Not only huge, you expect that of a palace, but incredibly, magnificently ornate. My favorite was the King’s Dressing Room, stunningly beautiful. Embroidered wallpaper, fabulous fabrics, chandeliers, inlaid flooring, mirrors reflecting in mirrors, and porcelain and plaster applique on the ceiling, including pheasants and eagles.

There were other great rooms as well, notably “the Porcelain Room,” which of course, is ALL porcelain.

My kids were exultant to get out of there, as you can see in this picture.