Yes, this was a real solo trip—on foot, no less! 🙂↕️
Before the Journey: Why Madrid?
So, this was actually a transit stop from my trip to @gamejamplus.id and @gamejamplus in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. On my way back, I had to transit through Madrid, then Doha, then Jakarta. Literally flying around the world with so many layovers that I just thought, “Might as well check my luggage all the way through and travel light!” While other passengers had their suitcases, I only carried a small backpack to make immigration and check-ins easier.
When I found out my layover in Madrid was 10 HOURS, I made a bold decision: apply for a Schengen Visa myself!
With only 14 days before departure, I rushed through the process. My budget was tight, I had to visit multiple banks (A, B, C, D) for verifications and stamps, and any missing documents meant booking another appointment. Not to mention, I needed a fresh visa photo, book an EMT Madrid bus on Omio, purchase travel insurance, and anxiously wait for a call from the embassy.
And then… YAY! My visa got approved in less than a week! I applied for a June 24-24 visa, but they gave me one until July! Gracias ❤️
When I Had NO INTERNET—LOL!
This was hands down the most epic moment of the trip!
- I got lost at the bus terminal but miraculously managed to board my bus on time.
- Bought two different eSIMs from different stores, and guess what? NO INTERNET! In the end, I had to rely on WiFi from the EMT Madrid bus. When I got off? Yep, borrowed WiFi at the bus stop just to check Google Maps. 😭
- Had to rush to the Royal Palace for my 3:15 PM guided tour. With no proper internet, I had to rely on GPS and navigate through small alleyways (thankfully, it was daytime and the streets were lively). But, surprise! I found a hidden gem!
- A 10€ SIM card that actually worked.
- A 1€ fridge magnet souvenir.
- A charming street full of tourist spots, including Plaza Mayor!
See? There’s always a silver lining in every challenge! Now, time to catch my next flight—Doha, here I come! ✈️
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