Hi!
What do you think about people in Madrid?
Are they kind with tourists?Do they speak other languages (for example English..)?
I've never been there, but my dream is to go there!

We are very kind

In Madrid you may find a good amount of people who can speak english (20-30% or more).

Fernando

Eszter:
I think MUCH has to do from where you're coming. Are you coming from Europe or North America or from Asia? Some 'Americans' tend to see Madrileños/Spaniards as somewhat UNfriendly, rude, and disinterested towards tourists. However, I suspect that Italians and Greeks find them to be fine people.

You see, at least in my opinion, "it's all relative". Seems to me there is a long thread around here about perceived rudeness by waiters and staff in restaurants and hotels.

The Spaniards I've gotten to know relatively well are warm, welcoming, & friendly people. In fact, to me, Spaniards seem more real without much of the false-politeness that many others (including me) carry around with them in order to make those around us happy.

So what's the answer to your question? I guess there isn't any real answer. It all depends on your own background, your "home environment", your perspective.

Enjoy Madrid and Spain! I know you'll love it..... MORE if you have an open mind - NOT being judgemental.

Saludos, MadridMan

Thanks the answers!
I'm from Hungary (Central Europe).

I hope I can go to Madrid soon!
I've only seen pictures about the city, but I LOVE it!

MadridMan,
You've outdone yourself! That was an excellent response. It is true that weather one likes/dislikes something/someone really begins with one's own perceptions/values/beliefs, etc.

To the poster, I have found the people of Madrid to be polite and kind people,in general. They go out of their way to be helpful and love to assist people with information. The only caveat is: if you are in a line to buy something, ask who is the last person and get behind them. Madrileños do not like people who cut in line!

Booklady, thanks, I take your advice!

Yeah people from Madrid are very nice. I'm American and have never experience any biased attitudes or sneering. The only thing that bugs me, but I got used to it is when people call out for you. Here's it YO, which in itself is rude but in Spain they'll make a sort of sst sst sound and snap their fingers. It will appear rude but it's really not. Also insted of no or yes sometimes they'll make a similar sound to sucking the teeth or something. Can appear to be condescending but it's really not.

Ciao

Funny... during the three months I lived in Spain, the only time I heard that was when I was walking up the Calle de la Montera or Gran Via late at night. And I'm pretty sure the women in question weren't just trying to strike up a conversation.

actually it is more of a chu sound. I herad it alot when I lived in sevilla.