Latest Blog Entry: "Only American in my Madrid Neighborhood-Until Now"

Seven years I've been living in the same working-class neighborhood in Madrid, Spain. For the first six years I have somewhat proudly proclaimed myself as "The American of the Neighborhood", never finding evidence to refute this. Times change.

No, I don't hang the American flag from my balcony nor do I play American music so loud so the entire neighborhood can hear it. Nor do I ask merchants, 'Excuse me, do you speak English?'. That's just silly. In fact, I don't want ANYONE to know I'm American. They can already figure out I'm not Spanish by my 'look' and accent/vocabulary so if they're curious enough, they can ask and I'll tell them. A few have asked, too, and don't treat me differently upon hearing the answer. (Read on, McDuff...)

I would think so, no need to splash it out, they will know, the accent will tell anywhere...more than the look ::)

I imagine I'll run into the guy someday, either waiting at the same bus stop or at the neighborhood bar and that door will be pried open.

Saludos, MadridMan

Loved the blog MM.

My uncle has lived in Spain for over 30 years and he is still referred to as El Americano. Funny thing is that when his friends and family back in the states ask him when he is coming home, his response is "I am home."

yes it does gives you an eerie feeling after so many years out, and then come back "home"; when I go back to Madrid I need like a day to adjust myself to the surroundings again,and then it catches up with you, smile you are back to where it all started as far as seen the world for me.


My old home is a pilgrimage every time in Spain, need to stop by it at least for a few minutes.