Parque del Buen Ratiro, literally “Park of the Pleasant Retreat ,” which I live very close to, is awesome! I need a park like this at home. A couple of friends from the study abroad program and I run on a trail around the perimeter. Once royal property, the park itself displays well-tended gardens, historical buildings, fountains and expansive lawns.

Meet a few of my friends from the program. There are 14 of us total. I look forward to renting a boat and exploring this pond in the next couple weeks.
Buen Ratiro is bustling with activity all day. Whether running, boating, skateboarding, having a picnic or just enjoying the fresh air, everyone loves the park.