Spain was my first international trip!

Madrid was terrific. I have not been to Barcelona, but those who have been to both cities recommend Madrid over Barcelona.

Latenight tapas and sangria (yum!!), cave crawling, the art (did not like the Prado, LOVED LOVED the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia (Dali, Miro, Picasso))

Make sure to see some Flamenco dancing. One of the best known clubs and the one we went to is Cafe de Chinitas, calle Torija 7. You can have a dinner here then see the show or eat elsewhere and then come to view the show. I took some video and it is some of my favorite footage to watch of anywhere we've been.

Strolling through the Retiro Park is wonderful.

Maybe you will be there when the bull fights are in season. I was not.

A side trip to Segovia is neat w/sights like El Alcazar, Roman Aqueduct and various cathedrals. Slightly more than an hours drive from center of Madrid, renting/driving a car was a snap and I don't speak/read Spanish. There are numerous trains daily also, about a 2 hour trip.

Have fun!!!!!!!!