Most people in Madrid live in apartments, as do we.
Family is very important in Spain, and family values include frequent reunions.
Madrid's bus and metro system is the best way to get around. My host mother does not drive.
People in Madrid dress quite similarly to people in the United States, with pieces varying seasonally. However, unlike in the U.S., most people in Spain do not wear activewear or sweatsuits in public unless they are exercising.
Popular leisurely activities in Madrid include wandering through the many parks, meeting friends for coffee or attending church.
My host mother primarily speaks Castellano Spanish, but is from Granada, where Andalusian dialects are spoken. The most traditional greeting for "Hello" is Hola, frequently followed by a ¿Qué tal?, or "What's up?".
Though she does not have any pets currently, Luz formerly had many dogs. Dogs are popular in Madrid despite apartment life, with common breeds being German Shephards (pastores alemán), and Pomeranians.