Hi All
Not certain if anyone else keeps an eye on any of the other developments boards but (and with thanks to Don & Martha) we paste below an interesting message that recently appeared on the Torre Alcantara Message Board. Balsicas is only just over 3 miles from San Cayetano!
"Trip to Madrid. We're becoming used to the fact that, in Spain, something you would expect to be fairly straight forward like working out the cost of a rail journey is in fact mysteriously complex. The advertised price for the journey to Madrid bore no relation to the final cost to us, which was 65 euros return each - turista classe. As it turns out this was 40 euros one way and 25 on the return leg!?! This gives you a reserved seat, on a reservation only express train. The carriages have television screens and they screen a major new hollywood release film (albeit dubbed in spanish) and a selection of nature programmes. Headphones are provided free. There is a dining car - hot snacks etc - but all have to be paid for. The first class (or preferente) deal with 4 course meal etc was quoted at 180 euros each although advertised at 65 euros. Go figure!
The train was very comfortable though and at 65 euros is worth it. We got a 4* hotel (Husa Paseo del Arte) very close to Atocha station (and therefore the city centre, the Prado, the Thyssen, the Reina Sofia Museos and the Parque del Retiro - so don't get off at Chamartin Station!) for 100 euros, breakfast incluido. The train leaves Balsicas at 5:45 a.m. - gets to Madrid Atocha at 10:10. Leaves Madrid Atocha at 19:10 and gets to Balsicas at about 23:50. Almost two full days."
Regards
Susan & Glyn