August 7 - Madrid or bust [Archive] - Notes from Spain and Spanish Forum

Realaficionada21

11th July 2007, 07:07 AM

Jules

11th July 2007, 08:39 AM

I just discovered NotesFromMadrid and can't wait to start delving into that website.

During and before the GME we tried out many of the bars/restaurants featured and they have all been good (& generally better than described).

Soon I will be a lonely jobless foreigner talking to myself to keep me company

If you speak as well as you do on your blogs, I don't think this will be a long-term problem :) :)

Ben

11th July 2007, 09:39 AM

I will be moving to Madrid in August. I arrive on the 7th and now is the time that I am going to start getting anxious. (Actually, anxious, nervous, scared, excited, "I'm completely crazy what is wrong with me", and hopeful.)Great news! Well done, and don't worry, fear and self-doubt are totally normal reactions to a massive life step, but you should really be congratulating yourself - you are one of the brave people who has had the guts to make a leap or faith into a new, exciting reality, to pursue a dream! You will have the time of your life!
Soon I will be a lonely jobless foreigner talking to myself to keep me company. Any kind thoughts and prayers sent my direction would be greatly appreciated; I'm going to need them!You won't be talking to yourself, don't worry, you can come and talk to me and Marina for a start! I see an excellent joint video-blog opportunity on the horizon :) Let us know when you get into town and if you need any more help or advice!

Realaficionada21

11th July 2007, 04:14 PM

If you speak as well as you do on your blogs, I don't think this will be a long-term problem :) :)

You won't be talking to yourself, don't worry, you can come and talk to me and Marina for a start! I see an excellent joint video-blog opportunity on the horizon :) Let us know when you get into town and if you need any more help or advice!

Muchas gracias! Como dije, los foreros son muy muy muy agradables!!!

Me encantaría hacer un vlog con ustedes!!!!!! Planeo hacer otro vlog de mi viaje a Virginia del Oeste pero espero fotos de mi tío primero.

Palmerito

11th July 2007, 04:54 PM

Congratulations! Having followed your posts for a while now, I feel you are the type of person who has the attitude and inner fortitude to make this move a success. I am very happy for you. I'm a bit jealous, actually.

I am about to purchase my plane ticket for my Madrid vacation October 9th to 18th. Found a great fare and will now begin to plan my itinerary. Beginning to worry a bit about my passport, however. It has been 10 weeks as of today. I was told between 10 and 12 weeks for it to arrive. But lately the passport offices have been way overloaded with summer travelers' applications. Also the laws regarding travel to Canada and Mexico now require passports for everyone. Surely it will arrive before October?

Hope you will post here about your arrival and experiences (and videos, too).

gianluca7883

11th July 2007, 05:37 PM

It's fantastic Real! Your dream comes true, so, don't be afraid, I think it'll be the best experience in your life, you speak Spanish very well.

I moved to France (just for 3 months) two years ago: when I left home I was absolutely scared but, after three months, when I had to leave France I CRIED AS I WANTED TO LIVE THERE!

Moreover, don't forget that el Estadio Bernabéu with your favourite football players will be just a few underground stations far from your new flat :)

On August 7th I'll think about you: I won't forget it as it's my birthday :) If one day I go to Madrid, I'll let you know and we could drink un tinto de verano juntos :):thumbs-up::thumbs-up::thumbs-up::thumbs-up::thumbs-up:

MUCHISIMA SUERTE!!!

GitanaBea

11th July 2007, 08:32 PM

Congrats Real!! I will be making the same move in a couple of weeks from Canada to Madrid. My arrival date is August 2. I'm game to do a collarborative Video blog with Marina & Ben too. Good luck y nos vemos aya! :cool:

Realaficionada21

11th July 2007, 10:43 PM

Thank you so much for all of your support!!! Google maps has this new feature, called My Maps. You can now save maps with different points of interest. My first map is "My Life in Madrid". I have found and saved the train stations, Santiago Bernabeu :D, a movie theater, an electronics store (so that I can buy Spanish plugs), the airport, and a cell phone store!! I feel more prepared everyday.

My arrival date is August 2. Oh that's fantastic!!! SUERTE GitanaBea!

Having followed your posts for a while now, I feel you are the type of person who has the attitude and inner fortitude to make this move a success. I really hope you are correct. Thank you Palmerito. :blush:

ValenciaSon

11th July 2007, 11:40 PM

I don't think it's a question of whether Real is ready for Madrid. I think it's a question of "Is Madrid ready for Real".:rolleyes:

Realaficionada21

12th July 2007, 08:08 AM

I don't think it's a question of whether Real is ready for Madrid. I think it's a question of "Is Madrid ready for Real".:rolleyes:

Lol! Yes, maybe I should warn the citizens and tell the mayor. On second thought, if I do that they might not let me in. :smug:

Ozgur

12th July 2007, 08:26 AM

Lol! Yes, maybe I should warn the citizens and tell the mayor. On second thought, if I do that they might not let me in. :smug:

Well, let us know in Catalunya when you will visit then... We may have to take some precautions as well :)

Jules

12th July 2007, 10:37 AM

I don't think it's a question of whether Real is ready for Madrid. I think it's a question of "Is Madrid ready for Real".:rolleyes:

.... or should that read 'Is Real Madrid ready for Real?' :smug: ...

Acosta

12th July 2007, 09:26 PM

So I wanted to start a thread about myself. How very selfish, I know!

I will be moving to Madrid in August. I arrive on the 7th and now is the time that I am going to start getting anxious. (Actually, anxious, nervous, scared, excited, "I'm completely crazy what is wrong with me", and hopeful.)

I just discovered NotesFromMadrid and can't wait to start delving into that website. Ben, Marina and the whole forum gang have been great. This has been the perfect way to prepare myself. Big thanks to everyone!! (Not so selfish anymore, huh?!?)

Soon I will be a lonely jobless foreigner talking to myself to keep me company. Any kind thoughts and prayers sent my direction would be greatly appreciated; I'm going to need them!

Congrats, BRING YOU VIDEO CAM, we must have your video blogs.

Congrat and I think you will do well. Plus you have support of many ex-pats both here and there.

karena

13th July 2007, 01:54 PM

So I wanted to start a thread about myself. How very selfish, I know!

I will be moving to Madrid in August. I arrive on the 7th and now is the time that I am going to start getting anxious. (Actually, anxious, nervous, scared, excited, "I'm completely crazy what is wrong with me", and hopeful.)

I just discovered NotesFromMadrid and can't wait to start delving into that website. Ben, Marina and the whole forum gang have been great. This has been the perfect way to prepare myself. Big thanks to everyone!! (Not so selfish anymore, huh?!?)

Soon I will be a lonely jobless foreigner talking to myself to keep me company. Any kind thoughts and prayers sent my direction would be greatly appreciated; I'm going to need them!

What I can´t get over is how lucky you are to have the resources that you do - Notes in Spanish site, google, skype, etc. When I went back in 1988, I didn´t even have access to email!

You'll be fine. It made me smile to see Ben's note to you. You already know people who live there. That has to be somewhat comforting. Good luck and I hope you'll keep in touch once you move there.

Karen

PS - By the way, what sort of work are you looking for?

Realaficionada21

13th July 2007, 07:25 PM

I will be trying to find a job teaching English. I already possess a TEFL certificate and a Young Learners certificate as well as 2 1-2 years teaching experience. (Although I taught Spanish 101 and not English.) Combine those experiences with the fact that I am a native English speaker and I hope that equals job opportunities. :confused:

I am very lucky that we have all this great technology now. I will be bringing my laptop, becuase I would never be able to plan my lessons without one. I will keep in touch with my family via Skype and videos on YouTube. It should be quite the fantastic adventure! I am even more happy that I discovered this forum when I did. Ben and Marina are amazing and the foreros are always tremendous as well!

acmench

16th July 2007, 01:01 PM

I don't think you'll have any problem finding an English teaching job. Experience (even in teaching something else) and the TEFL certificate are the keys, I think. And there are a ton of jobs. Plus you're arriving at a pretty good time - a lot of academies are hiring for the next school year which starts in September. I'd recommend you check out In-Madrid (one of the English language newspapers) for job listings. You can see it online too and they post classifieds the 1st of the month.

And Skype is one of the greatest things ever - it makes taking to friends and family from home so easy and FREE! I use it almost daily!

And I think we should try and arrange a mini Madrid meet-up for all of the NFS members living here. I'd love to meet some people!

kinkycurls05

19th July 2007, 03:44 AM

:cheers: hey congrats to making the big move! I'm new to this site, but I'm so excited to find a forum like this! i'll be moving to madrid in august, also, from nyc. i'm more excited but also so nervous! i'm getting my tefl with Canterbury...i've been teaching bilingual for 2 years in nyc so my Spanish is pretty strong. not too worried, but i still think i may go into shock!! lol. make sure to post about the first few weeks, and give some pointers. i'll be looking to hear it, as i don't leave until mid-august!!

Lyndsey

p.s. sorry, i know this is a post about you, and all i wrote about is me!! just happy to meet another person taking an adventure : )

Ashley

19th July 2007, 03:50 AM

make sure to post about the first few weeks, and give some pointers. i'll be looking to hear it, as i don't leave until mid-august!!

I'm making the move end of September/early October, so I'll be looking forward to hearing about how the first few months are. It's all very exciting!

Eriol

19th July 2007, 04:57 AM

Man....also this talk of moving makes me want to move....But I need to at least finish this dumb 2 year Associates degree first. well im going to argentina for 2 months that should tie me over for the meantime, but really, Real, thats amazing...I think you will have an amazing time, and will be doing stuff that many people only dream about...Your making your own unique history, outside of the mundainess that many people stay confined in all their life. Buena suerte!

Realaficionada21

19th July 2007, 06:38 PM

Thanks Eriol and I am sure that Argentina will be a blast as well! I hope school works out for you! (2 years is nothing; it will be over and done with in a flash!)

Jules

2nd August 2007, 08:28 PM

Realaficionada21

3rd August 2007, 05:58 AM

Mostly I am just worried that I will forget something!!

greytop

3rd August 2007, 08:05 AM

Mostly I am just worried that I will forget something!!
RELAX!! News flash - there is a fairly good postal service US to Spain and we have lots of shops here ;D;D;D Just get your documents in a pile ready as they are the hardest thing to replace.

Realaficionada21

3rd August 2007, 05:16 PM

Yes, I have all my documents, I think. ;D We even have a picture printer so I made some passport sized photos to put with resumes and the like.

My last day at my old job I met some people who are from Germany. They gave me their email address and phone number and said that if I ever get in trouble in Spain they will send someone to get me out! LOL

I told them that I don't plan on getting in trouble with the law, but I am glad that I have a contingency plan!

Eriol

6th August 2007, 03:54 AM

Are you falling over with anxiety yet?

Diana

6th August 2007, 10:15 AM

íBuen viaje!

Realaficionada21

9th August 2007, 04:58 PM

I had a very very horrible day my first in Spain. The flights were okay since I got bumped from my first seat to sit in the emergency exit row. it was very spacious. Then on the next flight I had two seats to myself. Actually three but someone moved into the aisle. Then I got to the airport and put my bags in the lockers. Holy moly was it hot and they were very heavy. From there I tried to go to the Embassy, which was closed by the time I got there. So I just used up a lot of energy for nothing. And since I hadn´t really slept at all during the flights I didn´t have a lot to expend. Then I made my way over to sign the papers for the apartment, after a small lunch. On the way I tried to get money out of the ATM. Nope, my bank blocked my account. Apparently I neglected to tell them that I was leaving the country. So I had to write a check for rent and I am not sure that it will work. The landlord is out of town so he will get back to me later. That was about 4:30. I couldnt get the keys to the apartment until 7:30. I thought I knew where it was, but it turned out I didn´t. I really had to pee and I wanted to sit down but I was waiting outside the wrong apartment for an hour. After I got that problem fixed the landlord sent the guy to meet me with the keys to my location and walk me to where I needed to be. (Which was not far.) I did have a complete breakdown though and couldn´t stop crying for about 30min.

Don´t worry. I am totally ok. But when you have to pee, there are no public restrooms and, you have been awake way over 24 hours things can easily irritate you. When I got to the apartment there were no towels or sheets. I did buy toilet paper and hand soap while I was waiting. So I had to go get my bags though because I was afraid the lockers might be closed. By the time I got back to the airport by metro (which is fairly easy to navigate), retreived my luggage and took a cab home it was almost 10pm and all the shops were closed by then. So I put grandma´s quilt on the bed and used my robe for a pillow. So thanks grandma for saving the day!

Everything is fine now. I have groceries in the fridge. I can´t seem to find where I can buy a rolling cart. I stopped by the embassy and they told me to register on line! Ha...another wasted trip!!

Phew, that was tiring to relive.

Eriol

9th August 2007, 05:37 PM

Wow, haha that sucks. At least you haven't been bored! Well its good that you made it in finally, I'm sure later on you'll look back on that day in better humor. Anyways, congrats on finally making the move, and keep us updated on what happens.

Ashley

9th August 2007, 06:03 PM

Congrats on making it in one piece! It sounds like things are going better now that there is some food in the fridge :) Good luck with the job search now.

gianluca7883

9th August 2007, 06:46 PM

Espero la publicacion del libro sobre tu viaje "Errant in Iberia 2" jajaja... no te procupes porque ESTAS VIVIENDO LA EXPERIENCIA MAS BELLA DE TU VIDA :thumbs-up:

Brian

9th August 2007, 07:30 PM

Glad you made it! I can't imagine just immigrating by myself. Having family here makes a huge difference.

Edith

9th August 2007, 09:02 PM

Phew, that was tiring to relive.

I totally sympathize with you! Boy, that must have been a crappy day. But it's behind you now, and I hope you will settle in real soon. Spain is waiting for you, and I don't think you will end up in the local calabozo. ¡Ánimo, y adelante! :thumbs-up:

eldeano

9th August 2007, 09:37 PM

I really had to pee and I wanted to sit down

Lucky you weren't sitting by a fountain. :eek:

Glad to hear you made it in one piece. :thumbs-up:

ValenciaSon

10th August 2007, 12:33 AM

My money is on Real. That was just round one. I'm sure she'll come into round 2 swinging so hard, Madrid won't know what hit it.:thumbs-up:

Palmerito

10th August 2007, 01:38 AM

Kjersti,

I am sorry it was such a long, tiring, crappy day. It's GOT to be better from now on. I'm just so excited that you are embarking on this new part of your life. And, by the way, thanks for the tip about notifying the bank before traveling. That is something I have now put on my prep list for my trip in October to Madrid. Care for a cup of coffee when I get to Spain? (Oct. 10 - 17).
:wave:

Acosta

10th August 2007, 02:47 AM

Well glad you made it through.

Now start video blogging :)

Congrats you made.

ValenciaSon

10th August 2007, 02:54 AM

Well glad you made it through.

Now start video blogging :)Congrats you made. Let her rest first! Catch up on your sleep and when you wake up, have a cafe con leche and maybe an ensaimada and proceed to shoot your eagerly awaited, world-class footage!:thumbs-up:

Acosta

10th August 2007, 03:02 AM

Let her rest first! Catch up on your sleep and when you wake up, have a cafe con leche and maybe an ensaimada and proceed to shoot your eagerly awaited, world-class footage!:thumbs-up:

I wasn't serious at all. But sorry if it came across that way.

Guess I have to burn my Barça jersey ......

Cheers

eldeano

10th August 2007, 03:12 AM

Guess I have to burn my Barça jersey ......

Always a good idea. :)

greytop

10th August 2007, 08:01 AM

Welcome and I'm glad it all came out right in the end. The lack of public loos is normal for Spain and it is perfectly acceptable to go into any bar and use theirs. Sometimes they lock them but just ask at the bar for "las llaves".
Have fun finding your way round and don't expect everything to work the way it did back home ;D

Realaficionada21

10th August 2007, 03:39 PM

Edith

10th August 2007, 06:05 PM

I forgot to mention that I went into one bar/café to have a bite to eat and pee of course and the light was broken. So I had to manage to find the toilet with toilet paper holder was smashed against my face and the sink with absolutely no light. That was also loads of fun!!!

Do you know the Spanish proverb, no hay mal que por bien no venga? On days like this, the opposite seems to be true! But I have to admit it is hilarilously funny to read about. ;D Great material for a blog or a travelogue... ;)

Good luck with your job search! :thumbs-up:

Diana

10th August 2007, 06:23 PM

This sounds so much like my first day in Germany - ahhh - 42 years ago!!!! Believe me, it can only get better - and I am sure it will. (At least I didn't have any grief with my computer!);D

kate.e

10th August 2007, 06:49 PM

For free internet, try Faborit-- there's one on Calle Alcalá and another on Paseo del Prado. I think the wifi schedule might be kind of weird-- only after 4pm on weekdays, and only before 4pm on weekends, or something to that effect-- but it's free. They give you the password when you buy a drink.

Dave_K

10th August 2007, 07:12 PM

THANKS EVERYONE!! I forgot to mention that I went into one bar/café to have a bite to eat and pee of course and the light was broken. So I had to manage to find the toilet with toilet paper holder was smashed against my face and the sink with absolutely no light. That was also loads of fun!

Does anyone know of an internet cafe in Madrid where I can bring my own laptop. I can´t videoblog with my little jumpdrive, I dont think it will hold the files. I can try though! I also want to skype. Hmm....

I am starting the job search now! Paginasamarillas.es!!!

Lol, I tell my wife that all I ask for in Madrid is a toilet with 1) toilet paper, 2) a lock on the stall door, and 3) a toilet seat on the toilet. Over the years, I've come to realize that, like the song says, two out of three ain't bad! (some advice: always know where the nearest VIPS is for when nature suddenly calls!)

Beckett

10th August 2007, 09:53 PM

My experience with Faborit is that their internet connection is notoriously slow. It's fine to check email, I guess, but wouldn't do if you wanted to download audio or video. Also, the hours that they allow you to use it are wacky. Only after 4 p.m. on weekdays and I forget what the schedule is on wknds. I only went there twice during the week and had to flee for a high speed connection. Too many people trying to use their bandwidth at the same time for it to be worth my while.

If you're willing to pay for Internet and need a high-speed connection, go to Gran Via and look for a place called Cafe Express or Internet Express. I can't remember the exact name right now. Anyway, it's located above a money cambio place on Gran Via, right in front of the entrance to the CALLAO metro stop, across the street from the Bennetton store. If those directions aren't specific enough, look for the xxx-rated shop on Gran Via. The internet cafe is right next door.

Good luck!

ValenciaSon

11th August 2007, 02:49 AM

THANKS EVERYONE!! I forgot to mention that I went into one bar/café to have a bite to eat and pee of course and the light was broken. So I had to manage to find the toilet with toilet paper holder was smashed against my face and the sink with absolutely no light. That was also loads of fun!

Does anyone know of an internet cafe in Madrid where I can bring my own laptop. I can´t videoblog with my little jumpdrive, I dont think it will hold the files. I can try though! I also want to skype. Hmm....

I am starting the job search now! Paginasamarillas.es!!! What a relief!! I guess your next adventure or soon anyway is with the famous Telefonica. You'll be situated soon, though, I've no doubt.

Brian

11th August 2007, 07:56 AM

If you want internet in your piso, Telefonica is offering free installation and signup in August for fixed line and ADSL. Otherwise, there will be charges in September.

GitanaBea

11th August 2007, 11:56 AM

I am actually in a very nice Internet cafe where you can hook up your laptop. It´s called Vitamina and it´s off of Gran Via close to the Plaza de España metro. Also you can go to the Plaza de Santo Domingo also in this area and the ayuntamiento has set up Wifi in the plaza for anyone. I went there the other day to update my blog and it was fine. I think they only give you about an hour or so cause then I was kicked off. But hey it´s free.

Thanks for the tip about free internet connection in August, I will definitely look into it. It´s a pain sometimes to find an internet cafe, and my friends in Canada are usually not online at the same time cause of the time difference.

Realaficionada....we should get together for drinks sometime. Send me a private message.

Ben

11th August 2007, 12:07 PM

Here is some info a friend sent me on free wifi in Madrid:

Faborit (at the Sevilla metro stop) has free wifi from about 4 pm on
Cafe Panini at Campomanes 11 has free wifi, last I checked.
The Espresso Republic cafe chain offers free wifi. There is one on Miguel Angel, just around the corner from General Martinez Campos, and one on the Paseo more or less across from the Prado
&J's Books and Coffee on Calle Espiritu Santo, 47 supposedly has wifi

Hope that helps!

karena

11th August 2007, 01:39 PM

You're in Spain! LOL! I logged on because I was thinking Kjersti is probably in Madrid by now. Sorry your first day was crappy, but as the others have said, things can only get better. Looking forward to hearing more from you once you're settled in.

Karen

Realaficionada21

13th August 2007, 02:36 PM

Edith

13th August 2007, 03:12 PM

Thanks for the wifi help! I am very close to the Books and Coffe store. I will have to try it out! Plus I am out of books to read!!!

So here is my new vlog. It is a short one of my apartment! I made it at like 2:00 in the morning so it isn't anything special!

cUlkNjLHitY

Thanks for tuning in and thinking of me! I think you will have to raise the volume quite a bit to hear anything!

(When I said puño - I really meant manilla.)

Seems like you're all set! :thumbs-up: Is this a student apartment, or do you have a landlord? It looks really clean and spacious. Are you allowed to spruce it up a little by putting things on the wall, adding some plants, etc.?

One thing I really had to get used to in Spain were the persianas. Many houses in Germany have got them too but I have never seen them in Holland. When you close them at night it gets absolutely pitch-dark, something which I don't really like. On the other hand, you really need persianas in Spain to keep out the heat.

Margot

14th August 2007, 03:39 PM

Hola Kjersti....Acabo de leer los mensajes anteriores sobre tu llegada en Madrid. Espero que ya tengas las sabanas y las fundas. Qué desafío enorme te enfrentó al llegar.
Te admiro muchísima. Además es claro que en el foro hay un montón de aficionados para Realaficionada. No estás sola. Sabemos todos que ¡prevalecerás! Adelanta......

gianluca7883

14th August 2007, 05:37 PM

YEAHHHHHHH Real, creo que todo el foro està contigo :))))))) Eres nuestra mascota :)))

ValenciaSon

14th August 2007, 05:43 PM

Go Kjersti go! I hope this isn't turning into the Truman Show for you. " Tune in next time and find out if Kjersti buys the sheets or the shoes"

Margot

14th August 2007, 05:54 PM

Go Kjersti go! I hope this isn't turning into the Truman Show for you. " Tune in next time and find out if Kjersti buys the sheets or the shoes"

...o tal vez encuentres tu primer puesto enseñando inglés al proprietarios de la tienda donde has comprado las sabanas. :D

Realaficionada21

16th August 2007, 10:02 AM

:blush:Bueno, muchas gracias por todo el apoyo!!!

Tengo un casero entonces no es un apartmento de estudiantes. Pero al casero no le gusta ayudarme mucho pero quizás es porque es agosto! El ciclo de la centrifugador no funciona entonces tuvo que comprar un cubo para echar toda el agua y la ropa. Afortunadamente una vecina me dejó usar la suya para secar un poco la ropa! Y también no sirve la llave que tengo entonces entro en el estudio saltando por la ventana. Llamé al casero esta mañana y no contestó. Quizás debo llamarla cada hora ;D.

No tengo persianas en el estudio pero a mí me gusta mucho dormir en oscuridad total. El único problema es que no reconozco cuando es de día porque entra tan poca luz!!

Intento poner otro video. Lo estoy haciendo ahora pero no está lista. Lo pondré pronto entonces.

Fui a una fiesta de cumpleaños de una chica que vive en el mismo edificio. Allí había mucha gente de la República Dominicana y me enseñaban a bailar el merengue! También conocí a un chico que tiene un curso en la uni con una persona de Pennsylvania. Él es dueño de una academia de inglés. Pues el español me dijo que iba a preguntarle al estadounidense acerca de un puesto. Pero ya veremos si lo hace o no!

Hasta pronto y por favor sintonizen en la próxima instalación de mi telenovela!

Ben

16th August 2007, 10:50 AM

Hola Kjersti,

me ha encantado esta ultima entrega de tu telenovela - espero que Marina y yo podamos hacer un papel 'cameo' pronto :)

Davehodgo

16th August 2007, 11:01 AM

ValenciaSon

16th August 2007, 01:03 PM

Wow, you keep us posted on the party and such. Cameo appearances by B&M should be fun! I might have to Tivo this:rolleyes:. Good luck in it all Kjersti.

Realaficionada21

17th August 2007, 02:08 PM

just read your blog and i hope you are settling in ok. i am very envious because you are doing the very thing i am planning for. i'm going to do a tesol course in the Uk and then i'm on my way.

God Bless

I wish you all the best! I think if you want some practice enroll in a TEFL class that includes a few hours of actual teaching. You will have an easier time than me since you have valid papers. I will keep looking, but I may have to return home with lots of happy memories and lighter pockets!!

Ben and Marina cameo: This is actually number one on my Things to Do Before I Die list!! Haha...can´t wait!

I still have a videoblog that I need to post but I didn´t bring it with me today.

I am going to the Botanical Gardens. I have just eaten at Vitamina (which was Natura five years ago). Yesterday I walked all over Gran Vía and Paseo del Prado. I took lots of pictures. I wish there weren´t so many cars at la Plaza de la Cibeles so that I could get in the fountain and pretend to celebrate Real Madrid winning the league!!!!!!

Hasta pronto!

Viajero26

17th August 2007, 06:22 PM

Good luck finding that job, Real- remember, you're my test run for when I go out there in Sept!!! :D Of course, spending a few exciting weeks in Spain is an adventure in itself!

ValenciaSon

17th August 2007, 06:32 PM

Carpe Diem K! I know you will land a great job!

Margot

17th August 2007, 09:20 PM

Hi again Kjirsti

Re: Landing that 1st job - I just had a thought: Why not make a video (as a kind of audition piece) which would demonstrate your:

1. resourcefulness and originality
2.. specific teaching skills (if for instance you're aiming for a job teaching children - the video should be like a sample lesson with that in mind.....
3. language abilities (i.e. - that you can also communicate well in Spanish, if needed, when teaching English )
4.. great personality ie - sense of humour, tremendous enthusiasm (also - being attractive is a definite bonus ;) I don't believe it's sexist to use it to your advantage)

These are all things that can't be reflected adequately, if at all, in a resume or cv - but you could put a web link into your resume - right at the top so it can't be missed -and I'll bet you get some "clickers" and then some job interview appointments!

Just to wrap up....your 1st 2 forum videos are what keep running thru my mind...and perhaps could be a sort of template for what I'm suggesting.

WE all want you to succeed:)....and you will:thumbs-up:

Realaficionada21

19th August 2007, 04:44 PM

Margot,
That is a very interesting concept. It is like giving the company a preview to an interview. I will definitely think about it.

To be honest making videoblogs makes me very nervous, pretending to teach also makes me very nervous!! But some things are more important than being a little scared! (As it says in my signature so I can keep reminding myself that you only live once!)

Viajero - Are you trying to make me more nervous? I don´t need that kind of pressure!;D I hope it works out for us both!

Telenovela - Parte 2
Fui de marcha anoche con una chica inglesa que vive en mi edifico, su amigo y el hermano y la novia del hermano del amigo de mi amiga.:D Salimos a las 5 de la tarde para esperar la llegada del hermano y la novia. No regresamos a casa hasta después de laas 2. Lo pasamos muy bien comiendo tapas. Aprendí que me gusta bastante el vino tinto con limón.

La lavadora que tengo ahora funciona mejor pero todavía no hace lo que debe hacer. Tengo que ayudarla un poco para que todo se echa todo el jabón y luego y agua.

Mañana tengo que ir a una Ferrería (creo) para hablar de la cerradura de mi puerta. Un hombre vino a darme una copia extra pero parece que los útilmos inquilinos han cambiado la cerradura y la llave que él tiene no sirve tampoco, ni se introduce en la cerradura.

Bueno chicos, os dejo por ahora!! Pueden ver el neuvo vlog en la sección de vlogs del foro!

Chao

Viajero26

19th August 2007, 05:19 PM

Viajero - Are you trying to make me more nervous? I don´t need that kind of pressure!;D I hope it works out for us both!

lol Okay, maybe I'm projecting my own nervousness a little! :blush: Besides, it sounds like you're doing great- hitting the town and everything! You've even got Spanish domestic problems (la lavadora)! haha We'll have to get some tapas when I get there and talk about how nervous/excited we are.:)

DocMolly

19th August 2007, 05:53 PM

Kjirsti,
I just found your blog! Que fantástico! Me encanta seguir tu experiencia en Madrid. Y gracias por hacer video blogs! Me fascinan! Sobretodo me gusta el final de tu último video...muy emocionante.

Margot

19th August 2007, 07:22 PM

Margot,
That is a very interesting concept. It is like giving the company a preview to an interview. I will definitely think about it. 1*
To be honest making videoblogs makes me very nervous, pretending to teach also makes me very nervous!! 2* But some things are more important than being a little scared!

1*- It's MORE (and better) than that - its like giving the company an opportunity to actually be in your classroom AFTER they've hired you!...doing your thing...
2*- Fortunately - in your case - that nervousness manifests itself (in your videos) as infectious enthusiasm and wonderful energy - qualities I've always valued in a teacher and qualities any prospective employer would value as well.

Go for it!!!!!!! You could always test it out on us 1st - if you still have doubts after you make it - and then use the feedback to help you perfect it (tho I think too many cooks can spoil the pie and frankly I trust YOUR instincts)

Edith

19th August 2007, 09:11 PM

I might have to Tivo this:rolleyes:.

You lost me there - what does 'tivo' mean? :)

Edith

19th August 2007, 09:23 PM

pretending to teach also makes me very nervous!!

I'm sure you can do it. You have a huge advantage because you are already quite fluent in Spanish, so you don't have to start from scratch. Ben didn't speak any Spanish when he came to Madrid yet he also spent some time working as an English teacher. Have you read his book 'Errant in Spain'?

So, ¡Ánimo! :)

ValenciaSon

19th August 2007, 11:19 PM

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/db/TivoLogo.png
Tivo is (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TiVo)

You lost me there - what does 'tivo' mean? :)

Edith

20th August 2007, 09:03 AM

Ah, I see! I didn't have a clue... :D

Realaficionada21

22nd August 2007, 05:09 PM

I have not read Errant in Iberia. Where can I pick it up?

Fortunately - in your case - that nervousness manifests itself (in your videos) as infectious enthusiasm and wonderful energy

That cracks me up! It is very good to know though!! So when I am nervous I am apparently more fun!

Margot

22nd August 2007, 05:40 PM

I have not read Errant in Iberia. Where can I pick it up?

Right here (unfortunately there's no Spanish translation...yet....)

http://www.notesfromspain.com/errant-in-iberia/http://www.notesfromspain.com/errant-in-iberia/ (http://www.notesfromspain.com/errant-in-iberia/http://www.notesfromspain.com/errant-in-iberia/)
note to Ben...do I get a commission?:D
*******

That cracks me up! It is very good to know though!! So when I am nervous I am apparently more fun!

:D:D:D

ValenciaSon

22nd August 2007, 05:48 PM

Case in point;D

Realaficionada21

23rd August 2007, 03:11 PM

The link was no good. :(

So Richard, Bea, Marina, Ben and I went out on the town on Tuesday. It was good fun, good company, and good food!!

I am going to be going on a Vaughan Town trip starting on Sunday so I might have lots more fun things to say.

As for right now I am in the Plaza de Santo Domingo where there is free internet access. I learned about this through Bea. It's awesome! I love free things but I do have one complaint: none of the benches have backs on them so I grabbed a newspaper put it on the ground and sat with my back to a bench for a while. Other than that it's still great since it is nice outside and it is free.

We also found a place (the Internet Point or something like that) that is two streets to the left of the Correo building in Puerta de Sol that has a wireless internet pass - 24 hours for 6 euros and there are tables where you can plug your latptop in. That's where I will be heading if it is a cold or rainy day.

Ok well nothing more to talk about really. Bea also told me about infojobs.net. I am filling that out I just need to take a picture of myself in front of a wall so that I can add it to my cv. I did this once already but I left the picture on my computer at home.

Laters

Margot

23rd August 2007, 03:31 PM

The link was no good. :(So Richard, Bea, Marina, Ben and I went out on the town on Tuesday.

I'm sure you've sorted this out by now - but if not, try again:
http://www.notesfromspain.com/errant-in-iberia/

Davehodgo

23rd August 2007, 09:41 PM

errant in iberia is a class book. although i ordered it off the internet and for some reason i couldn't click on the order tab on the screen, so i got mad and clicked it five times lol.

and yes you guess it five copies turned up a week later and a heavy invoice.

thanks to me its now a bestseller lol.

Realaficionada21

9th September 2007, 04:21 PM

Hello everyone! It has been awhile since I have logged on. Not having the internet at home makes it a little difficult to keep in touch.

Beatriz, Richard and I went out las week. We have a lovely time!

Mainly I am writing this post to say that I start teaching on Tuesday! I had one interview and they offered me a job. I am very excited and slightly nervous.

Now I have to look for a new, cheaper apartment. I have some leads already from InMadrid. Lucky for me I am a non-smoking girl, it seems that is what everyone is looking for!!!!

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Kjersti

Viajero26

9th September 2007, 04:27 PM

That's amazing, Kjersti, congrats! I'm taking off for Madrid myself tomorrow; I hope that I can do half as well! :o

ValenciaSon

9th September 2007, 05:19 PM

Carpe Madrid Kjersti!

Jules

9th September 2007, 06:05 PM

Mainly I am writing this post to say that I start teaching on Tuesday!

Within a month of arriving!! Thats great. :thumbs-up:

Ben

9th September 2007, 09:08 PM

Well done Kjersti! Hope we can all meet up some time soon to hear more about it!

richardksa

10th September 2007, 11:08 AM

Excellent news, Kjersti. Where are you teaching? So that´s both you and Beatriz with jobs now. The Notes from Spain gang are taking over!!!

Margot

10th September 2007, 04:34 PM

Mainly I am writing this post to say that I start teaching on Tuesday! I had one interview and they offered me a job. I am very excited and slightly nervous.

That's utterly FANTASTIC.....and must set some kind of record - so quick - it seems it was just yesterday that you were sleepless, sheetless, simply overwhelmed by the utter enormity of what you'd just done.
Do tell us a little about the job ...where? whom are you teaching etc.? and then.......
Take a moment to pat yourself on the back - I hope you've got a big smile on your face and in your heart :D
The adventure unfolds......keep a diary!

Quizás sea una buena idea si un día tú y Brian (él de Kentucky(?), podáis combinar vuestras 2 aventuras diversas - las que describen cuentos ambos completamente diferentes y, a la vez, que comparten elementos parecidos en cuanto a mudaros de los EE.UU a España - dentro de 1 libro que describiría vuestros desafíos y retos - y, éxitos.....
¡Ben podría escribir la intoducción! ;)

Ashley

10th September 2007, 04:38 PM

Congrats! This must be even more exciting that Real Madrid's big win last weekend ;D

Edith

10th September 2007, 08:36 PM

Mainly I am writing this post to say that I start teaching on Tuesday! I had one interview and they offered me a job. I am very excited and slightly nervous.
Kjersti

Wow, that's great! Congratulations!!! :thumbs-up::thumbs-up::thumbs-up:

Realaficionada21

12th September 2007, 06:02 PM

Thanks everyone!!

I am very happy! I started teaching this week and I already know that I am going to learn a lot. I am just teaching 3 classes this week (well two on Tues, two on Thursday, one on Wed and one of Friday - all in the morning). Next week start my afternoon classes as well. I dont know all the details yet. I will be doing a lot of traveling by metro and by bus.

My classes so far are around Banco de España, Sainz de Baranada, and somewhere by bus leaving from Avenida de America.

Sorry I haven´t been on lately. Hopefully soon I will be able to become a more frequent forera again!!

XOXO