Madrid, take 2

I had a lot of fun walking around the city this morning, getting a feel for the culture of Madrid. I had a couple errands to run and in about 3 of the shops I went into the people told me to be careful not to get pick pocketed. Apparently there is a high theft rate in Madrid because there are so many tourists. This wasn't the most comforting thing to hear as I was planning to spend the morning walking through the city, alone. But I didn't have any issues at all (don't worry dad!). One of the guys that works at the hostel i'm staying at told me that the door guys at the bars let the Romanian gypsies come in and prey on all of the drunk American's who aren't paying close attention to their wallets! It's a sketchy business!
So I learned today that the city is broken up into 2 parts, the 'old city' and the 'new city'. I took a tour of the 'new city'. It was really fun and interesting. Learning the stories behind all of the buildings and sculptures gives them so much more meaning. I really enjoyed it. Spain has so much history!
I also feel lucky that I have 3 really cool roommates! 2 Chinese girls and a German guy. None of them speak Spanish, so I've had to be the translator a time or 2 -- which is good practice because I am heading up to San Sebastian tomorrow and on Monday, I will have an oral examination to place me into the proper Spanish class for my level. :)

besitos y abrazos,
Sierra