The idea of staying in a European city in August is reportedly disgusting as residents flee from the smell of urine. Madrid has long been deserted in August as locals fled the heat, meaning peace and quiet and space on the roads. But, of late, the city has remained thriving during the last month of summer, as shops remain open, terraces are packed, and roads are rammed with traffic. This is due to the city’s society and economy adapting to modern circumstances, as Spaniards today usually split their holidays between July and August. Half of Madrid, therefore, is never away at the same time.
In addition, tourists have flocked to Spain’s capital as it has been sold as a summer destination. They have taken the place of residents who still flee for cooler areas, with other locals choosing to stay put, even as the mercury reaches unbearable heights. Ambulances respond to health problems created by the heat, as people make every effort to keep cool.
The Times came across an 84-year-old woman, who was suffering from heatstroke and leaning against a wall until emergency workers arrived.
The newspaper also reported that there is a “pungent” smell of urine, resulting from night-time revellers relieving themselves in the city’s streets, having had a drink, or a few.
Madrid’s heat exacerbates the stink.
“We always leave in August because of the stench,” one resident said.
People with local knowledge have shared insight into how to exist in Madrid during the summer.
One person wrote on Reddit: “I mostly go to comfortable places with air conditioning. I go to a cafeteria, order an iced coffee and stay there for hours.
“I also go to the movies more often. There are malls with lounge areas where you can chill. Even public libraries are a good option.”
As regards outdoors, they recommend going to a pool, or the Retiro or Casa de Campo parks with a book and a blanket.
They added: “Find a shady spot under a tree and get comfortable reading your book.
“If you want to take a walk, you have to do it either very early in the morning or late at night. Try to do it in a park surrounded by trees.
“You’ll feel a temperature drop just for that.”
A day trip to a nearby city like Ávila, Segovia, Toledo, Aranjuez, El Escorial is another option, “but if it is hot there too, then you won’t want to be outdoors either”.
They added: “In any case I suggest you find hobbies to keep you entertained and get used to spending a lot of time indoors. It’s what most locals do.”