November 11: I had an afternoon flight, so the morning was spent at El Rastro, a HUGE Spanish open air market frequented by locals, tourists, and pickpockets. Apparently there’s a common scam where someone will toss a baby in the air and as you reach out to catch what turns out to be a doll, someone is already picking your pockets.
I managed to get away with my wallet intact, until I passed a bakery that sold truffles as well as balls of chocolate mousse rolled in chocolate shavings.
After being overwhelmed by the market, we headed to the park. There were puppet shows!
And also a play of Hansel and Gretel. The particularly clever aspect was the free candy they offered afterwards, so kids run up to get the free candy and their parents are guilted into handing over money. Smooth.
Niels Hoven
