This Weekly Moments is a bit of a crossover. A recap of the last days of 2025 and the first few days of 2026. Between travelling, family time, football, and celebrations, it was a full and very memorable start to the new year.
Back to Madrid
On Monday the 29th, I flew back to Madrid after a few days of very Dutch Christmas celebrations, which mostly involved a lot of food. It felt good to be back, slowly easing into routine again after the holidays.
Tuesday was a typical university day. Working on our project that’s due soon, where we’re currently creating a UEFA Champions League Open Media Day plan. That same day, my parents and sisters arrived in Madrid. We ended the day with sushi and catching up.
New Year’s Eve in Madrid
Wednesday was a long but really special day. It started with a nice lunch with Fran and a short walk through Salamanca before getting ready for the evening.
That night, my family and I celebrated New Year’s Eve at Restaurante Allegra, a beautiful Italian restaurant. The dinner was honestly perfect. From the appetizers with caviar, to multiple starters, to pasta with truffle, and finally dessert with a turrón mousse. Every course was better than the last.
Just before midnight, we were handed bags filled with gold party accessories, balloons, party blowers, horns, and paper boas, along with the traditional twelve grapes for midnight. We welcomed 2026 with live music, cocktails, and non-stop dancing. A truly perfect way to start the new year.
Slow Days With Family
Thursday was much calmer. My parents and I went for a long walk through Retiro Park, followed by lunch and more wandering through the city.
Friday felt like the perfect day for shopping, and we ended the evening with dinner at a small Italian restaurant in Salamanca.
Segovia and Match Day
The weekend was full again. On Saturday, I took a trip to Segovia with my friend Daniela from Mexico. We hadn’t seen each other in two years, so it felt extra special. We had lunch at a traditional restaurant in the city centre and tried cochinillo, Segovia’s famous roasted pig. It might not look very appetising, but it was genuinely delicious.
After lunch we walked through the city, visited the cathedral, saw the castle, and took way too many photos of the scenery.
Sunday came quickly, and this day we split up. My parents and sister went to the Real Madrid vs Barcelona basketball game, while I headed to the Real Madrid vs Real Betis football match. Real Madrid played really well, and Gonzalo had an impressive first game of the season. I also stayed to watch the press conference afterwards, which was a great experience and a nice way to end the week.
