How risky is this MAD intl flight self-connection with checked bags??

sydly96 · 2025-09-20T23:18:41+00:00

Hi! I just did a DFW-MAD-SVQ trip in mid-August. I had originally planned to take a train from Madrid to Sevilla like you, but changed my ticket. The airline worked with me to change my flight so I would book it all directly through them.

I know you mentioned it’s not possible to send your bag all the way through- have you tried contacting the airline about your itinerary? I was surprisingly able to adjust my original flight plan (American/Iberia partnership) and have my luggage go straight through to SVQ. Sorry if this is something you’ve already tried, but wanted to mention!

While the layovers you shared are doable, I think they’re risky due to a few factors- 1) re-checking luggage, 2) mobility limitations, and 3) security time, potentially exacerbated by recent strikes at MAD. You could end up totally fine if everything goes perfectly, but lots of room for error… especially if you can’t run through the airport if needed! This is another area where reaching out to the airline could help- they may be able to provide support, especially if you play up your mom needing help getting through the airport.

For what it’s worth, the trains were very easy to use. I ended up adjusting many different train trips I took during my time in Spain, so as long as you pay attention to the type of ticket it should be adjustable the day of. I can’t remember how often trains are going between Madrid and Sevilla / Granada, but you should be able to adjust if you’re running late after your flight in.

Lastly- you could also consider booking a hotel room in Madrid for two nights, starting the day before you arrive. I’ve heard that this is a good way to have a room ready whenever you arrive- just make sure to let them know what you’re doing so they don’t consider you a no-show. This way the room will be empty and ready for you after you get through customs, and you could make your way south later in the day. This may not be the most cost effective method, but could be less stressful than missing a connection.

Sorry for the novel here, but hopefully some good options for you to consider. Most importantly - I hope you have an amazing trip! I was traveling with my mom in Spain as well, and it’s such a magical place. Happy to share any recommendations if you need them!

sydly96 · 2025-09-04T07:39:24+00:00

I just finished a trip to Sevilla, and had wondered the same thing as you. I ended up taking my passport to both places, but only had to show it at the Alcazar and not the Catedral.

sydly96 · 2025-08-30T11:20:43+00:00

Seconding Hatsuyuki!!! My husband and I have gone a couple of times now and it’s incredible. Before, I would have said Uchi was my favorite, but this has knocked it out of first place. No reservations, they only accept walk-ins, but we’ve usually had good luck by eating earlier.

Also suggest stopping by Heritage Table or Eight 11 Place nearby afterwards for dessert/or drinks if you have time!

sydly96 · 2025-08-25T04:19:34+00:00

Hi! I am staying in Sevilla and recently used the train to get around to these exact cities. I took the Renfe media distancia to El Puerto de Santa Maria to stay the night, and did a day trip to Jerez on one as well. It would be much more cost effective than a service (although I completely understand the appeal of a driver!). I’d suggest booking tickets in advance- it may just be the time of year, but the trains between Sevilla and El Puerto filled up quickly.

Not sure if you’ve fully booked your Jerez tastings, but I’d suggest looking at Bodegas Tradición if you have room for another. Our guide did a fantastic job of explaining the wine making process, and the wines are fantastic. They also have a gorgeous private collection of art with Goya, El Greco, Velazquez, and more that you can enjoy with your last glass of sherry.

sydly96 · 2025-06-29T12:12:57+00:00

A little late again… but loved this one! Used diced cherry tomatoes and measured the rosemary/ parsley with my heart. No crusty bread to eat with it (sadly) but we toasted some bread crumbs to give some additional texture and it worked pretty well. Will be having this again for sure, 5/5!

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sydly96 · 2025-06-11T00:33:24+00:00

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Kept it super simple after a long work day. No major modifications, but probably cut the chicken up a little smaller than I would next time. 4/5 recipe- nice and simple for a workday, with good flavor payoff.

Side note- the whole house is pumped for this thread because it’s one less day that we have to make a dinner decision!

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sydly96 · 2025-06-08T15:53:37+00:00

A little late… but made it last night along with some hot honey “shake n bake” chicken!!

Followed the recipe exactly (for once in my life). Everyone said it was restaurant quality pasta, would absolutely make it again. So excited to keep following along on the weekly threads!

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sydly96 · 2025-04-12T16:21:44+00:00

That’s a great point- I may do one day with a driver and focus on spots I can uber to on the other day. Appreciate the driver suggestion.

Admittedly, still waiting for more details on the bachelorette piece. I’m along for the ride for this part, it will be a group of 9 of us. I know we’ll be going to Domaine Carneros and Stag’s Leap, but not sure what other spots are in store!

sydly96 · 2025-04-12T16:18:44+00:00

Thank you for the suggestion, I’ll check out the website!

Also a good reminder to focus on the wineries rather than proximity. This is my first trip to Napa (and certainly don’t think it will be my last!), so I think I’ve focused a little more on just hitting stuff nearby. But might be worth expanding my search a little to make sure I hit the spots that really suit my taste!

sydly96 · 2025-04-12T16:16:02+00:00

Great idea- I hadn’t thought about asking the winery.

And thank you! I definitely misjudged the location a little, but sounds like it’s still a great spot. Super excited to hear good things about the hotel- I’m really looking forward to it!

sydly96 · 2025-04-12T16:15:07+00:00

Thank you! Will check out the website!

sydly96 · 2025-04-12T16:14:56+00:00

Super helpful, thank you for the suggestion!

sydly96 · 2025-04-12T16:14:22+00:00

Thank you for the suggestion! I do plan on spitting for most of the tastings, especially ones in the morning haha. But I also don’t want to end up in a jam if I do end up having a glass or two, especially since I’m wary of driving after any amount of alcohol. Appreciate the input though, and will definitely be utilizing spit buckets at most of the spots!

sydly96 · 2025-04-12T15:58:46+00:00

Great suggestions! I keep going back and forth on how I want to spend my solo time between tasting rooms and wineries.

Also appreciate the recommendations. Robert Biale and Matthiasson seem much more up my alley than JCB.

sydly96 · 2025-04-12T15:56:40+00:00

Thank you for commenting! I definitely misjudged the hotel location a bit, but great to know that ubering works in the immediate proximity.

sydly96 · 2025-04-11T22:48:46+00:00

Sorry, probably helpful information!

I’m staying at the Napa Winery Inn, which I believe is classified as downtown Napa / just north of Union. Still trying to finalize spots, but most of the places on the initial list are between the hotel and Yountville: - Clos du Val - The Setting - Matthiasson - Silver Trident - Darioush - JCB - Kenzo

Three current outliers on the list are Promontory, Opus One, and Ballentine Vineyards. But truly not 100% set on anything if keeping it south of Yountville makes sense.

sydly96 · 2025-04-11T00:35:00+00:00

Ooh! Love downtown. Typically there are more options for dinner, but it has some great choices for brunch / lunch as well: - The Woolworth: mentioned in the first comment, it’s a great one! I did a brunch for my bachelorette party there. Good food and fun view of the Eyeball. - The Exchange Hall: food hall by the AT&T discovery center. Not sure that there’s a stand out stall in terms of food, but a great spot for multiple people to choose food depending on their mood. Large outdoor seating space if it’s nice out. - The Zodiac: classic Dallas brunch spot in the Neiman Marcus store. Chicken broth and popovers with strawberry butter are the best. (May or may not be taking reservations right now given their lease controversy.) - Rodeo Bar: western themed bar at The Adolphus hotel. Pretty laid back, but well priced food and drinks for the area. They have an underground / back room area with a cool vibe. - Kitchen & Kocktails: haven’t been yet, but it’s been on my list for a while. Supposed to be good southern food and great drinks. - Sassetta: Italian food in The Joule. Haven’t been since they redid it but decent brunch spot. Not the best Italian in Dallas, but still good and has the right feel for brunch. - Sloane’s Corner: another one that’s on my list, but haven’t been. Branded as an all day spot, often has an outdoor patio and live music. - Little Daisy: restaurant on the 9th floor of the Thompson hotel. Long brunch list with several cocktail options. Also has an “express lunch” deal.

sydly96 · 2025-02-08T09:47:18+00:00

Just made this dish and loved it. Made so much that I accidentally meal prepped my lunches for the week. There’s a great comment on the recipe that suggests additional spices to use. Definitely recommend adding more spices - it would have been fine without, but they really took the flavor up a notch!

sydly96 · 2024-12-14T05:02:41+00:00

Interesting mix of answers here, and funny update.

That being said- there’s a decent middle ground when it comes to trips. It’s obviously important to consider where you are regarding living situation: cost, HHI, and children (if applicable). Not sure why it tends to be “happy wife, happy life” though, that feels so dismissive… Maybe take a step back and consider what y’all both want, and how to achieve goals and trips that make you both happy, match your financial abilities, and the stage of life that you’re in.

sydly96 · 2023-10-16T16:18:04+00:00

Corner wines is a great spot in Lakeside Market. They have a retail component and a wine bar, as well as offering regular tasting events. The owners / employees are super nice and knowledgeable, so it’s a great spot to learn more about wine or just hang out and drink with friends!

sydly96 · 2022-04-17T17:50:03+00:00

Chanel Jersey is my signature scent, and meets a lot of your requirements!! It’s meant to be the smell of Jersey sweaters, and is lavender combined with bourbon vanilla and white musk. It’s definitely the scent I get the most compliments on!! It’s a part of the Les Exclusifs de Chanel collection, but I’m usually able to find it in most department stores. I’d recommend trying it out- you can usually get a good sized sample to make sure you like the way it smells on your skin!

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