"STEP" stands for "Smart Traveler Enrollment Program" and is a free service offered by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) that allows American citizens traveling abroad to register their trip with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, enabling them to receive important safety updates, alerts, and easier communication in case of emergencies. No - you do not have to enroll but it is good practice when travelling aboard.

The total amount of euros you’ll need will vary based on the length of your stay in Europe. However, we recommend having at least €100–€150 for a week-long visit. This cash can come in handy for impromptu street purchases or souvenirs. That said, there’s no need to carry an excessive amount of euros, as Apple Pay and credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants, shops, and vendors. Of note, we typically do not carry a lot of Euro and use cards for nearly every purchase.

Transportation from Madrid Airport (MAD) Taxis and Uber services are readily available from Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). The standard taxi fare to the city center is €33, though prices may increase based on distance. While in the city, taxi fares are generally under €15 for most trips. The Madrid Metro is also an option from the airport, but for convenience and ease of navigation, we recommend taking a taxi or Uber for your first journey.

A chartered bus will be provided for transportation to the wedding venue from the Aloft Gran Via Hotel. Departure is at 17:30, and the journey will take approximately 30 minutes (possibly longer due to traffic), so please arrive on time to board. If you prefer to drive a rental car, that is permitted, but please inform us in advance, as parking is limited and must be registered with the property. After the celebration, the same bus will return to the Aloft at midnight (00:00). If you or your guest wish to leave earlier, you are welcome to do so, but you will need to arrange a taxi or Uber. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

Event Dress Code & Footwear Advice: The event is semi-formal—no need for an evening gown or tuxedo. However, please note that the groom will be in a tuxedo for your reference. As the celebration is held at a beautiful castle, the grounds feature dirt and stone walkways, so we recommend wearing appropriate footwear. And of course, come ready to dance and enjoy the celebration!

Both Toledo and Segovia are incredible historical cities just outside Madrid, offering stunning medieval architecture and iconic landmarks. For a hassle-free visit, many tour companies provide day trips from Madrid to either city—or even both in one day. These tours typically include transportation, guided visits, and sometimes entry to key sites, with prices ranging from €50–€90 per person. Each can be reached via bus, fast-moving train, or car if you so desire.

Yes, Madrid is generally a very safe city, especially compared to other major European capitals. However, like any big city, it's good to stay aware of your surroundings. Here are some key safety points: General Safety ✅ Low violent crime rates – Madrid is safe for travelers, including solo visitors. ✅ Well-lit and lively streets – Many areas stay active late into the night. ✅ Police presence – Officers frequently patrol tourist areas. Common Safety Concerns ⚠️ Pickpocketing – The biggest issue, especially in crowded areas like Plaza Mayor, Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol, and public transport (Metro & buses). 🔹 Tip: Keep bags zipped and in front of you, avoid leaving valuables on tables, and be cautious of distractions (these can be scams). ⚠️ Tourist Scams – Common tricks include fake petitions, bracelet giveaways, and "helpful" strangers offering to clean spills off you. 🔹 Tip: Politely decline and walk away if approached. Night Safety 🌙 Nightlife is safe, but stay aware – Madrid has a vibrant nightlife, and it's common for people to be out late. Stick to well-lit areas and use registered taxis, Uber, or Cabify to get home safely. 🚕 Public transport & taxis are safe – The Metro is reliable, but avoid empty carriages late at night. Licensed taxis (white with a red stripe) and ride-hailing apps are secure options. Emergency Info 📞 Emergency number: 112 (police, fire, ambulance) 🚔 Tourist police: There’s a special unit that helps visitors if needed. Overall, Madrid is a safe and welcoming city—just stay aware of your belongings, and you’ll have a great time! Let me know if you’d like neighborhood-specific safety advice. 😊

We strongly advise to take a photo of your passport on your iPhone and then leave the passport in your hotel room safe. If for some reason you lose and/or your passport is stolen, we will utilize Embassy services to obtain an emergency passport.

If you find yourself in a medical emergency while in Madrid, don’t worry – the city has high-quality healthcare services, including well-equipped hospitals and emergency medical care.

Gift Registry Information We are using "Honey Fund" for our gift registry. If you would like to contribute or purchase items from the list, we would be truly grateful for your support.

Again, while we love your little ones, the wedding and ceremony will be for adults only. Children are welcome at any and all other events. We are more than happy to help arrange childcare and babysitting as needed through Embassy vetted and cleared sitters. Additionally, we can help link families who have child care needs.