My American is showing

  

Already can tell that Spainards are used to being a little more flexible than in the U.S., or the Asian counties I have visited more recently. 

Waiting for a train at Madrid's Puerta de Atocha Estación del tren begins with everyone hovering by the display board, waiting to find out what gate their train is coming in to. Which happens about 15 mins before the train arrives, and then everyone rushes to the gate. Then another line.

Then they've changed the train, so the seat I reserved doesn't even exist. Handed me a printed card with no consideration of window, aisle or solo seat I originally booked.

Lots of hurry up and wait. Not a place to  try and follow a super strict schedule, at least not for a first time visitor on day 1

Right now, I'm wishing I'd slept more than a few hours on the plane, so I