A unique way to see Madrid (Madsegs Madrid Segway Tours)

Member Name: pagso

Product:	Madsegs Madrid Segway Tours
Date:	02/11/09 (32 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great fun, easy to use, memorable

Disadvantages: Might be a bit hot in the height of summer

Having seen this review when searching dooyoo for information on Madrid I was intrigued and signed us up for a morning segway tour on our short trip to the city. I am so pleased I did because it was a real highlight of our visit to Madrid and would highly recommend it as an easy and fun way to get an idea of the geography and highlights of the city.

WHAT IS A SEGWAY?

A segway is a battery-powered personal transporter that is a unique means of getting around; almost noiseless and is controlled by movements of your body - if you bend slightly forwards the segway moves forwards and if you lean slightly backwards it will go into reverse; if you stand upright and still the segway will remain motionless. You stand on a platform and hold onto handles although I think these are more for your own feelings of security rather than essential - it is the movement of your body that propels you so I guess you could operate the segway without using your hands at all.

THE TOUR

Instructions on where to meet Anthony who is the guide are clear and easy and you are given a good opportunity to practice getting on and off the segway and work out how it operates before the tour starts. The tour lasted for just over 3 hours and cost 60 euros which given how much we enjoyed it I think was great value and did include a beer and generous plate of sandwiches and crisps at a cafe stop.

The tour took in some of the most famous sights of the city and Anthony gave us lots of information about the history of the buildings while keeping a careful eye on us, pointing out potential hazards, and making sure we didn't crash into any pedestrians! Anthony is a Scot now living in Madrid and is very enthusiastic about the city and about segways! When we finished the tour we were given a dvd full of pictures of us on the segways and some video footage of us showing off our skills.

The tour would be suitable for all ages including sensible children, I think as long as you can stand straight you would find it really easy. A backpack rather than a handbag would be a good idea - and no high heels.

Unfortunately segways are not legal for use in the UK or I would be keen to get one!

Summary: Fanastic fun and unforgettable part of our trip to Madrid