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French tourists weary of their strict national lockdown are flocking over the border to Madrid, where bars and restaurants are open and people can stay outdoors until 10 p.m., even as COVID-19 batters Europe in a virulent third wave.
“Here, there’s life – everything’s happening!” said 22-year-old student Clara Soudet as she left a live music event near Madrid’s bustling Gran Via. Soudet arrived just before New Year’s Eve to visit her boyfriend and taste the different vibe.
“It’s all open. Even with a curfew, you can still do lots of things, so we make the most of it … I felt such relief when I sat at my first terrace.”