🦩 Discovering Valencia Over a Weekend 🥘

We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us. – Anonymous

Hello there,

Remember that trip I kept raving about to Valencia? Well, I finally squeezed it in and let me tell you, what a whirlwind! Imagine: vibrant plazas buzzing with life, mouthwatering tapas melting on your tongue, and futuristic architecture shimmering by the sea. Valencia had it all, and I managed to pack it all into a glorious weekend adventure.

So, grab a virtual café con leche and get comfy, because I'm spilling the beans (or should I say, the paella rice?) on all the highlights. From hidden gems to must-see landmarks, I'm gonna share my experience and tips to make your own Valencia escape unforgettable. Buckle up, it's gonna be a delicious ride!

On a less delicious note, the story of Guillaume and what will surely remain his worst ever train journey.

VALENCIA: WHERE HISTORY, SUNSHINE? AND TAPAS COLLIDE! 🥘

Imagine yourself strolling along the golden sands of Las Arenas beach, where Valencia's elite once built their lavish summer homes. The Mediterranean shimmers like scattered diamonds, inviting you for a swim in its legendarily calm waters.  (Did you know Valencia boasts over 300 days of sunshine a year? Pack your swimsuit!)

History Whispers in Every Corner

Valencia isn't just about beaches and tapas (although those are pretty stellar too!). This city boasts a rich tapestry woven by Romans, Visigoths, and Moors, each leaving their mark.

Beyond the Bullring

While the iconic Plaza de Toros might be a famous landmark, Valencia offers a more ethical alternative. Visit the innovative Bioparc, where animals roam freely in recreated ecosystems – a far cry from traditional bullfighting.

Fall in Love with the Fallas

Planning a trip for April (or any month)? Immerse yourself in the electrifying Fallas festival, a UNESCO World Heritage celebration. Witness towering, satirical sculptures (ninots) made from wood and papier-mâché, before they go up in a spectacular, fiery farewell on the night of March 19th.

A Feast for the Senses

Of course, no trip to Valencia is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. But beyond the legendary paella, delve into the world of "horchata de chufa," a refreshing (and slightly addictive) tiger nut milk beverage – perfect for those hot summer days.

Hidden Gems Await

Venture beyond the main squares and discover the hidden charm of the Carmen district. This labyrinthine maze of narrow streets boasts charming cafes, trendy boutiques, and remnants of Valencia's medieval walls.

Explore Like a Local

Rent a bike and explore the city like a Valencian. The extensive network of bike lanes makes for a safe and eco-friendly adventure.

 Valencia is a city that surprises at every turn. So ditch the guidebooks, embrace the unexpected, and get ready to fall in love with Spain's sun-drenched gem!

TRAVEL DIARIES

Guillaume’s awful train journey

“There was the time I fell ill on the Trans-Siberian Railway. For the first time in my life I had eaten in a Subway (in Novosibirsk) and I had indigestion (just bad luck, apparently, my mate had no problems at all). On the sleeper train (platzkarts) for a day and a half. At the other end of the carriage, a group of very muscular, drunken young Russians were singing and shouting the whole way. In the evening, when most people were going to bed, they noticed that I was still awake and that I kept going to the toilet and back. And I probably looked like a tourist too. So two of the guys intercept me and want me to have a drink with them. They come and sit on my bunk and talk to me, shouting and reeking of alcohol. They make me drink while I'm fighting not to shit myself or throw up. I try to tell them that they need to understand that I'm in a bad way and that they should leave me alone; they understand the first part but ignore the second, repeating for hours that they learnt French at school ("oune, deu, troa, éléphant, giraffe") and that you have to drink to get over the illness. In the end, I couldn't sleep, my bunk-mates glowered at me (my friend almost gave me a stern talking-to the next day because I'd prevented him from sleeping), and it wasn't until the next morning that another young Russian came to tell them to leave me alone. Except that he too wanted to talk...One of the worst trips I've ever had.”

MINGO-MEMES

VASCO-SNAP OF THE DAY

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glenfinnan, United Kingdom