Valencia

Day 11-13

We’ve arrived in Valencia. Airport to city center by metro was seamless and our host’s directions got us to our destination with minimum fuss.

We will be sharing the flat of two 30-something architects who have recently completely a renovation of the premises. It’s very nice with many tasteful touches which no doubt I will expound on as the days go by. We are here for a week.

As I write this I’m perched on our private balcony looking down on Plaza de Negrito. The morning air is warm, the sun casting shadows on the opposite-facing buildings, and our first coffee and napolitano chocolate still lingering on my taste buds.

This is the beginning of our third day here and the plan is to take the bus to the beach, wander around the nearby neighborhood, and possibly get my knees wet. We dined beside two Parisian women the other night and one commented that she had been swimming in the sea during the day and her friend had given the ‘loco’ sign and said it is too early for swimming.

Both Madrid and Sevilla had their strengths but are colored through a more conservative lens than Valencia. More black clothing and less exposed skin in general from the locals there. But here there are no such limitations as we are now in Catalonia where Valencia and Barcelona both vie for supremacy.

In the background there is political upheaval as Catalonia wants more autonomy from the state; somewhat similar to Quebec’s aspirations in Canada.

Catalonia is also the economic generator for Spain and life here is colorful and vibrant. The Mercado Central is one of the largest markets in Europe covering almost 8000 sq. meters and is a short walk away from us. Housed in a beautiful historic building with a large plaza outside the main door it is inviting visually as well as aromatically.

Again because the city layout is centuries old there is no grid pattern to the streets and many small lanes and plazas create complications even for our device apps. It means there are surprises around every bend with each courtyard different from the last.

Some plazas, even small ones, have grand fountains and almost all are ringed by cafes, bakeries, tabernas, or tailor shops. Shop local isn’t a tagline here it is the culture.

We’ve had great meals and the cost comparison to back home is favorable. It’s been a wonderful start to our stay here and I’ve had to bite my tongue not to gloat more about our circumstances.

Off to the beach and I’ll talk to you later. Hasta la vista.