Valencian Vibes

Ocean-air boardwalks and artsy, narrow streets intertwine in this city. City-goers and taxi cabs flock through the nice shopping areas of both big-name brands and small, artesan boutiques. Children run through the multiple quaint Christmas markets and elderly couples take strolls in the 60 degree weather of December.

The city of Valencia is not only defined by its contradictions but thrives on them. From its calm ocean waves to its vibrant metropolitan life as Spain's fourth largest city, Valencia seems like it could be a home to almost any and all types of people. Even after just one weekend, I know I would have loved to make my home in Valencia if I had to go somewhere other than where I am now, in Madrid.

Valencia is beautiful, and the atypical warm weather in December certainly helped my friends and I picture the city's summer "personality": fun, active and just plain beachy.

We ate paella on the beach (and in several other places since Valencia is famous for its paella, as it should be); we took a stroll down the boardwalks; we winded through the city's narrow streets, taking in its artsy atmosphere.

Just look at that view...

Paella de Valencia on the beach (Rice with chicken and rabbit)

One of my favorite attractions of Valencia, which I would recommend to anyone and everyone who visits, is the Cuidad de las Artes y las Ciencias (Museum of Science and Arts). This community of museums consists of a hemispheric museum (huge IMAX-like theater), a science museum and Europe's largest aquarium. It's no suprise that the museums themselves were extremely interesting, but even the museums' architecture and area surrounding the buildings were breathtaking. We literally spent all day at the museums.

Another one of my favorite attractions was Valencia's Cathedral. The inside is so beautiful that I literally stopped in my tracks as I walked through the entrance. We got to go up La torre de Micalet (the "Micalet" tower) that was built between 1381 and 1425. The tower is about 230 feet! So you can imagine the view we got at the top...or just look at my pics.

Valencia is a beautiful city with a calming, yet really fun and exciting atmosphere. Not to mention great food, which you'll get a look at in my next post!

#travel