Desperate for some sun, the 3 amigos (myself and two of the gals I lived with at uni) headed to Spain for a long weekender…
The trip officially started with a 3am wake up on the Saturday morning ahead of an early flight from Stanstead. As gross as our early start was, it meant we still got a full day at our destination (pending coffee). Stepping off the plane into a solid 25 degree environment instantly put us into holiday mode and we made our way to the central area. After a cheeky sunbathe and some tapas (calamari, croquettes, patatas bravas, & prawns for those interested!) we checked into our AirbnB – which had a very instagrammable balcony.
Trying to stay awake after heat and food is quite the challenge – but we didn’t need to in the end as siestas are a thing here. WIN. After a few hours kip we ventured out and enjoyed some paella and sangria wine, followed by a night on the town featuring ‘Agua de Valencia’ – google it.
Day 2 we were up and out to join a free walking tour, ‘Valencia Essentials‘ which revolved around the main attractions. It was the right amount of time and took us past the Cathedral, the Silk Exchange, Central Market as well as other small city charms. Our guide spoke about the history of Valencia (the name means ‘brave’) and I also learned that they only get 15 days of rain per year – when can I move?!
After hearing about traditional foods and drinks it was only right to indulge in a big meal at a restaurant recommended by the locals – El Forcat. Accompanied with Sangria wine, we had traditional Valencian paella which had chicken and rabbit with vegetables. Following this we went for some ice cream, and I was elated to see Dulce de Leche on the list.. something I first fell in love with in Argentina.
We then mooched around the city and explored the shops before a mandatory siesta. In the evening we ate Italian food before heading over to the Arts & Science Park. Our real intention was to party at the open air bar but unfortunately it was closed on Sunday (we were too lucky with Sunday Klute in Duz).
For our final day we hired bikes from a place around the corner, and hit up the bustling market for some breakfast. After empanadas, croissants, and iberico ham we cycled 5km to the beach, Platja de Malvarrosa. We certainly picked the right day as the sky was totally clear!
We snoozed and snacked until early evening when we cycled back through the park (Jardin Turia) and rounded off the excursion with some sangria.
It would also seem we saved the best food till last… we dined at Jamon Jamon and ordered plenty of exquisite tapas, the sausage in cider sauce being my favourite.
Unfortunately, just as we had adjusted to 10pm dinners it was time to fly back to blighty…
Check back for some cruise news in a few weeks!
