Day 15 - Valencia Day 2!

Our day began at a snails pace today- we have earned it! With the blinds closed and no light trickling in we slept soundly until 8am. We then lazed around in our beds, reading the news and catching up with the outside world.

Today we had planned a leisurely day of exploring -  on foot! The morning was overcast but it was already 24C when we headed out at 11am. We began our walk to a brunch location- Milk and Butter. We passed the FC Valencia stadium - insanely huge (That’s what she said 😂).

Valencia Stadium

As we travelled along we went through different neighbourhoods and definitely into a more upscale area. We have yet to see any single family homes - all apartment living around here. 

Apartment Living

The brunch options looked good and we both opted for French toast, freshly squeezed OJ (when in Valencia!), Julie an Americano and I had a cappuccino. It was delicious and the juice was off the charts. 

After a relaxing brunch we headed towards the neighbourhood of El Carmen, the oldest neighbourhood in Valencia. We can now verify that Google mapping Burger King or Taco Bell locations will lead you directly to high traffic tourist areas- crazy.

As we approached one area there was a huge outdoor festival ongoing. The food fair sampling was to promote EU Rice. They were selling a food sample that contained EU rice to promote its support. There were vendors and artisans selling items produced in Valencia. The atmosphere was one of fun and community. On our walk we noticed many places do not operate on Sunday.

We found the Barrio of Carmen area where we saw old portos, arch ways from the old entrances to the walled city. There was an old basilica and city hall among others. Street art adorns every wall and many buildings throughout the city, it is beautiful. 

Portos

 

Basilica

Street Art

The city is filled with giant swaths of green spaces, playgrounds and bike trails. The streets were packed with families and friends visiting and enjoying meals. Most were not on phones but were talking and connecting. It really was inspiring. 

We have been chilling back at the room for a few hours and at 8:40 pm we decided maybe we should eat something. We walked into the restaurant at the hotel but the server said maybe later there would be space for us. Not wanting to risk going without we head over to the mini supermarket. I opted for a Magnum ice cream bar with a Coke Zero, no caffeine. Julie chose sour cream and onion Pringle’s and a .55 euro beer! Nothing but the best for us 🤣🤣

We ordered our taxi for tomorrow morning to take us to the train station as we head to Madrid, our last stop! Wow. It has been nice to take a slower pace here in Valencia. Thanks for reading, next stop Madrid!!!

Julie
High - Freshly squeeze Valencia orange juice- delish.
Low - No fans the bathrooms.

Amanda
High - Watching people connect with one another.
Low - Not getting quite enough time to cross busy streets.