Some souls just understand each other upon meeting. -N.R. Hart
When I first arrived in Spain my soul connected with it. I felt at home, I felt like I belonged and this wonderful place somehow greeted me as if we were old friends. Ever since the day I boarded a plane back to the US I have tried to return. I know the timing in my life isn’t right yet, but I believe someday I will get to call Valencia home once again.
The second I stepped out of the airport and saw the palm trees and felt the sunshine on my skin, I knew I was once again home. Bringing my parents with me only made this trip even more special. Everything was right with the world. Unfortunately for the blog, I didn’t snap many photos while I was there so the credit for most of these photos goes to my mom. Thanks mom!
Plaza de Toros
One of the first places we saw on our journey and a place I walked past daily when I lived in Valencia was the Plaza de Toros. The ring is currently under construction so you can’t go in. I had already been inside before and so I wasn’t too disappointed by this news. I’m not a huge fan of bullfighting but I understand the importance within the Spanish culture.
Our Rooftop Balcony
While in Valencia we stayed in an adorable Airbnb in Ruzafa. It was very close to where I used to live and it felt like home. My absolute favorite part about it was the rooftop balcony. I sat out there as much as I could. It really made me wish that I had a rooftop balcony or at least a balcony.
Torres de Serranos
Our first day there I took my parents walking around the whole city. One of my favorite places in the city is the Torres de Serranos. I don’t know what it is about them but I just love them. We didn’t climb up into them to explore but admiring them from the ground is just as great. I also have an obsession with flags and so I especially love this photo I took of the towers.
Paella
When in Valencia you must have paella. Paella originated in Valencia and it is a must eat if you are in the area. My parents had paella Valenciana which includes rice, chicken, rabbit, beans and so much deliciousness.
La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias
The Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias is one of the coolest places in Valencia. It was designed by Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela. Calatrava also designed the Milwaukee Art Museum in Wisconsin. When I first saw the City of Arts and Science in 2010 I felt even more at home in Valencia due to the fact that it reminded me of my other home- Wisconsin. I love how futuristic all of the buildings look and feel of the area.
La Playa
One of the best days in Valencia was the trip we took to the beach. While I didn’t bring a swim suit, and really wished I had, it was so much fun. Stepping back into the Mediterranean was cold, refreshing and wonderful. You can see both of my parents behind me walking through the sand on our way home.
This return trip was amazing and of course I already want to return again because when your soul connects with somewhere you long for it. I feel especially lucky to have had time in Valencia and can’t wait for the day that it calls me home again. Where does your soul connect in the world?
