Man, I can’t believe 2008 is already coming to an end. In February, we moved to Valencia from Western Ireland, exchanging one the Europe’s worst climates for one of its best. We experienced our first Fallas celebration in March, and during the summer hosted a ton of friends and family, who were eager to explore Valencia and see if it was as great as we kept saying. (It was)
We thought we’d say goodbye to our first year in Valencia, by taking a look back at our favorite posts. Hope you all enjoy a fun & safe Nochevieja!
1) ¡Despertà, Valencia! – February 24th
At 7:30am, I shot out of bed and looked around frantically for a bible, certain that Armageddon was upon us…
2) Sueca – Street of Lights – March 15th
Part of Fallas is the annual competition of lights, and traditionally Calle Sueca in Russafa carries off the prize…
3) City on Fire – Valencia’s Cremà – March 20th
Last night, more than 750 monuments were burned during La Cremà — the fiery, official end to the Fallas celebrations…
4) Explore Valencia’s Harbour – September 5th
Taking a walk at the harbor is a must when visiting Valencia. Preferably when it’s not too hot, and right before sunset…
5) First Visit to the BioParc (Valencia Zoo) – February 28th
This morning, we took the first of what will likely be many trips to Valencia’s brand new zoo, the BioParc…
6) Last Mascletà – Fallas 2008 – March 19th
This is the craziest thing I have seen – Best Mascletà Ever! I couldn’t even hold the camera still…
7) The Traslado of the Virgin de los Desamparados – May 23rd
One of the most insane religious gatherings I’ve ever seen…
8) Bullfight Valencia: Matador gets gored – March 17th
Yesterday, we went to the bullfights in the Plaza de Toros. Towards the end of the very first fight, a cocky matador named “El Califa” tried and failed to finish his bull off…
9) Wine Festival: Heaven on Earth? – April 4th
Hundreds of people milling about, providing an atmosphere which starts good and gets better as everyone gets more and more drunk…
10) Ballroom Dancing in the Pl. de la Virgen – July 21st
Anyone who’s bored in Valencia is simply not trying…
Whew! It was really a full year, and we’re looking forward to an awesome 2009. Hope you’ve enjoyed the blog so far!