Valencia

We were invited by DD's boyfriend to join them in a sightseeing trip to Valencia. Having only been to the city for the airport, this was something completely different. We both drove to the outskirts then left our car at a commercial park and tranferred to theirs. He had lived in the city for two year and certainly knew his way about. We headed towards the science and exhibition halls which were built on the dry river bed.

Here there is no such thing as a dry river bed, as when the gotafria comes everything is awash. Apparently this happened in 1957 when the city was swamped with 15 ft of water, they decided to redirect the river and build a motorway on the bed, luckily they changed their minds and created a beautiful park.

These futuristic buildings were built to house the planetarium, opera house, oceangraphics and exhibition halls.

Viewed from different angles they created different images and reminded us of a set for Star Trek.

We had a lovely afternoon and were so glad A was driving, it was mad and manic, we drove towards the port along a very straight road that had 24 sets of traffic lights, luckily after hitting the first one red the rest changed just as we got there. The city is built on a grid system so you can understand the need. A was a brilliante guide showing us some of the cities most beautiful buildings along with the America's cup area, the bullring, football stadium, and we drove along the grand prix circuit.

Towards evening the streets suddenly hit a standstill, then everyone started sounding their horns, what a din, didn't help ofcourse but perhaps it made them feel better. Turned out it was a (peaceful) demontration marching along with bands keeping them in step as they travered the street. We scooted off to an underground carpark and wandered around for awhile.

We finished the day off by having a menu del dia at one of the many restaurants. With an hour and a half journey back we arrived home late, but it was worth it for such a lovely day.