The Recap
Our time in Spain allowed us to test the waters of foreign travel with relative ease. We found our rhythm as nomadic travelers, moving frequently with very little drama. We never expected or wanted to see everything that we could in the little time we had. We wanted to get a taste for the different areas of the country with the goal of one day traveling to Europe again and exploring, in depth, those areas that we particularly enjoyed.
The Favorite
Valencia, the countries 3rd largest city at approximately 700,000 residents was, by far, our favorite. So much so, that Keith was talking of possibly purchasing real estate here with the intention of spending winters in a location with a year-round temperate climate. With easy access to beautiful beaches, it is a bike and pedestrian friendly city that feels like a small town. The mass transit system, whether it be the metro or the long distance trains are easy to navigate, clean and reasonably priced.
The People
People are people, no matter where you go. They keep to themselves and are too attached to their phones. The people of Spain are generally patient and warm and kind, but initiate very little contact with us andn rarely attempted conversation with us, which was unlike our experience in London. It could be the language barrier, though that didn’t preclude one kind, older gentleman who saw us perusing the metro map and noticed our confusion. Although he only spoke Spanish (and likely it was Catalan) and did so quite rapidly, he was able to relate the information to us which got us on our way and exactly where we needed to go.
The Learning
Some things that we have discovered as we travel …
The old town sections of each city … the energy and architecture of those areas are much more aesthetically welcoming and interesting and are not to be missed.
The markets, a Spanish (and likely, European) tradition are a must-see experience. Keith doesn’t see the appeal but the simple fact of going to them, forced us into parts of every city that must be experienced and we might have otherwise missed.
Spain also has dogs and some owners pick up after their beloved pets and many do not. Reminds me of home. And along those lines …
Watch your step. People live in apartments, not houses. There are no yards. There is a lot less green space between buildings and among dwellings which means dogs will do their business when and where they have to, including the sidewalks where loads of people walk.We saw many responsible owners and we also so much evidence of irresponsible owners. I thought that was a dirty American trait but it turns out it’s universal.
Public transportation is VERY easy. As every tour guide from Rick Steves’ to The Lonely Planet has suggested, cars are not necessary and can prove to be a hindrance and a hassle.
The Food
- Croquettes are unusual.
- Empanadas are good.
- Valencia has the best paella.
- The menu of the day is where it’s at.
- Be careful of deals that seems too good. They are. And they will find a way to get your money.
- Café con Leche is what you should order if you want a good cup of coffee.
- Cappuccino works in a pinch but isn’t quite as good.
- The house wine is good and cheap.
- Napolitana con Chocolates have WAY more chocolate than Pain de Chocolate.
That is it from us on Spain. We’ll see you in Greece!
Cheers!
Tree