Never ending destinations: the paella, the sun and the sea
Ground Cero [Zero]
Landing upon the grounds of the “Calles de Español” was a familiar setting, an acquainted view. It was perhaps something I had seen before, maybe in a dream or maybe a recognition of an island that I knew.
Even though it is my first time in Spain, there’s something that the country intertwines with my roots.
Spain, similar to my mother’s home country Puerto Rico, is magnificent, thrilling, and exciting. In 1408, Spanish settlers made their way to the “Isla del Encanto” where it continued to be a colony of Spain until 1898.
A great deal of history and culture rose from the Spaniards and today I get to witness where my mother’s language and history thrives from.
From the language, the food and everything in between Spain rich history allows for so much to be seen. The taste of the rice blended with seasonings of garlic, salt and onion much similar to the meals that mother makes at home. The croquettes filled with potatoes and meat that resemlbe the same smell, taste and touch of the rellenos de papas served on every street corner of Puerto Rico.
Here’s a quick inside look into culture, flavors, history, fashion and tourism that prevails the essence of the country and its authenticity.
El Idioma:Español [The Language:Spanish]
Entering the taxi cab upon landing, an immediate recognition of the language and its accent was one of the first alluring features of the country, something I have never heard before. it was the accent of the gentlemen who drove our cab to the apartment in which we would call home for the next month. It was the accents of my new house family: charming and captivating. These were the moments I had been anticipating. I was finally going to have the opportunity to test my skills in Spanish, and learn how to work in my second native language. Now, I begin my story with the accent because it was the first element of my new home that delighted me most. It was the first time in a long time, that I was going to communicate with someone of a different accent, something so foreign to home.
La comida más rica [Delicious Food]
Thereafter, comes the food. I can openly admit that food is one of my guilty pleasures. I enjoy everything about it: the taste, the looks and the process of how it is cooked. It is without question that the taste of Spain is one of the top reasons why this country is fascinating.
There is a range of Spanish dishes that satisfy your taste buds in more than one way. The rice dish paella being one of the most traditional offerings on most restaurant menus is a meal that is destined for at least two.
Here in Valencia, there is a specialty paella that is a mix of rabbit and chicken and sometimes snails depending on the season. One important and unusual factor to acknowledge is that the tap water of Valencia [and in earlier times the water voles] are some of the key ingredients to this authentic dish. It allows for a development of specific flavors ranging from strong, rich and salty.
Both my mind and both ached with discomfort from the delicious large portions that I devoured in trying this dish.
Another delicious item that is mandatory to try while being abroad in Spain is the seafood.
The grilled fish and the camaron frito are a few of my favorites — especially the calamari and the way the smell lingers from the distant with the perfect combination of both fried batter and fresh fish.
One impressive fact about Valencia is that there is ranges of cafe and restaurants to choose from on every corner at a bargain of a price. You can find Spanish tapas, Japanese restaurants, Middle-Eastern cuisines and even Mexican food with some of the spiciest salsas. Not only are the restaurants affordable, but there is quality in every meal.
Another highlight about Valencia is the way that Spaniards eat breakfast. For example, the most common meal in the morning is ‘Continental Breakfast’ which consists of coffee and toast and a touch of jam.
it is indigenous to their culture to take some time in the morning and enjoy a light bite prior to starting your day in full.
I admire this in many ways because growing up in United States it is instilled in us to have rushed, hectic mornings while working long, crazy hours.
La Arquitectura [The Architecture]
Historical landmarks and buildings throughout the cities of Spain reveal the history and the beauty of the country.
En el Plaza de la Reina in Valencia there is a range of museums, cathedrals and bell towers that thrive from their deep-rooted history. The aged balconies along every building sit beautifully with flowers ranging from white to yellow and all colors in between.
The details of the buildings and the manifested art captures the country’s beauty and antiquity in more than one way. For example, when entering the cathedrals you will notice there are gargoyles that surrounds most of the church. There is an ancient nature to these cemented creatures that portrays a great deal of history surrounding woman and prostitution.
Another fascinating fact about Valencia is the structure of the streets and the roads — as I walk amongst the roads I notice one thing in particular: the sidewalks are designed and valued for the space of the pedestrians, while the roads are quite narrow for vehicles and transportations. With this, I admire the respect they have for foot travelers and the need for it.
La Playa [The Beach]
Growing up in Southern California allowed for a great deal of exposure to beautiful beaches and water. However, here in Valencia — the way the Mediterranean Sea touches your feet is quite fascinating. When the water reaches your toes, it (becomes) presentS that the warmth from the sun has risen the temperatures of the sea enlightening the experience of becoming one with the beach.
The water is pure, clean and heated with flare allowing a range of people to enjoy it’s offerings. The beaches in Valencia are beautiful with so much that beams — the sand, the people and one of the seven seas. Now, Valencia is the third largest city in Spain with unlimited things to see. Stay tuned for my adventure and places that mustn’t go unseen.
