Tag: 13. April 2025

Our first week in Valencia continued with more Spanish lessons – this time we learned the names of weekdays and months, how to tell time, and all kinds of useful vocabulary related to food and kitchen basics. It’s been really helpful to build up a foundation, especially since we’re surrounded by the language every day. I still have a lot to learn, but it already feels easier to understand signs and little phrases in everyday life.

After class, we decided to take it slow and had a cozy movie night at the apartment. We watched Avengers: Age of Ultron – sometimes it’s nice to just stay in, especially with so many impressions and new experiences throughout the week.

To end our Spanish course, we surprised our teacher Jesús with flowers. It was a small gesture, but he really deserved it – his energy and humor made the lessons fun, even though we were all beginners. On the last day, we reviewed everything we had learned and took a short final test to see how much we had improved in just five days. I think we all felt a bit more confident afterward.

Later that day, my boyfriend and I went out for tacos – and the best part? They were only 1 Euro each! Honestly one of the best deals we’ve found so far. Afterwards, we explored the area around Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. The architecture is stunning – modern, futuristic, and super clean. But if I’m being honest, it also felt a bit too empty and quiet. You end up walking a lot, but there’s not that much going on once you’re there.

We also checked out more of the city center and took a look at the historic Bank of Valencia building. That area had much more life – busy streets, cafés, people everywhere. I really enjoy just walking around and discovering these little corners of the city.

One morning, we treated ourselves to a nice brunch in a neighborhood called Ayora. The toast I had was so delicious, I’m definitely going to try and recreate it at home. The area was lovely, but again, strangely quiet. I’m starting to wonder if we always pick the oddest times to go out – everything seems to be closed or empty when we get there!

To round off the weekend, we met up with Herr Maier, at the beach. We had a couple of drinks and talked about how things have been going so far. It was a really nice and laid-back way to reflect on our first week here.

Living with 8 people under one roof? Sounds like a sitcom. Or a horror movie. Depending on the day. It’s loud, it’s messy, and someone always steals your yogurt – but guess what? We actually look out for each other. We even chip in for cleaning supplies and food. Real adulting stuff. Gold star for us.

On the last day of our Spanish course, we gave our teacher Jesús a bouquet of flowers and snapped a group photo. The guy looked so happy, I swear he nearly evolved into a Disney character right in front of us. Pure joy, no filter needed.

Now, behind our house? BOOM – instant nature. Like, actual fields and flowers and chirpy birds. It’s all very Instagram-worthy. But if you’re headed to the supermarket, buckle up. There’s an „adventure route“ that involves climbing fences, dodging thorns, and risking your dignity. Indiana Jones, but for groceries.

This week we created a cleaning schedule. (Yay, democracy!) Guess who got picked first with Florian? Me. But plot twist: everyone bailed to go drink with Mr. Maier. Classic. So I did what any exhausted hero would do – I cleaned the whole damn house myself. Kitchen? Sparkling. Two bathrooms? Sanitized. Floors? Swept, mopped, and polished like Mr. Clean himself did a walkthrough.

Sure, it was tiring. Sure, I now have beef with every dust bunny in existence. But when the squad got back and said they could eat off the floor? Chef’s kiss. Also, it finally smells like lemons and justice in here.

Oh – and I treated myself. Bought the most expensive strawberries I’ve ever paid for. Worth every damn cent. Locally grown, sun-kissed perfection. No moldy imposters, no mushy disappointment. Just sweet, crisp, juicy flavor bombs straight from the fruity heavens. Best. Strawberries. Ever.

And the real MVPs of Valencia? The cats. They’re everywhere. Lurking, lounging, judging. You’re never alone on the streets here – there’s always a cat watching. Probably plotting. Definitely majestic.

EXTRA BONUS ROUND: It’s Palm Sunday – Domingo de Ramos – and we thought we missed the parade for Semana Santa Marinera. WRONG. Turns out, in our very own neighborhood, the evening procession had just started. Florian and I basically WWE-tag-teamed our way into clean clothes and ran to catch it.

And holy palm leaves, it was magical. Long lines of people in traditional robes, some barefoot, some carrying religious statues that look like they belong in the Vatican’s VIP section. Locals holding woven palm branches (a classic symbol of peace and Jesus‘ entry into Jerusalem), incense thick in the air, and solemn music from brass bands echoing through the streets. It wasn’t just a parade – it was a full-on emotional rollercoaster wrapped in tradition and goosebumps.

Valencia doesn’t just celebrate Holy Week – it lives it, breathes it, and marches it down your block like a boss.

Next week? I’ll be back with more chaos – and I’m checking out the local Easter festivities. Bunnies, eggs, and maybe a resurrection or two. Stay tuned.