By Arjun Koradia
Valencia, a city known for its ancient history and coastal charm, was the starting point of my Spanish adventure last month.
Located in eastern Spain along the Mediterranean Sea, this autonomous community is well renowned for its vibrant culture and tourist attractions. My journey began with an excursion to Tabarca Island, a serene escape off the coast. Since I stayed in Benimaclet, a neighbourhood in the heart of Valencia, Tabarca Island was a 3-hour journey by bus with surprisingly beautiful views of vineyards and small towns. Since Tabarca was a small island off the coast, I took a short hop on a ferry.
Although rocky, the beaches made for the perfect day of relaxation. The warm waters allowed me hours of swimming time. Even though Tabarca was a tourist attraction that got far busier at around 2-4, I found various spots for relaxation.
My next destination was back home in Benimaclet. On the next day, Malvarrosa Beach welcomed me with its soft sand and a slight Mediterranean breeze. I joined my friends to play volleyball – even with a slight lack of skill – with the crashing waves as our soundtrack. The backdrop of the azure sea created a spectacular atmosphere.
Seeking a change, I ventured to the slightly closer villages of Montanejos and Fanzara. Montanejos advertised hot springs, although the water was closer to freezing. Both Montanejos and Fanzara had a quaint charm and provided a quiet retreat among the simplicity of life in the village. Fanzara is known for its graffiti and murals on the buildings.
For a thrill, I tried surfing along the coast of Playa de Las Arenas. Just like volleyball, I attempted to surf with my lack of experience, but that did not dampen the fun. Next was one of the highlights of my trip – Torres de Serranos (Serranos Towers). This is an iconic medieval gate that has been turned into a tourist attraction and a symbol of rich history. I ascended the 100 steps up the Torres de Serranos in Valencia’s heart. From the top, I saw breathtaking views of the historic part of Valencia and admired views of the lush Turia gardens below.
For yet another experience on the beautiful waters, I took a sailboat ride along the coast with a dip in the sea. The salty breeze and gentle sway of the sailboat were utterly refreshing.
Lastly, I explored Benimaclet, the vibrant neighborhood I was staying in, yet the place that I didn’t have a chance to explore until then. With the ease of public transport around Valencia, I was able to find local spots to eat and enjoy. The youthful and fairly modern vibe along the streets drew me in. I wandered through some of the narrow streets, with a few stops at cafes with delicious pastries. Throughout my trip, I enjoyed the fusion of traditional Spanish life and the chance to visit cozy cafes, chat with locals, and soak in the sun. These were the experiences that made my trip so unique.
Arjun Koradia is a grade 11 pupil at American International School in Lusaka who plans to become a journalist. He is currently being mentored by journalist Joan Chirwa, the founder of the Zambia Free Press Initiative.
