VALENCIA - Associate QMH has noticed some similarities in the cities he's visited in Spain so far.
- The inhabitants are very tribal. Each region and city has a deep pride about where they're from and the customs that come with it. Both Madrid and Valencia feature not only Spanish flags hanging on their balconies, but flags for specific cities as well.
- Magnificent churches are a dime a dozen. You can almost become de-sensitized by them after seeing a few, but each one has their special qualities and they are all nothing short of gorgeous.
- Soccer is huge...duh.
- Tapas are the be all end all. Not necessarily a surprise, but it's all you see as a food option when you walk around. Associate QMH appreciates the many options that come with it.
- Service is much different. Restaurant experiences are noticeably different, as here in Spain no one is in a rush to dine. It takes awhile to get your food and drink, and if you want to pay your check it's on you to ask for it. Otherwise, get comfortable.
It's actually an interesting time to be in Spain, according to our native guide, Tate. Most Spaniards, and Europeans in general, take their holiday in August, meaning many shops are closed and the bulk of people around are like us...meaning tourists.
Associate QMH loved being able to visit many different parts of Valencia, a city he realized is much more than you first think. Our hotel was right on the beach, with a local market next to us and other hotels, restaurants and bars nearby. Thursday, we ventured into the city proper, admiring the market, churches, fountains, and many other aspects you could guess to expect in a European country. We then drove down to the City of Arts and Sciences which features breathtaking, futuristic architecture that looks straight from a science fiction movie.
The group wasn't done there. We then drove out to a rural community outside of Valencia, passing rice paddies and a lagoon, to try the local Valencian dish of paella. Two kinds were featured, including seafood and chicken. Overall, the group stepped out of its comfort zone to try the food, which took a little courage for some, considering there was baby octopus scattered around the rice (no thank you).
While everyone is making sure to relax and enjoy the experience, the team is also taking advantage of its time together to play basketball. The Quakers practiced in Valencia, and have been waking up early for conditioning in each city.
It's time for Barcelona, where the team plays a game on Saturday! Until then...
#FightOnPenn
