Valencia, Spain - James

Where are you originally from?

Born in Hong Kong, but raised in South Africa.

What is your profession?

Project Manager within the IT industry.

How long have you lived in Valencia?
In October 2021 it will be 4 years.

Why did you move to Valencia?

My girlfriend and I had always liked Valencia and Spain in general since we first visited back in 2015. We did a road trip from Barcelona to Valencia and ending in Alicante for a friends wedding. While on this trip, we were getting a feel for each city and thinking of which city we would move to if we could move to Spain. Valencia stuck out to us as its a city that is not too big and not too small, plenty of things to do and a good mix of local vs expat communities.

What is particular about Spanish culture?

Spanish people really know how to enjoy life. In Spain it is very much a work to live rather than a live to work culture. It has its flaws and merits living as an expat in this culture and does take some time getting used to the slower pace of life. Spain is also very big on family and community. The classic scene of a family lunch on a Sunday at a restaurant, sharing a big Paella is what you will typically see during the weekend, which can make it difficult to get a table at your favorite restaurant for lunch if you do not book in advance.

What is your favorite thing about Valencia?

The Turia River in Valencia is a dried up river that runs through the city (10KM long). It was turned into a park that now has beautiful paths for walking and running, open field spaces to hangout or have a picnic and play areas/ football fields. I always say that New York has Central Park and Valencia has the Turia Park.

What would you recommend to people who are thinking of moving to Valencia?

If you want to move to Valencia, I would highly recommend contacting an agency to help arrange any admin related things for you prior to your arrival. Things such as; apartment viewings, opening a bank account, setting up utilities and internet in your apartment, reviewing rental contracts and more. This saved us a lot of time and stress of having to manage along side the move itself from the UK. We used Yes Valencia to help us to find an apartment (recommend areas to live based on our preferences) set up bank accounts and manage the apartment "setup" once we signed the contract. They also offer other services such as help with getting national insurance and social security among others.

What are some things that in your opinion people do not realize about Valencia?

Valencia is actually the third biggest city in Spain after Madrid and Barcelona. The birth of Paella happened in Valencia and the Valencian people are very proud of the Paella. They will take offense if you mix seafood and meat together and don't even think of adding peas to the pan. For anyone interested, the original Paella Valenciana includes: Rice, Chicken, Rabbit, Green beans and butter beans.

What has been the hardest part about moving to Valencia?

Language has been a bit of a challenge since moving to Valencia. You can get by without knowing too much Spanish when first moving to Valencia, but if your intention is to be in Valencia indefinitely, then learning the language is a must. This has been tricky for me since moving because although I am able to manage the day to day tasks in Spanish, it becomes increasingly difficult when needing to have a conversation beyond saying "hola, que tal" or trying to order something. On top of that, working in an English environment does not help/ encourage you to speak Spanish so your exposure can be limited.

What is your favorite memory of living in Valencia?

Las Fallas is an annual event that takes place in Valencia in March. It is also a UNESCO Listed event. Every year from the end of February until the 19th of March, the city transforms into one major street party. Massive structures are set up around the city, there are firework displays that take place each day in the main square, the whole city comes to a halt for 5 days in March in celebration of Las Fallas. Street bars popping up on each corner and stages being built with DJs and bands playing all around the city, even entire main streets are taken over with light displays. The first year we moved to Valencia and got to experience this first hand was really something that you cannot fully explain until you have experienced it for yourself.

Any places / activities you would recommend to people planning on visiting Valencia?

There are plenty of attractions in Valencia and there is definitely something that caters for every persons preference. The usual City tour is a must as you really get to see the city and its history along with some hidden gems which you cannot find in guide books such as the Chewbaca face sculpture engraved on a church in the city center or acoustic illusion in the arch of the Science museum. Exploring neighborhoods around is also worth while to do as you get to see a wide variety of architecture that differ between neighborhoods. The food scene is great as well. For trips around or outside Valencia, the Albufera rice fields are a must and to have lunch in the area as well. It is after all where the Paella originates. Outside of Valencia, there are many smaller towns/villages one can visit, for example Xativa, a trip to its castle is quite impressive with spectacular views. If you have more time and enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of hiking routes within 1-1.5 hour drive from Valencia which do not disappoint.