Wednesday Fun in Valencia

Today is Wednesday here in Valencia and it was our free day as students. I would be lying to you if I said that I didn't catch up on some sleep! After waking up, the group decided to take a trip to a lunch joint. It was a holiday here in Valencia so most of the stores and cafes were closed but we found a small place close to the hostel. As we walked in it was evident that the cafe catered to Americans because the food was "international". What I mean is that it wasn't traditional Spanish food but it was pastas and other dishes that were universal with a Spanish twist.

Eating is something I haven't spoken about much, but it has been quite an adventure. There is always a small language barrier and the culture brings on differences also. it is sometimes hard to order as sometimes we don't know what dishes are or the waiter/waitress doesn't quite understand our orders or questions. Also it is against cultural standards to split the bill so figuring out exact change for the whole group is interesting! All in all though, the people are nice and helpful and we always get full.

For the remainder of the day we traveled to the beach (la playa) to spend our time. it was a bit more crowded today due to a holiday but the weather was great. After the beach we took a cab back to the hostel to get ready for our night out. We decided to make no plans and just stop at the first place that looked good, and that first place was a burger joint. Here we were greates by a waiter who spoke English also, but the burgers were served Spanish style!

I think the moral of my story today is that one country can influence another, but it will never totally stray too far away. Even though we ate no traditional Spanish food, it had a Spanish twist on it. The experience is awesome and something I have never experienced but it is coming to a close end. Tomorrow is a full day but will bring alot of things to my table.