9 November 2012

A day out in Country Spain



You know when you have those days when you're traveling that you never could have planned for, no amount of money would justify how special it meant to you and you can't believe it really happened? Yes? Well, Morgs & I were so blessed to have had one of those days just gone by in countryside Valencia.

We had rolled in to Valencia late evening (after booking a late train to extend our time in our beloved Barcelona) & had no idea what we wanted to do the next 4 days in this city we had barely even googled. One thing we did both agree too though, is that we were c.r.a.v.i.n.g some nature. After 3 solid months in big ole cities (Greece & Croatia withstanding) we were ready to re visit Mother Nature & spend some quality time among her trees & fresh air.... however we could. After literally the quickest Trip Adviser check, an email to the tour guide & literally picking the first tour that came up without even reading reviews (how hardcore I know), We were booked in with a tour called "Do Valencia!" and were officially off in to the countryside the next day.

Excitement Plus. 

Not sure of what the tour entailed exactly or what we could expect, we stayed true to our adventure spirit  and were getting picked up by our friendly local Spanish guide 'Migeul' first thing the next morning & were on our way.

Holy mother of all things holy though - our day was remarkable. Not only was it exactly what we needed - some quality time with nurturing mother nature, it was FUN & provided us with what we're always craving every new city we go to which is...an authentic experience. 

We visited waterfalls, swam in the most gorgeous crystal clear hot spring waters and climbed down hills to explore rivers & rocks. My favourite part of the whole day though was lunch time (does that really surprise anyone?) when Miguel took us to this tiny out of the way 'hole in the wall' restaurant in the smallest country town. The owner, a gorgeous old Spanish man treated us like family & from the second we walked in I knew I wouldn't want to leave! We ate the most delicious traditional Tapas I have ever eaten (& probably ever will), drank local homemade wine from a goat bag, and sipped cinnamon homebrew spirits as the owner explained how he made the wine, spirits & food (all in Spanish whilst Miguel translated in English). I tried Snails for the first time (I actually really liked them! They reminded me of lamb) and we did shots of green something' something' where first we had to dip our finger in it & the owner lit it on fire. Outrageous I know but I haven't laughed like I did in that restaurant with complete strangers (others from our tour) ever. 

It's days like that, almost unplanned, with complete strangers & no expectations that make me realise why I love travel so much ... they say travel is the only thing you buy that can make you richer and yesterday was a true testament to that. 

I am rich in every way possible through all that this trip has given to me in the way of life experiences, laughter, love & lessons and I will remember most of my days lived over the past 3 months (+ 5 weeks to go) till the day I die. Whether it be a quiet coffee with the man I love in an empty cafe, swimming in freezing water just because it was too beautiful not too, eating strange foods in strange countries, bike riding through snow capped mountains, crying as I embark on the walk of the Cinque Terre just because I'm that happy I was there I have realised one thing. I am RICH, happy and fulfilled beyond my wildest expectations...& I have travel to thank for that. 

The best things in life really are free and it's been the moments and experiences I've had on this trip that make me realise how beautiful life really is and how lucky I am here to be living.

All it took was some of natures beautiful scenery, a small bar, some snails, strangers & the love of my life to make me realise it.

With a heart full of love &  a belly full o' gratitude,

Anna x









































3 comments:

  1. Beautiful pictures! Looks like you are having the best time (and are taking the good weather with you). Valencia is added to my list of places to visit in Spain! Xo

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    Replies
    1. Im so glad its been added :) You will love it. The whole of Spain has THE most incredible feeling to it. Valencia was gorgeous...And is the home of the Paella so no matter what you'll enjoy yourself. xx

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  2. You must having an AH-MAZING time! Have lots of fun!
    If you get a chance, would you mind taking a moment to check out my new shop?
    http://bonjourangelina.blogspot.com/
    I would really appreciate it if you could also follow it! Thank you! x

    ReplyDelete

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