Spring sunshine in Valencia

My suggestion for a spring break near Paris (Springtime in Paris) was greeted with sighs of indifference by my unappreciative offspring. Apparently Mickey and friends are sooo last year among the teenage and tweenie cognicenti of Bristol.

Undeterred I logged onto the Easyjet website to search for a cheap flight out of Bristol – preferrably to somewhere with warm weather, a beach for the children and a bit of culture for me. Valencia seemed to fit the bill on all counts.

The city has an interesting old quarter, a vibrant café life and a port that hosted the America’s cup last year. I can already feel the sunshine warming my cheeks and the smell of paella in the spring air. I liked the look of the futuristic complex of The City of Arts and Sciences, perhaps to wander round the L’Umbracle, the greenhouse full of tropical plants from all over the world.

Sadly we’d miss the Fallas carnival in March, where the the city indulges it’s pyromaniac tendancies, burning enormous papier-mache sculptures and setting off fireworks.

Searching for a hotel that wouldn’t break the budget for a family of five, I came across this amazing place, Rooms Deluxe. It’s the most upmarket of the three Hôme hostels and each of the 28 rooms has been designed by a different artist.

As my two boys like everything LOUD, I thought that this room might appeal – put your sunglasses on before entering. Designed by Danish artist Richard Sorenson it’s a reflection on explosions and chaos.

For my daughter, the manequins suspended from the ceiling of this room might appeal to her shopping tendancies. Designed by Madrein Spain it’s inspired by a tranquil swimming pool where there are no jelly fish or sea urchins to sting you.

For me something a little more elegant. This dark and passionate room by Argentinian born Exequiel Tiscornia, celebrates the mystery and rhythm of flamenco.

But if hubby and me were feeling a little naughty, we could always change to the sexy love-nest with the mirrored ceiling – take a look here.

If you’re thinking of visiting Valencia, the following websites will help your planning.
- For a good overview of Valencia try ValenciaValencia or About Valencia
- For a more alternative look at the city try This is Valencia or Valencia tourist guide

If you fancy a little on-line travel reading to get you in the mood, take a look at the following travel articles;
Up for the cup - Guardian 21 April 2007
The A-Z of alternative breaks - Guardian 17 February 2007
C’mon baby, light my fallas - Guardian 10 March 2003
Weekend to Remember - Telegraph October 2004
Weekending: Valencia - Telegraph 12 February 2003
Spain’s perfect Paella - Sunday Times 19 August 2007
Valencia, you must go - Sunday Times 15 June 2007

Thanks to arieldiaco and viajar for the use of their photos on Flickr.com under creative commons.

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