Valencia

Arrived early morning in Valencia after another sea day.  Sadly, we passed through the Straight of Gibraltar in the middle of the night.  This would have been a highlight for me.

We visited Valencia (you know, like the Valencia Oranges...yes they grow large amounts here) and their Aquarium.  So many interesting things here...jellyfish, shark, beluga whales and a replica of a Great Blue Whale. 

New archectural center of Valencia of which the Oceanographic center was part.  "Travel through the longest underwater tunnel in Europe, below the sharp teeth of sharks, and discover the only family of beluga whales in Europe.

Immerse yourself and be amazed by the most important marine ecosystems in the world represented at Oceanogràfic Valencia"

Time to head to Tapas (small plates to share) for some eating...

Passed the Columbus Market Place

To a old town market place first...this was the first sunny day in 8 days and Valencians were out enjoying the beautiful day.

Sitting atop the Ateneu Mercantil de València having first Tapas and wine.  Overlooking the Plaza below.

And finally testing out Hortchaca de Chufa...not all like Mexican rice Horchata. 

Horchata de Chufa is one of Spain's most famous drinks. You might call it Valencia's version of the milkshake! Made of ground chufa nuts grown in the Valle de Nito in Spain, horchata is sweet and refreshing with a touch of lemon and cinnamon. Serve very well chilled. Horchata is the signature beverage of Valencia.

Very refreshing and I guess good for me!  We could dunk the powdered pasties in it as that is part of the tradition.