Valencia In summer 2007, Valencia hosted the prestigious America cup, a yacht race that attracts visitors from all over the world. The tournament was a great success and the town will host the event again in 2009.

Valencia has its own traditions, which are strongly and proudly preserved. For example Valencians have their own language-Valenciano, which is quite similar to “Castellano”,(official Spanish) end even closer to Catalan. DON'T make a mistake of calling Castellano Spanish, when talking to a Valencian, as they consider Valenciano to be just as Spanish! Many linguists would call Valenciano a dialect of Catalan, but I would steer clear of suggesting that to a Valencian. However, all Valencians are bilingual and are happy to speak to you in normal Spanish, so do not expect the same kind of linguisitc arrogance you would find in Catalunya. Valenciano is more commonly spoken in the little villages surrounding Valencia.

One last word about Valencian people. They are very kind, talkative and helpful, but also quite spontaneous. If the person behind the counter is in a bad mood, they don't care about showing it and they won't find it necessary to entertain you. If you come from a culture in which politeness and smiles are common it could be a shock…but don't take it personally.