During our stay in Valencia, intriguing activities were scheduled each day. This page presents these occupations.
MONDAY
On the first day, after exploring a small part of Valencia and admiring the beautiful Fallas costumes and parades, our group headed to the first location on Monday's schedule: the Bioparc. Looking forward to this opportunity, both students and teachers gazed at the majestic animals. Moreover, ice-breaking games were conducted by our guide and soon-to-be friend, Norbert afterwards.
The Bioparc, which created interest among both students and teachers did not dissapoint.
The myriad of exotic animals and their beauty exceded our expectations.
The Bioparc in Valencia is a unique zoological park that aims to recreate the natural habitats of various animal species. Located in the heart of Valencia, Spain, it offers visitors an immersive experience, allowing them
to observe animals in settings that closely resemble their native environments. The park is renowned for its commitment to conservation and education, with a focus on raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the preservation of endangered species. Visitors can explore different themed areas, such as the African Savannah, Equatorial Africa, and Madagascar, where they can encounter a wide range of animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, gorillas, and lemurs. Through its innovative design and dedication to wildlife conservation, the Bioparc offers a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
After visiting the Bioparc, our group went to the Universal MOBILITY headquarters. There, Norbert, as stated before, our guide and soon-to-be friend organised intriguing ice-breaking games for us to get to know eachother better.
The first game consisted of one truth and a lie, where students had to tell the other ones one lie and two facts about them. However, these statements had to be made based on some cards which were dealt previously.
During the second game, the 14 students divided in two teams and chose a proxy. These two representants were required to draw an animal while blindfolded, whithout having seen the drawing prior. In order for them to be able to at least come close to the finished product, the other learners were guiding them using only words.
During both these activities we were required to communicate in only English.
TUESDAY
On our second day, all of us were excited about going to the Oceanogràfic, expecting nothing less than the experience we already had the previous day.
Being aware of its vast domain, we each sure to be able to visit each of the ten areas in time. Not only were we amazed by the exhibits, but prior to our journey, a magnificent film was projected on the walls of the Hemispheric. Afterwards, we divided in groups and started admiring the exhibits.
The 500 different species have awaken interest, transmuting us into their world, just like in a lucid dream.
It is a common belief among students that the Oceanogràfic accurately
replicates the natural habitat of the animals, that being the most interesting part of our visit. Not one exhibit presented depressed or sad looking creatures, as it often happens in other aquariums and zoos. Resulting from our journey, we acquired further knowledge of the world surrounding us as well as a different view on animals in captivity, acknowledging that not one creature is upset with it's situation there at the Oceanogràfic.
After leaving the Oceanogràfic although with a bit of sadness in our hearts, we were looking forward to the next activity.
Having the rare opportunity to visit Valencia during Fallas, we had the chance to observe and admire the traditions, from the costumes, to the parades and the songs, all interesting aspects of our staying.
Strolling through the city, the majestic statues and monuments were catching the eyes of all students. The kind people also make a staying in Valencia a true pleasure.
There is no doubt that Valencians have a close-knit community, as not only tourists were accepted by the residents, but also the other civilians.
WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY | FRIDAY
These last three week days, owing to the fact that the Fallas festival has ended, we were able to go to a local school, where we experienced the Spanish learning program. Moreover, we made friends along the way.
Each day, we were attending classes like any other Spanish learner. The students there were accepting us as their own, kindling friendships. After taking part in these classes, we were able to socialize with the other children, exchanging phone numbers and social media profiles in order to keep in touch. Other than that, our general knowledge has greatly benefited from those few hours spent in a different school than our own.
After finishing these classes, our group was cruising through the city, admiring the many touristic attractions, such as: City Hall Valencia, Iglesia San Martin, Cathedral of Valencia-Holy Grail, Mercado Central and Museo Tauri. Furthermore, we delighted our tastebuds with the delicious Valencian dishes, for instance Paella, without which a trip to Valencia is incomplete.
Other than the famous Paella, we have also tried Fideuà, Coca and Arròs a banda. These days were also memorable consequently to the games organized by Universal Mobility throughout the city center. These activities allowed us to connect with the civilians and other tourists by giving us missions, during which it was compulsory to engage in a conversation with strangers.
SATURDAY-OUR LAST DAY
Although sad regarding the imminent travel back to our home country, all of us were excited for the last activity in the schedule.
On the last day in Valencia, our group decided to visit the seaside on a walk. The picturesque surroundings were breath-taking. Other than that, we have visited a bridge where palm trees were planted admiring the majestic landscape.
