Page 165 - Puissance Euro 1

Both to horse and horseman alike this southern Spanish city is a real EldoradoCongresos’, the ‘City of Arts and Scienc- es’, the ‘Hempisphere’, the world’s larg- est ocean museum and a gigantic opera complex. Actually those are only some of the recent architectural masterpieces around town. Those places of interest are all within walking distance of the historical city centre or only at a stone’s throw as you can always hop on a well functioning, efficient public transport system by tram, bus or tube. The histori- cal centre, known as ‘Valencia Edetaro- rum’, was founded by the Romans some 138 years B.C. Well preserved remnants clearly show the subsequent traces of Byzantine, Moresque, Arab and Christian cultures.A city close by the seaValencia may have a considerable beach of more than 7 kilometres, others Spanishcoastal cities seem to attract more tourists for a sun and sea holiday. The many places of interest though largely make up for attraction by many historical buildings, churches, muse- ums, exhibitions, concerts, sports matches and various sorts of entertainment. The clash between the historical centre and the modernist periphery is unique because it constitutes a balanced harmony of past riches, tradition, modern archi- tecture, design, art, culture and a Mediterranean style of life. Tourist top events include the ‘Vicente Martin’ processionin January, the ‘Las Fallas’ festivities in March and the flower festival in July. The sports menu is rich as well with the annual ‘F1 Grand Prix’, the ‘Global Champions Tour’ for horse-riding and the many regattas.Very different and yet so closeThe direct flight from Brussels or Amsterdam to Valencia lasts about two hours and thirty minutes. Apart from the well-known Belgian and Dutch airline companies, the Spanish Vueling Airlines (www.vueling.com) have a very attractive offer balancing price and quality. There is a direct and fast metro line from ‘Manises Airport’ to the centre of Valencia.163