FACTS IN VALENCIA

One fact concerning Valencia is that the city centre can become very crowded. Depending upon the day of the week or the time of day, tourists flock to this once best kept secret location.

The season also makes a big difference, as do major events such as the Fallas. Beyond the visitors, some 830,000 people live in Spain’s third largest city after Madrid and Barcelona.

The daytime population of the city increases a little during the week with a daily influx of commuters arriving by train or car from outlying towns and villages. Trade fairs and congresses also attract professionals from across the country and overseas.

The city’s universities also play a role in local demographics. Higher educational institutions attract students from near and far, especially EU member states through the Erasmus programme.

Some 350,000 cars are registered in Valencia with both locals and commuters contributing to busy thoroughfares at times. Emergency services in the city are highly efficient and respond quickly to incidents requiring medical attention.

Valencia is a dynamic economic centre and is focussing on various innovative commercial areas such as climate change and sustainability. A notable, local entrepreneurial spirit has already resulted in a number of successful startups.

Beyond it’s famous oranges and other citrus exports, the automotive industry plays a highly important economic role. Valencia is also developing into a major telecommunications centre.

Expats are also blessed by Valencia’s characteristics. One of the world’s healthier locations benefits from a low ecological footprint, over 7 hours of sun each day, average daytime temperatures of almost 23º and air purified by the sea and the city’s expansive foliage. 

Improved wellbeing and a long life expectancy are the result. Presumably happiness or contentment too. That said, 40º are not unheard of, nor snow reaching close to the outskirts of the city. Seasonal humidity and downpours also belong to the mix. As well as locals wearing wellington boots.