Welcome to the GALA 2024 Valencia Starter Kit, your ultimate guide to making the most of your experience at the upcoming GALA conference in Valencia! As we prepare for our time onsite, our hope is to ensure that your time in this vibrant Spanish city is unforgettable. Whether you're a seasoned conference attendee or a first-timer, this blog is packed with essential tips, recommendations, and insider insights to help you navigate everything from travel arrangements to local cuisine, networking opportunities, and must-see attractions. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture of Valencia while connecting with industry peers and gaining invaluable knowledge to advance in your professional ventures. Let's dive in and start planning for an extraordinary GALA 2024 experience in Valencia! Upon your arrival at Valencia Airport, reaching the city center is convenient via bus, subway, or taxi. The subway journey takes approximately 40 minutes. You'll need to board Line 5 towards Angel Guimerà, making 10 stops before transferring to Line 1 for an additional three stops. Your destination stop, "Beniferri," is a mere 500 meters from the Melià. Opting for a taxi, the trip should last about 15 minutes and will cost approximately €20. You will find all the information at the Spanish Airport Authority official website. If you're arriving in Madrid, your best choice is to proceed to Madrid Puerta de Atocha and board a high-speed train, which will take you to Valencia in just under two hours. For those landing in Barcelona, the preferred route involves catching the Euromed train from Estació de Sants directly to Valencia's Joaquín Sorolla station. This journey takes approximately 3 hours. In April, Valencia typically experiences average daytime temperatures ranging from 12°C (53°F) to 20°C (68°F). Nights can still be cool, but the days are generally warm with an increasing amount of sunshine as the month progresses. Rainfall during April is relatively low, but occasional showers can occur, so it's wise to have an umbrella or a light raincoat handy. It’s also wise to bring sunscreen as having a paella in the sun or enjoying a couple of hours on the beach can be really tempting! We recommend business casual attire for the conference itself. While a jacket may be nice, a full suit is not necessary. Professional, yet comfortable is the key. Conference venues are notoriously difficult to "get right" in terms of temperature. Between everyone's individual preferences, the flow of bodies, and the space itself, you may find sessions to either be too cold or too warm for your comfort. We highly recommend bringing a sweater or jacket each day. Attendees often like to change outfits between the core conference and social/networking events. The GALA Dinner is often considered the most formal event, but don’t fret, there is no need to break out the tux and ballgowns. Other events may follow the business casual theme, or take a slightly more causal tone. If attending the pre- or post- conference tours, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and again, come prepared with layers! Valencian cuisine is a tantalizing blend of Mediterranean flavors, rich history, and diverse influences. Renowned for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, Valencian cuisine is deeply rooted in its coastal location, with seafood playing a prominent role in many dishes. Valencia's culinary landscape also boasts delectable tapas, succulent oranges, and indulgent sweets, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts. Paella Valenciana: The most iconic dish of Valencia, Paella Valenciana is a must-try. Unlike its seafood counterparts, the original recipe features chicken, rabbit, green beans, broad white beans and occasionally sometimes snails, all cooked in a large, shallow pan over an open flame. It's flavored with saffron and rosemary, giving it a distinctive taste and color. Should you find yourself wondering about the absence of chorizo, it's essential to understand that authentic paella never includes chorizo, ham, beef. This is an indisputable aspect of the dish's traditional recipe. Paella developed as a “hunter’s dish” from the days locals hunted in the southern lake “Albufera” - with no chicken but duck originally. Horchata de Chufa: A refreshing drink perfect for the warm Valencian climate, horchata is made from tigernuts, water, and sugar. It's typically served cold and is often accompanied by “fartons”, long, sweet pastries perfect for dipping into the drink. Agua de Valencia: Despite its name, Agua de Valencia is not locally sourced water, but a cocktail made from a mix of fresh orange juice, cava (Spanish sparkling wine), Cointreau or vodka, and gin or rum depending of house “secret formula”. It's a popular local drink, especially in social gatherings and celebrations and highly advertised in old-fashioned bars and restaurants in the old town (El Carme, etc) Arroz al Horno: Another rice dish that showcases the versatility of Valencian rice. It includes ingredients like pork ribs, sausage, tomato, potatoes, and garbanzo beans, baked in a clay pot with rice. It's hearty and deeply flavorful. Fideuà: Similar to paella but with short noodles instead of rice. Fideuà is typically made with seafood and is cooked in a paella pan. It's a savory dish that originated in the coastal regions of Valencia. Esgarraet: A simple yet flavorful appetizer made of roasted red peppers and bacalao (salted cod), marinated in olive oil and garlic. It's often served with fresh bread. Allioli: A garlic and olive oil emulsion that accompanies many Valencian dishes. It's similar to mayonnaise but with a strong garlic flavor, perfect for adding zest to meats, seafood, and vegetables. GALA offers several conference tours and excursions that may be added on to your conference registration for a fee and cover many of the most popular sights including the City of Arts and Sciences complex, Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia (Reina Sofia Palace of the Arts), Museo Fallero de València (The Fallas Museum), Old Town Valencia, Estació del Nord (Valencia Nord Station), Palatial Ayuntamiento (City Hall), Mercado Central (Central Market), La Lonja de la Seda (Silk Exchange), Marqués de Dos Aguas Palace (National Ceramic Museum), L'Albufera/El Palmar, and more. However, if you’re looking to take in even more of the city, here are a few lesser-known stops that you might consider adding to your itinerary. But first, a bit of history about the city... Valencia was founded in year 138 BC and as you can guess by the name, it was “the home of the brave” (the valiants, that is, veteran Roman soldiers who had served the Republic. Ruins by the riverbed prove that Haníbal built a small fort in what is now Valencia before attacking Sagunto (north of Valencia), starting the Punic War and crossing the Alps with his elephants. You can visit the original Roman level, with its “cardus” and “decumanus maximus” (the crossed streets) and parts of the town at L’Almoina. The city underwent Roman, Visigoth and Muslim rule until it was briefly taken by El Cid. King Jaume I reconquered it in 1238 and created a “new, free kingdom”, with settlers coming mostly from the western part of Catalonia, Aragon and other parts of Europe (francés, anglès, alemany are not uncommon surnames in the area). Visit the monumental Torre de Serranos by the riverbed and Torres de Quart (the original gate) from those times. The holes you can see in the Torres de Quart come from Napoleonic troops bombarding the city in the early 1800’s. Vall d’Uixó - Coves de Sant Josep [Caves of San Jose]: Located at about one hour by train from Valencia’s station, Estaciò del Nord, Coves de Sant Josep holds the longest navigable underground river in Europe. Enter the depths of the Sierra de Espadán and discover unique prehistoric paintings and engravings. This underground landscape’s visit lasts around 45 minutes and includes a section by boat of 800 meters and a walk of 250 meters with a constant temperature of 20ºC. Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir [Church of San Nicolás]: Perhaps Valencia’s best secret in town is its “Sixtine Chapel.” At least equally impressive as it’s Vatican City counterpart, is certainly worth a visit outside conference hours or in the morning. The interior of the church was completed between 1690-1693, and was decorated by Juan Pérez Castiel in baroque fashion. It has frescoes, depicting the lives of San Nicola and Peter of Verona, along with virtues and allegories, designed by Antonio Palomino and completed by Dionis Vidal. The chapel altarpieces include works by Juan de Juanes, Fernando Yáñez de la Almedina, Jerónimo Jacinto de Espinosa, and José Vergara Gimeno. Palau Alameda – Fly me to the moon - Palau Alameda is a beautiful and vibrant rooftop restaurant and rooftop bar.It may not look too engaging from the outside. However, the inside is breathtaking. Enjoy more than 2,000 square meters of gastronomy, culture and leisure spread over three different spaces: the club Azza, the event space La Sala, and the rooftop “ ÀTIC”. Modern, colorful and blossomy. Immerse yourself in an urban oasis with stunning views over the Alameda and the old riverbed of Túria river. From lunch, dinner to some delicious drinks at DJ party nights, Palau Alameda is one of the hotspots in Valencia. ÀTIC gets started around 4 - 5 PM and stays open well passed midnight at week-ends. Definitely a place to go! Valencia Tourist Card If you're in Valencia for one, two or three days, you may want to get the Valencia Tourist Card. It's a physical card you can use to travel around the city by public transport and get into museums and some monuments for free. It also entitles you to special discounts on numerous attractions, tours, stores and restaurants. What’s included? FREE transport on city buses, underground, tram, commuter trains and intercity buses (MetroBus) in zones AB. It also includes trips to/from the airport on underground lines L3 and L5. FREE admission to municipal museums and monuments such as the Silk Exchange, the Serranos and Quart towers and other landmarks. Special DISCOUNTS on the city's main tourist attractions, including the City of Arts and Sciences, Oceanogràfic, Tourist Bus, Marqués de dos Aguas Palace, and on tourist services, guided tours. 2 tapas and 2 FREE drinks. We know many of you are visiting Valencia by way of other major Spanish cities. Making your way through Madrid or Barcelona? Here are a few bits information for both. On your way to (or from) Valencia… Madrid! If you have a stopover in Madrid on your way to the conference or flying back home, don’t miss this opportunity to visit the capital of Spain. Madrid pulsates with life, captivating visitors with its majestic architecture, world-class art, and fiery passion for life. Here, every corner tells a story, from the grandeur of the Royal Palace to the bustling markets of El Rastro, echoing centuries of Spanish heritage and innovation. The high-speed trains to and from Valencia (AVE) arrive and depart from Atocha Railway Station, which is located at walking distance from three of Madrid’s most important museums: El Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen-Bornemisza. Lower-priced alternatives started operating between the capital and Valencia some years ago. In Madrid's Atocha area, there are several notable attractions and points of interest worth exploring during your stopover. Begin your journey at the iconic Puerta de Atocha [Atocha Railway Station] - Atocha Station is known for its stunning architecture and bustling atmosphere. Inside the station, don't miss the tropical garden conservatory, a serene oasis filled with lush greenery, ponds, and even turtles, providing a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía [Reina Sofía Museum] - One of Madrid's premier contemporary art museums lies adjacent to Atocha Station. Housing an impressive collection of 20th-century Spanish art, including masterpieces by Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso, the museum offers a captivating journey through Spain's artistic evolution. Be sure to spend some time admiring Picasso's famous painting, Guernica, a powerful depiction of the Spanish Civil War. Parque del Retiro [Retiro Park] - For a dose of nature and relaxation, head to one of Madrid's largest and most beautiful green spaces. Here, you can wander through landscaped gardens, row a boat on the lake, or simply relax under the shade of a tree. With its numerous fountains, sculptures, and picturesque pathways, Retiro Park offers the perfect escape from the urban hustle, allowing you to recharge and rejuvenate before continuing your exploration of Madrid's Atocha area. For a taste of Madrid's culinary scene, venture into the lively neighborhood surrounding Atocha. Here, you'll find an array of traditional taverns, trendy cafes, and local eateries serving up authentic cuisine from all of Spain’s regions. Whether you're craving classic tapas, savory paella, or innovative fusion dishes, you're sure to find something to satisfy your palate in this vibrant culinary hub. Another option is visiting the picturesque neighborhoods of Tirso de Molina and Lavapiés, known for their eclectic atmosphere and diverse cultural scene. Wander through narrow streets adorned with colorful street art, and discover hidden gems such as quirky art galleries, cozy cafes, and vibrant markets (don’t miss “El Rastro” on Sunday mornings!). Stop to sample some traditional Spanish tapas at one of the local taverns or indulge in international cuisine at one of the many multicultural eateries in the area. ¡Bienvenidos a Madrid! Barcelona If you were thinking of visiting Barcelona before or after the conference, these are some of our suggestions for you to fully enjoy the jewel of the Mediterranean. La Sagrada Familia - Gaudi’s monumental masterpiece is finally in its latest stages before completion with a projected completion date around 2030. The Sagrada Família is a one-of-a-kind temple, for its origins, foundation and purpose. Fruit of the work of genius architect Antoni Gaudí, the project was promoted by the people for the people. Five generations now have watched the Temple progress in Barcelona. Today, more than 140 years after the laying of the cornerstone, construction continues on the Basilica. Tip: Ensure you reserve your tickets well in advance to explore the interior of the basilica, where you'll be captivated by the breathtaking play of natural light and colors. Allow 1-2 hours to visit it. Casa Batlló [The House of Bones] - In the heart of the Passeig de Gràcia, one of the most beautiful streets in the world, and right across Casa Milà, or as people from Barcelona call it, La Pedrera, lies the Casa Batlló, a magical house and another Gaudí masterpiece. Tip: Get your tickets in advance to visit this UNESCO World Heritage site. Duration of the visit: 1h 30 mins. Bonus tip: From April 21 to 23 the whole building will be dressed in roses to celebrate Sant Jordi Barri Gòtic [Gothic Quarter] - The Gothic Quarter is the historic centre of the old city of Barcelona. It stretches from Las Ramblas to Via Laietana, and from the Mediterranean seafront to the Ronda de Sant Pere. The quarter encompasses the oldest parts of the city of Barcelona, and includes the remains of the city's Roman wall and several notable medieval landmarks. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and discover small plazas with quaint bars and restaurants. Don’t forget to visit the Cathedral, the Ajuntament (Town Hall) and the Palau de la Generalitat (The Autonomic Government Building) are opposite each other at the Plaça Sant Jaume, take a walk to Plaça Reial or Plaça del Pi and enjoy the old Barcelona from medieval times. Tip: Don’t be just like any other tourist and avoid Las Ramblas to have lunch or even a drink. Those are tourist traps. Go and explore the little streets and find a spot you like. There are so many! Casa Milà (La Pedrera) - Popularly known as La Pedrera ("the stone quarry") in reference to its unconventional rough-hewn appearance, is a Modernista building and the last private residence designed by architect Antoni Gaudí and was built between 1906 and 1912. In 1984, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. At the time, it was controversial because of its undulating stone facade, twisting wrought iron balconies, and design by Josep Maria Jujol. Several structural innovations include a self-supporting stone façade, a free-plan floor, an underground garage and the spectacular terrace on the roof. El Born - The lower section of the La Ribera district, just below Carrer de la Princesa, and leading to Barceloneta is referred to as El Born after the 19th century market on carrer del Comerç that dominates the area. This is one of the trendiest and most touristic districts in the old city. It is a popular place for tourists and contains many art boutiques, bars and cafés. Many of the buildings date from late Medieval times. It was a well-to-do quarter during 13th–15th centuries, when it really was by the sea shore, and the area that today is named Barceloneta was still an island. Notable buildings are the Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar, which was financed and built by the people of Barcelona, and the palaces along Carrer de Montcada. The former market hall Mercat del Born covers archaeological ruins which were part of the La Ribera district that was demolished after the Siege of Barcelona (1713–14) and the defeat of Catalonia in the War of Succession. Another place of interest is the Fossar de les Moreres, the site of a mass grave of Catalan soldiers fallen during the siege of 1714. Tip: Take a walk through its narrow streets and discover the trendy shops, bars and restaurants that make this quarter one of the coolest places in Barcelona. Pro tip: According to The World’s 50 Best, Barcelona boasts the best bar in the world and the second-best restaurant in the world (first in Europe). Just saying!