May 23, 2019 - Rachel Boler


Today, we were able to have class outside as we walked and learned about water in Mediterranean landscapes. The irrigation systems in Mediterranean areas are so special because they integrate tricks passed down from thousands of years ago. They are totally human made, meaning that no equipment or pipes are necessary. We saw a small portion of farm land where pumpkins were being grown and saw how the plants are watered using traditional systems. The plants grow in parallel lines, with a shallow ditch in between each row. When the small dams are released, which hold the water supply back, the ditches will fill with water without touching the plants. Farmers created this design because the fungi in water would kill the plants. We also learned that only two crops are native to Spain including olives, and carob, which is a type of legume.
Walking along an irrigation ditch.

 After a lot of walking and working up an appetite, we sat down for lunch. The restaurant that we went to was a pizza and pasta place and was personally my favorite thus far. I had a bowl of gnocchi with a big mozzarella ball on top, and it was delicious! I was also able to try a drink that is traditional in the city called, “Agua de Valencia,” and it was almost as good as the food. After lunch we had a treat in store—learning classic flamenco!
Gnocchi for lunch.

At the dancing hall, we were taught two dances: flamenco and rumba. I was super excited for this because I love to dance. People who know these dances well make it look much easier than they truly are. Everything was going well when it was just foot movement, but the class was derailed when we incorporated the arms. Jokes aside, I believe the whole group had a great time dancing, and everyone gave it their best effort! This style of dance is one that I really enjoyed and would like to possibly learn more when I return home.
Our group lining up to dance.

 After dancing, some of us headed to the plaza to do a little shopping. There is a store here called “Primark” that is not in the States yet. The clothes are very cheap, and they have a huge variety. Many of us have fallen in love with this store and have taken multiple trips. In our last couple of days we might plan one more trip to Primark, but more-so, we plan to soak up every bit we can of the city and enjoy each other’s company.
 

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