Questions & Answers

Eleanor wraps up her school year in Seattle in June 2024, after which we will be gearing up for our big move. With Eleanor's graduation marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, we're filled with a mix of nostalgia for the memories we've made in Seattle and anticipation for the experiences that await us in Valencia. From scenic strolls along the Mediterranean coast to immersing ourselves in the rich culture and history of the city, we're excited to embark on this journey together as a family.

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In the fall of 2023, at the suggestion of our dear friend Alexis, who is also embarking on this relocation journey as well, our family decided to explore Valencia, Spain, in search of a city that felt like home.

Our time in Valencia was truly enchanting, as we uncovered a city that not only holds the distinction of being the third largest in Spain but also resonated deeply with our family's desires and dreams.

Valencia's reputation for safety, walkability, and friendliness struck a chord with us, offering a comforting sense of security as we contemplated making it our new home. What's more, encountering a vibrant expatriate community from all corners of the globe reinforced our belief in Valencia's inclusivity and potential for forging meaningful connections.

We were captivated by the city's stunning architecture, lively festivals, and idyllic beaches. From leisurely strolls through the historic old town to marveling at iconic landmarks like the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia promised endless opportunities for exploration and cultural immersion.

The city is really geared towards building and fostering relationships. You can spend hours together eating outdoors at a restaurant, hanging out at the Turia park (which is a 16 kilometer park - formerly a river - that snakes through the length of the city,) or relax together on the miles of beaches. Oh, and the 300 days of sun also add a lot to the good vibes that the city emanates.

More than anything, the people were just marvelous. Strangers would stop us on the street, offering to help if we looked a little lost (which definitely happened from time to time) or to say some kind words to Eleanor. They were the true highlight.

And let's not forget the irresistible appeal of indulging in Valencia's famed cuisine. It's the birthplace of paella (yum!) and a culinary hotbed. As of this writing, there are 36(!) Michelin-rated restaurants in the city. But it's not just the fancy-schmancy food: the everyday restaurants are exceptional. For instance, we asked a couple of young expat kids what they missed most when they had to leave Spain for a trip. Their answer? The food. And we can attest to that. One of our favorite examples: we enjoyed a 5-course meal - with a drink no less - for €15 a person. Wild. And Valencia is also home to the largest indoor market - think Pike Place on steroids - anywhere in Europe.

In the end, our experience in Valencia left an indelible mark on our hearts, filling us with a profound sense of belonging and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. With its warm embrace and diverse offerings, Valencia has truly won us over as the perfect destination for our family's next chapter.

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In the fall of 2024, Eleanor will embark on an incredible educational journey at the British School of Valencia (BSV). Joining Year 1, also known as First Grade, Eleanor will have the opportunity to learn and thrive in a nurturing, safe, and supportive environment.

As parents, we recognize that this transition marks a significant milestone for Eleanor, perhaps her most significant yet. We are immensely proud of her bravery and resilience as she embraces this new chapter in her life. We are excited about the doors that this opportunity will open for her and are confident in her ability to flourish at BSV.

Located in the heart of Valencia, BSV provides a convenient and enriching learning environment for Eleanor. Our family plans to walk or bike to school each day, allowing Eleanor to fully immerse herself in the vibrant surroundings of the city.

While Eleanor's education will primarily continue in English (but Spanish reigns on the playground,) BSV's status as an international school ensures that she will have the opportunity to interact and learn alongside children from diverse cultural backgrounds, both locally and from around the world. This exposure to different perspectives and experiences will undoubtedly enrich Eleanor's educational journey and contribute to her growth as a global citizen.

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As we prepare for our move to Valencia, there's one thing we want to make clear: we're not saying goodbye, but rather, "see you later." Our friends and loved ones have played an integral role in our lives in Seattle, and as we embark on this new adventure, we want to express our gratitude and appreciation for the memories we've shared together.

To celebrate the special bonds we've formed over the years, we'll be hosting several "See You Later" parties in the coming months. These gatherings will serve as an opportunity to reminisce, laugh, and create lasting memories before we set off on our journey to Valencia.

Whether it's a casual backyard barbecue, a cozy dinner party, or a lively get-together at our favorite local spot, we're excited to spend quality time with each and every one of you before we depart. We'll be sure to keep you updated as we finalize the details and put together our farewell festivities.

So, stay tuned for more information, and get ready to join us for some heartfelt farewells and fond farewells as we bid adieu to Seattle and prepare to embark on the next chapter of our lives. We can't wait to share these special moments with you all before we set off on our new adventure in Valencia.

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We have made the decision to make beautiful Valencia our home for the next two years at least - but we'll be coming back periodically, and definitely at the 2-year mark.

We have a special place in our hearts for Seattle, where our cherished friends and beloved family (um, that's you!) reside. If you're able, please come visit us!

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As we prepare for our move to Valencia, we're taking a minimalist approach to packing and bringing only the essentials with us. Embracing the opportunity to declutter and start afresh, we've made the decision to leave behind the majority of our belongings, opting to shed what isn't needed and simplify our lives as we begin this new chapter.

Our condo in Seattle, where we've made countless memories over the years, will be left furnished to accommodate the needs of our renters. It's a bittersweet farewell to our home, but we're excited about the prospect of sharing its warmth and comfort with others while we embark on our own adventure abroad.

While the process of parting with our belongings may be daunting at times (does it spark joy?! lol,) we're filled with a sense of liberation and excitement for the possibilities that lie ahead. With each item we leave behind, we're making space for new experiences, new connections, and new memories in our adopted city.

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Nope! One of the most appealing aspects of our upcoming move to Valencia is the prospect of embracing a car-less lifestyle. Valencia is renowned for its flat terrain and comprehensive transportation network, making it one of the most walkable, bikeable, and public transit-friendly cities in Europe. Time to get our steps in!

Oh - and it's one of the most environmentally-friendly cities in Europe. Very cool.

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