Ah Spain!

In this episode, we explore one of Spain’s most magical nights — La Noche de San Juan — as celebrated in the vibrant coastal city of Valencia. Coinciding with the summer solstice, this iconic festival marks the arrival of summer with fire, water, and centuries-old traditions deeply rooted in Spanish culture.

Whether you're an expat living in Spain, planning a visit, or just curious about Valencia travel and local customs, we’ve got you covered. From jumping over bonfires for good luck to taking a midnight dip in the Mediterranean, we share firsthand experiences, cultural insights, and tips on how to celebrate San Juan like a local.

Perfect for travelers, expats, and anyone looking to experience Spain poco a poco — one story at a time.

Today we take you through the real process of preparing our kids for the big move to Spain, and easing the transition once we arrived! From discussing the decision with them and calming their nerves to making sure they were excited about starting life in a new country, we share how we got everyone on board for this family adventure.

Did we visit first? How did we get our friends,  extended family, and even teachers on board to support our kids for the unknown? Tune in as we talk about the ups and downs of getting our little ones (and ourselves!) ready for life in Spain. Plus, hear about how we built a new circle of friends in a foreign place!

Whether you're planning a big move with your own family or just love a good cross-cultural story, this episode is for you!

Flamenco takes center stage in today’s episode. Learn about the origins of flamenco in Andalusia, shaped by Romani, Moorish, Jewish, and Andalusian influences, and how it developed into a deeply expressive art form. A symbol of Spanish identity, flamenco is more than music—it's raw emotion, rhythm, and resistance. We unpack the history, passion, and cultural fusion behind cante (song), toque (guitar), and baile (dance), tracing flamenco’s journey from the margins to the global stage.

Whether you're a lover of Spanish music, fascinated by cultural traditions, or just curious about the sound of Spain’s soul—this one's for you.

In this candid episode we explore the real-life surprises and lessons we've learned since making the move to Spain. From our feline companions (old and new) adjusting to a new life abroad to our own struggles with picking up the language (spoiler: it’s harder than we thought), we’re sharing the things we wish someone had told us before we packed our bags.

We talk about the subtle art of distinguishing yourself as a resident, not a tourist, and why WhatsApp groups are an unexpected lifeline in your new community. We also reflect on the challenges of staying connected with friends and family across time zones, the importance of embracing what’s available locally instead of longing for what you left behind, and yes — the hunt for a decent selection of English books.

Whether you’re considering a move, already here, or just curious about expat life, this episode is full of insights, laughs, and a few “we had no idea” moments.

In this Poco A Poco episode, we’re talking about Valencia’s Turia Garden—once an unpredictable, wandering riverbed, now a lush 9-kilometer park that snakes through the heart of the city. Along the way, you’ll pass playgrounds, bike paths, shady palms, the City of Arts and Sciences, the Palau de la Música, and even a giant Gulliver you can climb on. Discover how a devastating flood led to a bold transformation, and why locals still affectionately call it “the river.” It’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and a little Valencian pride.

Welcome to Poco A Poco. In these bite-sized episodes of Ah... Spain!, we explore fascinating cultural, historical, and everyday insights about Spain—one small piece at a time. Perfect for curious minds and fans of our longer deep-dive episodes on life in Spain, Poco A Poco helps you discover Spain, poco a poco (little by little).

Today we discuss one of the most asked questions for expats and locals alike: Is it better to live in the city of Valencia or in a nearby mountain town like Náquera? Join Gaetano, who lives with his family in the heart of Valencia, and Tania, raising her family in the tranquil mountain town of Náquera, as they compare two very different versions of life in Spain.

From the convenience of city living—walkable neighborhoods, schools, and nightlife—to the peace and beauty of the countryside, with larger homes, private pools, and stunning views, we weigh the pros and cons of each lifestyle.

Whether you're planning a move to Valencia, considering real estate options, or just daydreaming about Spanish life, this episode offers real insights into what it's actually like to live in these two contrasting but beautiful places.

We dive into the bold, flavorful world of Spanish beverages. From the daily rituals of Spanish coffee culture to the party-ready cocktails that define summer in Spain, this episode is a fun, honest, and slightly boozy tour through how Spain really does drinks. We explore the fiery and popular Valencian cremaet, compare café solo, cortado, and other local coffee favorites, and unpack the difference between Tinto de Verano and sangria (spoiler: we have opinions). We also get into Agua de Valencia—a sparkling citrus cocktail that’s as strong as it is celebratory—and laugh over the surprising bebidas we've encountered since moving here. Whether you're planning a trip, living the expat life, or just dreaming of sipping something cold under the Spanish sun, this episode offers a flavorful look at how drinks reflect the heart of Spanish culture, especially here in Valencia.