Sayèn Nijman's Valencia List

I am delighted to have discovered the underrated Spanish gem that is Valencia, by way of this conversation with graphic designer Sayèn Nijman who has moved there. 

HELLO FROM…

Hello from Valencia! Our little family moved here about eight months ago. The initial plan was to stay for a year, but we fell in love with the city and extended our stay for another year. The Turia park is one of the most beautiful parks we’ve ever came across. Because of the park, the city is one of the most bicycle & family friendly cities we know. And as real Dutch people, we even took our bike with us haha. 

WE ARE...

We are Sayèn (that's me), Javier and 4-year-old Kobi. I am a freelance graphic designer. I studied Art History in Amsterdam and always had a real love for Fashion, Art & Design.

Javier and I both come from mixed race families and are very rich in the diversity our cultural backgrounds have given us. I always felt that a big benefit of growing up with influences of multiple cultures is that you have a much bigger pool to ‘pick & choose’ from and how to shape your own life as you please. And it has given us an endless pool of conversations about race, identity, culture, creativity, experience and expression. 

We both also enjoy aesthetically designed architectural spaces that feel minimal & serene. Probably because we have such dynamic work & personal lives. And we also really appreciate being surrounded by creative, authentic and interesting people that follow their own paths. We like meeting new people and hearing about their stories & lives. This is the second time we moved abroad. Before Kobi, we lived in the Caribbean for 3 years and experienced a very different life than what we were used to in the Netherlands. You really get to appreciate the things you took for granted and it expands your view of what’s ‘normal’. It has also given us a very international and diverse social circle that we greatly value.

MY PERFECT DAY WITH MY SON...

The very first thing you must do when visiting Valencia, is check the website of Casa Axis, the creative studio of Felipe Pantone. It’s usually not open to the public, but sometimes there are exhibitions or events that are free to enter. In that case, make sure to visit because it’s one of the most inspiring places I’ve ever been! 

In the morning, when it not too hot yet, I would go for a walk to Parc Gulliver in the Turia. A walk in the Turia is already a great start of your day, but if you have kids that are a bit older or very good at climbing, they will love Parc Gulliver. For the little ones, there is also a big playground called Parque infantil (Tramo XII), right next to Gulliver.

After that, I would take a 30 min wander to the Mercat Central de Valencia and instead of a proper lunch, just try lots of different snacks, fruits, Montaditos and of course some Jamon Iberico!

In the afternoon I would proceed to the IVAM, Valencia’s Modern Art Institute, which always has the best contemporary art exhibitions. On Wednesday afternoons and Sundays it’s even free admission. But also their core collection is amazing. The second floor even has an area for small children to experience art in an interactive way and a soft room for babies. 

The perfect way to end this day is to have an early dinner on the terrace at Gina Melenas. This is a real hidden gem! It’s one of the few places we know where you can actually eat something before 19:30h in Valencia. They serve the most amazing little pizzetta’s and their concept is that the toppings are a surprise. Their terrace is perfectly located right next to a big playground, close enough for your kids to play by themselves while you enjoy some good food & drinks. 

IF IT'S RAINING I'D GO TO...

The Bonaire shopping centre. It’s a 30 min drive from Valencia city but it has a big range of stores, restaurants, a cinema and a small arcade where you can go bowling. So lots of entertainment around, for every age. Next to the shopping centre there’s also a big trampoline park called Jumping Yard, which our energetic son loves! If you like to stay in Valencia city, Centro Commercial Saler is also a good, convenient option.

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD I'D TELL A FRIEND TO STAY IN...

I’m probably a bit bias, but my favourite neighbourhood is the one we live in: El Botanic, which is part of Extramurs. It’s located between the Turia parc and the old city centre. You can visit the botanical gardens, stroll down the incredibly beautiful & diverse Turia parc, visit the contemporary art museums  IVAM and the CCCC. 

MY FAVOURITE NEIGHBOURHOOD TO WANDER IN...

One of the best neighbourhoods to stroll in is Ruzafa. It has so many cute shops, coffee places, vintage fashion boutiques and there are good restaurants on every corner. The streets in Ruzafa are quite narrow and flat, so very convenient, even for small children or strollers. It’s known as the most creative neighbourhood of Valencia, combining historical architecture with modern city life. 

MY FAVOURITE PLACES TO EAT...If you have the luxury of going on a date night, La Salita de Begoña Rodrigo is a great, high-end restaurant that offers an amazing experience. But we also really like Begin Restaurant, and their varied menu is perfect for kids too. 

For breakfasts I'd go to Offline, and I love Pasaje 94 for design exhibitions and specialty coffee. 

MY FAVOURITE PLACES TO EXPLORE...

Valencia has a few different beaches, located next to each other: Las Arenas, Malvarossa and Patacona. Patacona is our personal favourite. However, El Trompo in Malvarossa has really good paëlla and is located right on the beach, which is great for kids. If you have the possibility, Port Saplaya is also definitely worth a visit. It’s the cutest little harbour and almost feels like a different country.

SOMETHING NOT MANY PEOPLE KNOW...

In Jardins del Real there’s the cutest kids skate park called Parque Vial de Viveros, completely free to enter. Don’t forget to bring their bike or scooter.

Avoid visiting Valencia in March during Las Fallas if you don’t like fireworks!

Valencia hosts the biggest (and most beautiful) Zoo’s in Europe called Bioparc Valencia.

A GOOD DAY TRIP FROM VALENCIA IS...

On about 1.5h drive from Valencia, in Montanejos, you will find the most amazing thermal waters called Fuente de los Baños. It is easily accessible, even with small children, and the views are fantastic. 

Thank you Sayèn!