Looking for an exchange in Ireland for 2016

Massarrojos is a small village (2000 inhabitants), some 8 km from the centre of Valencia city. The village has a nice character with traditional village houses, bakeries and a 'casino' (Spanish bar/restaurant). The town was founded in 1289 (it´s name betrays its Moorish origin), and for a time belonged to the knights templar. Massarrojos is situated on the edge of the 'huerta' ( http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huerta_de_Valencia ) a patchwork of small fields using irrigation canals laid out by the Moors. The huerta is mainly made up of orange groves, and a beautiful spot to walk or ride the bicycle.

Massarrojos has the advantages of a village (easy pace of life and tranquility), yet is in close proximity to Valencia city. It bursts into life during the festivals (held throughout the summer). I particularly like ´Toros Embolados´, which is a running of the bulls through the village streets, that normally takes place over various weekends in June and July.

Our house is literally 2 minutes walk from the metro station, so in 25 minutes you can be in the centre of the city. Valencia has been radically transformed in the last ten years, with the construction of the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ciutat_de_les_Arts_i_les_Ci%C3%A8ncies ), a new Opera house, a stunning aquarium, and the regeneration of the old city. There is a lively night life (throngs of people in Calle Caballeros at 3am), and as one would expect of a city who gave the world paella, a dazzling selection of restaurants.

2007 saw Valencia host the America's cup which saw the construction of a new marina, and also hosts Formula 1 street circuit in early summer. Nearby are miles of golden sand beaches, while to the south the Albufera is a birdwatchers delight.