Hola!

Nice to meet you. We are May and Stephanie, we fell in love with Valencia in 2018. Our friendship started here and so did our new Spanish lives.

Throughout the years, we’ve met many lovely people, seen great places, and created a big network. What started as a list of insider tips for our friends, turned out to be great blog material... that's how Friends of Valencia was born: a handy city guide for friends, visitors, tourists, locals, exchange students, and expats – everyone has to feel welcome.

We want to spark your inspiration, keep you informed, and help you enjoy the city to the fullest.

Big hug,

May & Stephanie

Who are we?

May Meppe

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Hi! I’m May, a while I ago I decided to create Friends of Valencia as a fun hobby. I'm an Online Business Manager (www.maymeppe.com) for several clients and I teach others how to work online. I’m a dog mom of Mali and I live with my boyfriend in Monte-Olivete. In my free time, I love walking around the streets of Valencia. My favorite moment is in the spring when the city smells like fresh orange blossoms (Azahar) because of all of its orange trees. I love Horchata. Paella. Learning Spanish, listening to people’s stories and discovering new places in the city. I’m the organizer behind Friends of Valencia. I like to think that my special power is bringing things/people together. That’s why you will see less of me on the blogs, but behind the scenes, I’m here. I hope you enjoy our website. Big hug, May

Stephanie Wiendels

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Hi! I’m Stephanie, a creative enthusiast, English teacher for kids, freelance copywriter, and Friends of Valencia's content editor. My intuition brought me here (thanks, gal, appreciate it). Moving to Valencia has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made – this city never ceases to amaze me. I love sharing my enthusiasm, creating genuine connections, telling stories, and being of service. That’s why you’ll find me writing blog posts full of tips, tricks, recommendations, and bad puns. When I just moved here, I set up my own Early Childhood Music & Movement classes: Sing & Swing with Stephanie. Yes, I have many interests and passions – every day is different and I love it. What I adore about Valencia? The people, street art, fascinating architecture, the climate, gorgeous parks, tasty food, the typical Spanish lifestyle, colorful houses, the little surprises around each corner, the beach, street parties, and vibrant city life. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do! Un abrazo, Stephanie