Flood Disaster (DANA) October 2024
A tragedy for the entire Valencia Region
On October 29, 2024, the Valencia Region was hit by floods due to exceptionally heavy rain showers and mudslides.
More than 200 people died and hundreds of thousands of people in towns and villages - right next to the city of Valencia - suffered damage to their homes or businesses.
The tragedy has affected us deeply, and we too have put on our boots to help clean up streets, houses and businesses.
We have also donated bicycles and parts for people who no longer have transportation.
Traveling is contributing to recovery
After the bad news spread around the world, tourism also came to a standstill.
Many trips to Valencia have been cancelled or are no longer being booked.
That is the indirect damage of the catastrophe.
Very unfortunate, because the well-known tourist attractions are located 'outside the disaster area'.
As a tourist you will not notice or see anything of the drama.
And our cycle routes also do NOT go through the affected area.
“So just come to Valencia,” even though it feels very uncomfortable to say this.
The disaster will become even greater if economic activity in the entire region collapses.
And I'm not saying that just for my own benefit.
Also on behalf of all local partners and colleagues, the baker on the corner, the owner of a 'casa rural', the taxi driver and the cook who makes such a delicious paella... we are all happy with your arrival!
The city and Region of Valencia remain fantastic places to enjoy nature, culture, gastronomy and Mediterranean atmosphere.
If you travel to Valencia in the near future, you will indirectly contribute to the recovery of the local economy by spending your money in shops, bars, etc.
Besides, SPAINISH will donate €25 from each booking to the Red Cross,
with a minimum amount of €1000
Even if you don't book a trip, you can donate via the Red Cross website :
https://www2.cruzroja.es/colabora
¡Muchas gracias!
Richard van Kruchten, director SPAINISH