My Decades-long Love Affair with Spain!

Tio Pepe, Puerto del Sol, Madrid

Years ago, I moved to Madrid, sight unseen, feeling an inexplicable draw to a country,  that despite my childhood growing up in Europe, had alluded me. Madrid felt like home the second I stepped onto Spanish soil, and so began my decades-long love affair with Spain.

Spain is one of the places I can go to repeatedly and never run out of things to do. From beaches to modern cities to quaint villages, Spain’s allure is a never-ending magnet that fully meets all my wanderlust ambitions! 

I love to create itineraries that draw from firsthand experiences and journeys that immerse you in the heartbeat of Spanish life – wandering through the narrow alleys of the Albaicín in Granada or savoring paella at a tucked-away Valencia gem! Each day unfolds like a chapter in an authentic Spanish story. 

The last time I went to Spain, getting on that plane and coming home was harder! I flew into Madrid and visited all my favorite stops. The flea market in Puerto Toledo (steps from my old apartment!); shopping in Salamanaca; beer, chips & people watching in Chueca; roasted chicken and handcrafted cider at Casa Mingo (an iconic restaurant, since 1888!); sipped sangria in Plaza Mayo; scarfed down churros post-bar hopping at Chocolateria San Ginés; and went to see Guernica (I go every visit). 

Must-dos for your first time in Madrid: Go see Picasso’s Guernica at Museo Reine Sofia (I know I just mentioned it but it’s a profound experience you have to see it in person) & Goya, Caravaggio & Velázquez at The Prado Museum. Visit the Royal Palace. Rent a paddle boat in Retiro Park! 

Barcelona is the wild child of the Spanish family! Beach vibes, Gaudi's whimsical creations, and a nightlife that makes you forget what sleep is – it's a whole different world! I stayed at El Palace Hotel Barcelona a gorgeous hotel in the L’Eixample neighborhood, a great neighborhood near (or a short metro ride) everywhere.  

I am obsessed with Joan Miro off I set to the Joan Miro Foundation. You can wander around Plaça de Catalunya, with all the shops, charming cafes and delicious restaurants.  And Gaudi galore – Sagrada Familia, Park Güell – his whimsical world blew my mind. Got lost in the Gothic Quarter, tapas-hopping like a local, and ended up at a flamenco joint that will set your soul on fire. 

I followed up Barcelona with a chill weekend in Cadaqués– it's like stepping into a Salvador Dalí painting! With its white houses, Old Town, and beautiful beaches, it’s one of the loveliest places on the Costa Brava for a quiet getaway. We coasted down to Valencia, where the paella game is strong, and the city draws you in with its old-world charm. Walking the Mercado Central is a sensory fiesta of fresh produce (hello, Valencia orange!), spices and fresh seafood. 

And of course, we spent a few days wine-tasting in Rioja ALavesa. The wine is amazing and the generous hospitality is off the chart! Speaking of wine...we visited Bodegas Faustino and Haro, La Rioja, home of the annual Haro Wine Festival! 

I could go on and on because there are so many great places to visit in Spain. A tour of Andalusia (Córdoba, Málaga, Granada & Seville, and the beautiful beaches on the Costa del Sol). Bilbao (the Guggenheim!), Mallorca.  Take your pick for more sun and ocean in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Marbella.

Ok, you get it! Spain is pure magic! Every region narrates a story of tradition. Sun-soaked beaches, bustling markets, delicious wine and food, and amazing people at every stop  

So, when do you want to go to Spain?!

Hit me up, and let’s talk! Let’s plan an immersive trip where you won’t just feel the blissful spirit of Spain but live it!