Etiqueta: spain

Travel AdvisorBy admin

San Sebastian Gastronomy: 5 Essential Restaurant Proposals in the Basque Country

Basque cuisine is defined by one core principle: respect for the product. Rather than complex techniques or heavy sauces, Basque chefs focus on enhancing the natural flavor of each ingredient. This philosophy, rooted in fishing villages and rural traditions, has evolved into one of the most sophisticated culinary cultures in the world.

Key Products of Basque Cuisine

Some of the most iconic ingredients include:

  • Fresh Atlantic seafood (turbot, hake, anchovies)

  • Premium beef and txuleta (Basque-style rib steak)

  • Seasonal vegetables such as peppers, beans, and artichokes

  • High-quality olive oil and local cheeses

  • Cider (sidra) and Txakoli wine

This strong connection to land and sea is what allows San Sebastian to host more Michelin stars per square mile than almost any other city on earth.

1. Arzak

A global icon of modern Basque cuisine, Arzak is a family-run restaurant that has shaped Spain’s culinary identity for decades. Holding three Michelin stars, it represents the perfect balance between tradition and innovation.

The tasting menus reinterpret classic Basque flavors through contemporary techniques, always grounded in exceptional ingredients. Service is refined yet warm, making the experience both intellectual and emotional. For many travelers, dining at Arzak is a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic highlight.

2. Akelarre

Perched above the Bay of Biscay, Akelarre offers one of the most dramatic dining settings in Spain. Awarded three Michelin stars, the restaurant combines avant-garde cuisine with breathtaking ocean views.

Chef Pedro Subijana’s menus focus on creativity, texture, and balance, while maintaining a clear connection to Basque culinary roots. Akelarre is ideal for travelers seeking haute cuisine paired with a sense of place—a full sensory experience that goes beyond the plate.

3. Martín Berasategui

Located just outside San Sebastian, this legendary restaurant is widely regarded as one of the finest in Europe. With three Michelin stars, Martín Berasategui’s cuisine is precise, elegant, and technically flawless.

The tasting menus are long, immersive, and deeply expressive, showcasing both innovation and classical mastery. This is a destination restaurant, best suited for travelers who consider gastronomy a central pillar of their journey to Spain.

4. Mugaritz

Mugaritz is not a conventional restaurant—it is a culinary laboratory. Holding two Michelin stars, it challenges diners’ expectations with experimental dishes that blur the line between food, art, and philosophy.

Each season’s menu is entirely new, driven by curiosity and creativity rather than tradition alone. Mugaritz appeals to adventurous travelers who are open to surprise and intellectual engagement, making it one of the most talked-about dining experiences in the world.

5. Elkano

For a more product-driven and traditional experience, Elkano is unmatched. Famous for serving what many consider the best grilled turbot in the world, this restaurant exemplifies the Basque respect for seafood.

Located in the nearby fishing town of Getaria, Elkano focuses on simplicity, fire, and impeccable sourcing. The result is a deeply authentic experience that highlights the Atlantic soul of Basque cuisine.

Why San Sebastian Is a Must-Visit for Food Lovers

San Sebastian is not just about fine dining—it’s about culinary culture. From Michelin-starred temples to casual pintxos bars, the city lives and breathes food. For travelers from the United States seeking meaningful gastronomic experiences, San Sebastian offers an unparalleled combination of tradition, innovation, and authenticity.

Whether you are drawn to avant-garde tasting menus or perfect grilled fish by the sea, San Sebastian stands as one of the world’s greatest food destinations—and these five restaurants represent the very best of what the city and the Basque Country have to offer.

Travel AdvisorBy admin

The 5 Best Luxury Hotels in Madrid for 2026

Spain’s capital is a city that effortlessly blends royal history, vibrant culture, and contemporary sophistication. Madrid is home to world-renowned museums, elegant boulevards, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a lifestyle that appeals strongly to American travelers seeking both authenticity and comfort. Over the past decade, the city has also positioned itself as one of Europe’s most exciting destinations for luxury travel, thanks to a new generation of high-end hotels that redefine hospitality.

From historic palaces transformed into five-star icons to sleek urban retreats in the heart of the city, Madrid offers exceptional accommodations for discerning travelers. Below, we explore the five best luxury hotels in Madrid, highlighting their location, premium services, and superior room categories.

1. Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid

Located next to the Prado Museum and Retiro Park, the Mandarin Oriental Ritz is one of Madrid’s most iconic luxury hotels. Originally opened in 1910, this Belle Époque landmark has been meticulously restored, combining historic grandeur with modern refinement.

Services and amenities include a luxury spa, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and fine dining curated by renowned chefs. The hotel also offers personalized concierge services, ideal for private cultural visits and bespoke city experiences.

Premium accommodations range from elegant Deluxe Rooms to expansive suites overlooking the Prado. The Signature Suites stand out for their high ceilings, refined décor, and exclusive services, offering a truly aristocratic stay in the cultural heart of Madrid.

2. Four Seasons Hotel Madrid

Perfectly positioned between Puerta del Sol and the luxury shopping district, the Four Seasons Hotel Madrid delivers contemporary luxury in a historic setting. The hotel occupies a collection of restored buildings, seamlessly blending classic architecture with modern design.

Guests enjoy a full-service spa, rooftop pool with panoramic views, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and one of the city’s most vibrant culinary scenes. The rooftop terrace has quickly become one of Madrid’s most exclusive social spots.

Room categories include spacious Superior Rooms and refined Premier Rooms, while the suites offer residential-style comfort. The Four Seasons Suite and Royal Suite are ideal for travelers seeking privacy, generous living space, and top-tier personalized service.

3. Rosewood Villa Magna

Situated on the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, Rosewood Villa Magna is synonymous with discreet luxury and refined hospitality. Following a complete renovation, the hotel has reemerged as one of Madrid’s most sophisticated addresses.

Its services include a world-class spa, wellness center, curated cultural experiences, and an impressive gastronomic offering that blends international cuisine with Spanish flavors. The hotel is especially popular with travelers seeking tranquility without sacrificing proximity to Madrid’s main attractions.

Accommodation options feature spacious Deluxe Rooms and Premier Rooms with residential comfort. The Signature Suites and Salamanca Suite provide exceptional space, elegant design, and exclusive amenities, making them perfect for extended luxury stays.

4. Hotel Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá

Nestled near the Royal Palace and the Opera House, this former 19th-century palace offers a unique blend of history and contemporary luxury. The Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques is ideal for travelers who want to stay in Madrid’s most historic quarter without compromising on comfort.

The hotel features a rooftop pool, wellness area, lush private gardens, and refined dining spaces. Its RedLevel service, Gran Meliá’s premium offering, provides personalized attention, private lounges, and exclusive privileges.

Room options include elegant Premium Rooms and RedLevel Rooms, while the RedLevel Suites deliver exceptional privacy, superior comfort, and personalized concierge services—perfect for luxury-focused cultural travelers.

5. The Madrid EDITION

Modern, bold, and design-driven, The Madrid EDITION offers a fresh take on luxury hospitality. Located near the historic center and major shopping areas, this hotel attracts travelers looking for style, innovation, and a vibrant atmosphere.

The hotel boasts multiple restaurants, two outdoor pools, a wellness center, and striking interior design throughout. It is particularly appealing to younger luxury travelers and those interested in Madrid’s contemporary lifestyle.

Accommodation categories include Superior Rooms and Deluxe Rooms with sleek, minimalist aesthetics. The Loft Suites and Penthouse Suites offer expansive terraces, city views, and exclusive amenities, delivering a modern luxury experience in the heart of Madrid.

Choosing the Best Luxury Hotel in Madrid

ch of these five hotels represents a different facet of Madrid’s luxury scene—from historic elegance and cultural immersion to cutting-edge design and urban energy. Whether your priority is proximity to museums, high-end shopping, gastronomy, or privacy, Madrid offers a luxury hotel perfectly suited to your travel style.

These properties ensure exceptional service, premium accommodations, and unforgettable experiences, setting the stage for a truly memorable visit to Madrid.

Travel AdvisorBy admin

Cuenca. A UNESCO Historic City and the Perfect Day Trip from Madrid

Cuenca offers one of the country’s most dramatic and rewarding cultural experiences. Perched between deep river gorges and crowned by medieval architecture, this small city delivers history, art, and landscape in a way few destinations can. Best of all, Cuenca is an easy and elegant day trip from Madrid, especially when explored privately with a dedicated vehicle and guide.

A Brief History of Cuenca

Cuenca’s strategic location—set high above the confluence of the Júcar and Huécar rivers—has attracted settlers for centuries. Originally a Celtiberian enclave, the city gained real importance under Muslim rule in the 9th century, when it became a fortified stronghold known as Kunka. In 1177, King Alfonso VIII conquered the city, integrating it into the Kingdom of Castile and beginning a period of Christian expansion.

During the Middle Ages, Cuenca prospered through the wool trade and textile production, leaving behind a dense urban fabric of churches, palaces, and noble houses. Its remarkably preserved historic center earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1996, recognizing Cuenca as one of Spain’s most exceptional medieval cities.

The Historic Old Town: A UNESCO Treasure

The heart of Cuenca lies in its Old Town, dramatically suspended between two river gorges. Narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, and panoramic viewpoints create a timeless atmosphere that feels almost untouched by modern life. Walking here is not just sightseeing—it’s an immersion into centuries of Spanish history.

Highlights include medieval arches, Renaissance façades, and hidden corners that reveal breathtaking views at every turn. For visitors from the U.S., Cuenca offers something rare: a historic European city that still feels intimate, authentic, and uncrowded.

The Hanging Houses (Casas Colgadas)

Cuenca’s most iconic symbol is the Casas Colgadas, or Hanging Houses. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, these wooden-balconied homes appear to cling impossibly to the cliff edge above the Huécar Gorge.

Today, the Hanging Houses host cultural spaces, including the renowned Museum of Abstract Art, a fascinating contrast between medieval architecture and contemporary creativity. Standing on their balconies is one of the most memorable experiences in central Spain—and a photographer’s dream.

Nature and Landscape: The Gorges of Cuenca

Cuenca’s setting is as important as its monuments. The Júcar and Huécar gorges carve deep natural canyons around the city, creating dramatic viewpoints and walking paths. Just outside the historic center, visitors can enjoy light hikes, scenic overlooks, and moments of quiet nature—ideal for balancing cultural exploration with fresh air and open landscapes.

This combination of history and nature makes Cuenca especially appealing to travelers seeking meaningful, well-rounded experiences.

A Private Day Trip from Madrid

Cuenca is perfectly suited for a private day trip from Madrid. Traveling by private vehicle allows you to leave the city comfortably in the morning, enjoy a scenic drive through Castile-La Mancha, and arrive directly at Cuenca’s historic center without logistical stress.

A private experience typically includes:

  • Door-to-door transportation from your hotel in Madrid

  • A guided visit to the Old Town and main monuments

  • Free time for lunch and exploration

  • A relaxed return to Madrid in the evening

This approach is ideal for American travelers who value comfort, efficiency, and deeper cultural insight without rushing.

Gourmet Dining in Cuenca

Despite its size, Cuenca offers excellent dining—perfect for a refined lunch during your visit.

Restaurante Raff San Pedro
Highly regarded for its modern interpretation of traditional Manchego cuisine, Raff San Pedro focuses on seasonal ingredients, elegant presentation, and bold flavors. It consistently receives outstanding reviews and is considered one of the city’s top gourmet addresses.

 

Travel AdvisorBy admin

La Tomatina of Buñol: Spain’s Iconic Tomato Festival Explained

If you’re planning a trip to Spain and want to experience its culture in a unique, vibrant, and unforgettable way, La Tomatina of Buñol should be high on your list. Held every summer in the small town of Buñol, this world-famous festival is far more than a tomato fight—it’s a joyful expression of Spanish culture, community spirit, and Mediterranean lifestyle that fascinates travelers

The Origins of La Tomatina: A Festival Born by Chance

The origins of La Tomatina date back to the 1940s. According to the most popular story, everything began during a local parade when a group of young people started an improvised food fight using tomatoes from a nearby market stall. What began as a spontaneous moment of fun quickly became a yearly tradition, repeated again and again due to its popularity.

Although the celebration was temporarily banned in its early years, the determination of local residents kept it alive. By the 1950s, La Tomatina was officially recognized, laying the foundations for what would become one of the most iconic festivals in Spain.

History and Evolution: From Local Tradition to Global Phenomenon

For many years, La Tomatina was mainly known within the Valencia region. However, from the 1980s onward, television coverage and the growth of international tourism helped the festival reach a global audience. Visitors began arriving from all over the world, especially from North America, drawn by the originality and joy of the event.

Today, La Tomatina attracts tens of thousands of participants each year and has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest, confirming its place as a must-see cultural event in Spain.

When and How La Tomatina Takes Place

La Tomatina is held on the last Wednesday of August. At around 11:00 a.m., the tomato battle begins. Trucks loaded with tons of ripe tomatoes enter the streets of Buñol, and for about one hour, participants throw tomatoes at each other in a festive, well-organized, and safe environment.

A few simple rules apply:

  • Tomatoes must be crushed before being thrown.

  • No hard objects are allowed.

  • A positive, fun-loving attitude is essential.

Once the battle ends, the town is completely cleaned, and celebrations continue with music, local food, and street parties.

Cultural Meaning: More Than a Tomato Fight

La Tomatina offers a genuine insight into the Spanish way of life—one that values shared experiences, spontaneity, and enjoyment of the present moment. There are no winners or losers, only thousands of people united in laughter, covered in red, and enjoying a truly collective celebration.

The festival is also deeply connected to Valencian traditions, reflecting the region’s open, welcoming character and its love for popular festivities.

 

La Tomatina is a perfect example of how a small local tradition can become a powerful symbol of singular culture in Spain. Travelers seeking authentic experiences, memorable festivals, and real connections with local culture will find in La Tomatina an event that goes far beyond sightseeing.

It represents the essence of Spain: history, celebration, hospitality, and a passion for living life to the fullest—one tomato at a time. 🍅

 

 

 

 

 

Text: Spain Luxury Trips

Photos: Amparo Pardo

Travel AdvisorBy admin

Paradores Hotels. Luxury in Historic Hotels

Spain’s iconic Paradores hotel network has its origins in the early 1900s, a time when the country faced a clear shortage of quality accommodation for travelers. Recognizing this challenge, the Spanish Government—acting on the initiative of King Alfonso XIII—created the Royal Tourism Commission to identify outstanding sites worthy of development. After extensive exploration, the project came to life in 1928 with the inauguration of the first Parador in the Sierra de Gredos mountains. Known today as Parador de Gredos, this refined mountain retreat remains a landmark of Spanish hospitality and continues to captivate guests from around the world.

The outstanding reception of the inaugural Parador encouraged the initiative to grow, establishing historic landmarks and areas of remarkable natural scenery as defining features of future properties. Backed by strong government support—particularly during the rapid development years of the 1960s—the Paradores network expanded in parallel with Spain’s improving national infrastructure.

Beyond hospitality, the Paradores concept played a crucial role in the preservation and restoration of emblematic castles and palatial residences, many of which carried centuries of history long before becoming hotels.

Today, Paradores hotels continue the proud legacy of exemplary service and total comfort in its diverse locations throughout Spain.

We present a carefully curated selection of 5 luxury Paradores in Spain. These exceptional properties offer a refined way to experience Spain’s heritage with elegance and comfort.

Parador de Carmona

Carmona

Overlooking the wide plains of Andalusia, Parador de Carmona offers a comfortable, upscale stay inside a historic Moorish fortress once known as the Alcázar del Rey Don Pedro. The hotel features spacious, well-appointed rooms, many with far-reaching countryside views. Guests can savor authentic Andalusian cuisine, showcasing local olive oil, traditional recipes, and regional wines, served in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. With excellent road connections between Seville and Córdoba, this Parador is perfectly located for private travelers exploring Andalusia’s cultural heart, while enjoying heritage, gastronomy, and understated luxury.

Parador de Cardona

Dominating the landscape from a dramatic hilltop, Parador de Cardona offers an extraordinary luxury stay within a 10th-century medieval castle overlooking the Catalan countryside. This iconic fortress-hotel features spacious, elegantly appointed rooms, many showcasing original stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and panoramic views. Guests enjoy refined Catalan cuisine, attentive personalized service, and a tranquil, exclusive atmosphere ideal for private travelers. Its historic setting, combined with modern comfort and privacy, makes it a standout destination for discerning guests seeking heritage, authenticity, and understated luxury in Spain.

Parador de Santa Catalina

Parador de Santa Catalina (Jaén)

Set on the hill of Santa Catalina, Parador de Jaén offers a relaxed yet upscale stay inside a historic castle with incredible views over Jaén and its endless olive groves. The hotel has comfortable, spacious rooms, many with wide-open panoramas, mixing historic charm with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy local Andalusian cuisine, friendly, attentive service, and a quiet, laid-back atmosphere that feels private without being stiff. It’s a great choice for travelers who want history, scenery, and comfort, all wrapped in a luxury experience that feels natural and unpretentious in southern Spain.

Parador de Santiago

Located directly on Plaza del Obradoiro, beside the cathedral, Parador de Santiago de Compostela offers a comfortable, upscale stay inside what is considered one of the oldest hotels in the world. Originally built to welcome pilgrims at the end of the Camino de Santiago, this historic property still reflects that spirit of hospitality. Today, it features spacious, elegant rooms, peaceful stone cloisters, and a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Guests enjoy excellent Galician cuisine, attentive service, and an unbeatable location—perfect for travelers who want to experience history, tradition, and understated luxury at the final stop of the Camino.

Parador de Baiona

Perched on the Monterreal Peninsula and surrounded by the Atlantic, Parador de Baiona offers a relaxed yet refined stay inside a historic fortress overlooking the ocean. With sweeping views of the Cíes Islands and the Galician coastline, the hotel features spacious, comfortable rooms, many with sea-facing terraces. Guests can enjoy traditional Galician cuisine, highlighting fresh seafood, local fish, octopus, and regional wines, served in an elegant yet informal setting. Combined with friendly service, oceanfront walks, and a calm atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking coastal beauty, authentic flavors, and laid-back luxury in northern Spain.

 

 

 

 

 

Text: Spain Luxury Trips

Photos: Paradores

Travel AdvisorBy admin

First Time Traveling to Spain: North vs South and How to Choose Your Perfect Trip

Traveling to Spain for the first time is an exciting decision—but also a complex one. Spain is not a single, uniform destination. Its cultural diversity, regional identities, landscapes, climate, and cuisine vary dramatically from one area to another. As a result, first-time visitors often face a fundamental question:
Should they visit Northern Spain, Southern Spain, or combine both regions in one trip?

The final decision usually depends on three core factors:

  1. Number of vacation days available

  2. Cultural and emotional expectations

  3. Preferred travel style (pace, climate, type of experiences)

The First Key Question: What Image of Spain Does the Traveler Have?

Before even looking at a map, most travelers already carry an image of Spain in their minds. Very often, that image is closely linked to Southern Spain: sunshine, historic architecture, Moorish influences, vibrant street life, traditional cuisine, and a slower, more relaxed rhythm of life.

What many travelers don’t realize is that Northern Spain offers a completely different experience—lush green landscapes, Atlantic coastlines, refined gastronomy, elegant cities, and strong regional traditions.

At its core, the first trip to Spain answers an unspoken question:
“Do I want to experience the Spain I already imagine—or discover a Spain I didn’t expect?”

Traveling to Northern Spain: Traveler Profile and Expectations

Northern Spain—regions such as the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia—appeals to a specific type of first-time traveler.

What Does This Traveler Look For?

  • Nature and green landscapes

  • Milder summer temperatures

  • High-level gastronomy (often a primary motivation)

  • Elegant cities with fewer crowds

  • A calmer, more refined travel pace

Advantages for a First Trip

  • Ideal for travelers already familiar with Europe

  • Exceptional for food and wine lovers

  • Less tourist saturation in many areas

Possible Limitations

  • Fewer of Spain’s classic “iconic” landmarks

  • More unpredictable weather

  • Requires thoughtful logistics and planning

👉 Northern Spain works best when travelers have 10–12 days or more.

Traveling to Southern Spain: The Most Common First Choice

Southern Spain—particularly Andalusia—is the most popular choice for first-time visitors to Spain.

Why?

Because it concentrates many of the elements most people associate with Spain:

  • Monumental and visible history

  • Strong Moorish and medieval heritage

  • A sunny climate most of the year

  • Diverse and accessible cuisine

  • Cities with strong, recognizable identities

Advantages for a First-Time Trip

  • Immediate cultural impact

  • Short distances between major cities

  • Excellent tourism infrastructure

  • Perfect for 7–10 day itineraries

Potential Challenges

  • Higher visitor numbers in peak seasons

  • The need to balance pace to avoid travel fatigue

👉 For a first visit with limited time, Southern Spain offers the most complete and emotionally engaging introduction to the country.

What If the Traveler Has More Time? Combining North and South

When travelers have 12–15 days or more, a third option becomes especially attractive: combining Northern and Southern Spain in one journey.

This approach allows travelers to:

  • Contrast landscapes (green Atlantic vs. Mediterranean south)

  • Experience different lifestyles and cuisines

  • Understand Spain’s true regional diversity

  • Avoid the feeling of “missing something important”

Traveler Profile for a Combined Itinerary

  • Culturally curious travelers

  • Travelers seeking depth over quantity

  • Those unlikely to return to Spain in the near future

  • Travelers who value a comprehensive understanding of a destination

The Key to Success

A combined itinerary works well only when:

  • Logistics are carefully planned

  • Unnecessary transfers are avoided

  • A limited number of well-connected bases is selected

👉 The goal is not to see more, but to understand Spain better.

Time as the Decisive Factor

Available DaysStrategic Recommendation
5–7 daysSouthern Spain (1–2 cities)
8–10 daysWell-structured Southern Spain itinerary
11–13 daysNorthern Spain or a light combination
14–16 daysBalanced North + South journey
17+ daysMulti-region Spain experience

One of the most common mistakes first-time visitors make is trying to see too much. Spain is best enjoyed not by checking off cities, but by immersing in experiences.

Conclusion: There Is Not One Spain—There Are Many

A first trip to Spain often defines how travelers connect with the country in the long term. Choosing between the north, the south, or a combination is not simply a geographic decision—it’s an emotional and experiential one.

  • Southern Spain delivers the classic, emotional image of Spain

  • Northern Spain surprises and deepens appreciation

  • A combined itinerary explains Spain in all its complexity

From here, this analysis can easily evolve into:

  • A fully optimized SEO article in English

  • A strategic travel guide for first-time visitors

  • A foundation for tailored, experience-driven itineraries

Travel AdvisorBy admin

The Glass House. Slepping under stars in the desert

The Glass House, located in the heart of the Gorafe Desert in Granada, Spain, is one of those rare experiences that feels like stepping onto another planet.
This extraordinary accommodation, fully integrated into its surroundings, offers a private and luxurious stay where sky, earth, and silence merge in perfect harmony.

Built with sustainable materials and featuring large panoramic windows, The Glass House invites you to admire the vast desert landscape from every angle.
Its minimalist architecture and sleek design make it the perfect hideaway for travelers seeking exclusivity, tranquility, and a deep connection with nature in southern Spain.

Gorafe

The Gorafe Desert, also known as the “Desert of the Coloraos,” is one of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes. With its red-hued canyons, rugged terrain, and wild beauty, it resembles the American Southwest.
Visitors can enjoy private 4×4 tours, guided hikes, stargazing sessions, or explore the prehistoric Gorafe Megalithic Park, home to some of Spain’s most impressive dolmens.

Staying at The Glass House is not just about accommodation — it’s about living a full sensory experience. Watch the sunrise paint the desert in shades of gold, or enjoy a private dinner under a sky filled with stars.
Every moment becomes a memory to treasure.

Through Andalucía Experiencias, you can enjoy exclusive stays at The Glass House combined with tailor-made desert experiences: guided 4×4 excursions, gourmet dinners featuring local flavors, and private astronomical sessions led by expert guides.
Every detail is curated for travelers who value privacy, sophistication, and authenticity.

The Glass House in Gorafe is more than a luxury stay — it’s an emotional journey through the silence, stars, and vastness of one of Spain’s most extraordinary landscapes.

Gorafe
Gorafe
Gorafe

Text: Spain Luxury Trips 

Photography: Maria Gallardo

Travel AdvisorBy Miguel Angel Gómez

What is a Luxury Travel really?

WINE TASTING

What is a Luxury Travel really?

WINE TASTING

Since we started back in 2009 to offer trips and private experiences in Andalusia, much has changed; both the profile of the traveler and trends, and of course the external circumstances of a globalized world that nothing makes us strangers and affects us.

In this journey, with its comings and goings, I have met clients who over the years have become friends. They chat via whatsapp, call me after hours to tell me why they have had problems with a client, the most improbable anecdotes that would be enough for a book, etc. One of these friends is Adriana Vilas. She is a professional in the tourism sector with a luxury travel agency located in Madrid. From the beginning, besides trusting in our way of working and how to see inbound tourism, she has become a friend over the years, where we exchange views on the industry and trends, which by circumstances are transforming the tourism landscape.

Adriana got it right, in my opinion, with what is the concept today of what is a Luxury Travel. This updated concept and under her experience (in addition to long phone and whatsapp chats) encouraged her to describe this concept.

rooftop tour

But what is luxury travel?

Defining what luxury is today is not at all simple, especially if we analyze how this concept has evolved throughout history.

Today, it is not so much about ostentation or high-end products, but rather luxury refers to experience, to something intangible.

Luxury is a concept that each person lives and feels, with a different meaning. What is or is not luxury, will depend on our experiences and our personal experience.

However, all luxury has something in common, it is perceived to be associated with an experience that has to be, above all, unique, distinctive, different, out of the ordinary, and, of course, exclusive.

There is something we can all agree on and that is that this concept of luxury is associated with other terms such as quality, excellence, differentiation and exclusivity.

Merida
Italica

Coco Chanel, stated that “luxury is a necessity that begins when necessity ends”.

With this premise, it can be said that more than changing the concept, what has occurred is a change in the perception of what luxury itself is. From being a global concept, it has become something very personal and subjective.

For us working on a concept with such personal implications and moving between such blurred definitions, organizing travel experiences based on luxury and distinction is always a challenge for us.

I know that it is not enough with what we know, with what our experience dictates, with intuition or with the story offered by the trends of the moment. We must always be one step ahead.

In the sector we find everything, since the term ostentation is still applied, but experience tells us that someone who seeks ostentation does not give value to the terms I mentioned before.

Another fundamental aspect that my friend was talking about is DISTINCTION:

“Luxury will be that feel like a local more instead of feeling like a tourist. It will be to travel without worrying about anything, feeling that your trip has been designed in a different way, out of the conventional and in an authentic way, with exclusivity, in private tours and experiencesthat are designed with care and attention to the smallest detail.

To turn a trip into a luxury experience, it is necessary to make an effort to touch the heartstrings, moving you to pleasurable experiences, intense, very pleasant sensations”.

 

And you? What is a travel luxury for you?