In just a few days, some of our Mediterranean destinations will be reopening their doors to European tourists, setting the stage for the next steps to reopen to other international guests. We cannot wait to travel again and to plan your perfect tailor made holiday in these spectacular countries! This week, we spoke with some of our favorite tour guides in Spain so that our clients can get to know them a little better as they share stories, tips and expert advice for a future trip!
But first… Spain needs no introduction. This vibrant, colorful country has some of the continent’s most famous cities and museums, and the different regions are so varied that even return travelers will always be able to see something new and unique. We have some truly wonderful guides and drivers that help our clients explore and discover these amazing cities and villages, and they are incredibly important part of what makes your trip come together seamlessly. While we cannot meet you personally, these great professionals are your hosts in their home country, and we know that they are the best. They are people we know and tours we have been on ourselves, and they are colleagues and in many cases, good friends as well.
1. What do you love about being a tour guide in Spain? Why did you decide to become a guide?
Colm, our expert local guide in San Sebastian (below):
I’m half irish, so I have family and friends coming over a lot, so as you can imagine, I show them around (a lot!). My best friend since we were 5 years old has been a tour guide in Spain for many many years. One day he asked me if I could help him with a group and I loved it.
Federico, one of our amazing Madrid guides: I became a tour guide in Spain because I enjoy making people happy!
2. What is a destination or site that you most enjoy taking guests?
Colm, San Sebastian: One of my favorite places to bring people is to our private gastronomic club. This venues are unique of the Basque Country and they were originally created in San Sebastian. The private cooking class that Bella Vita Travels can arrange is lot of fun, and I love the way our guests enjoy them!
3. What is your best moment with clients that you can remember?
Federico, Madrid (below with Megan, Luigi and Pietro) : I loved meeting piccolo Pietro (Note from BVT: Pietro is Megan and Luigi’s son ) – I especially love guiding teens and kids!
4.Your recommendation for the best time of year to visit your country/city/town and why ?
Federico, Madrid: I love the winter in Madrid. It’s not cold and there are no crowds!
Colm, San Sebastian: The best time for me is September. The weather is not that hot and it’s not so crowded . Also the San Sebastián internacional film festival is held this month and during the first two weekends, the famous regatas happen in la Concha Bay. It is a rowing competition, simulating the old whale hunting boats from centuries ago. They come from all the different finishing villages around, and it creates a great atmosphere in the Old Part.
5. What you find most exciting or inspiring about your area?
Federico, Madrid: Madrid is undoubtedly the most vibrant city in Spain! I love to visit the outdoor cafes, taste the tapas & wine in cozy taverns, I love showing clients the Museo del Prado!
Colm, San Sebastian: Our culture…history, gastronomy, language and the way we love to be out on the street, eating and drinking with friends and family.
6. Which place do you love to visit in their country?
Colm, San Sebastien: The Rioja wine region in autumn. The fall there is amazing, with all the different range of colors that you can find.
7. If you could give a tour to anyone (from the past or present), who would it be?
Colm, San Sebastian: [the recent terrible news] It shocked me so much, but Kobe Bryant and family.
8. Personal favorite restaurant?
Colm, San Sebastian: I am not a big fan of modern cuisine, Michelin “type” starred restaurants and I love traditional gastronomy. However, if I can say one, Zelai Txiki in San Sebastián. The way they mix traditional and modern cuisine is amazing.
Federico, Madrid: Platea!
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