Spain & Portugal Trip Review: Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian, Toledo, Douro Valley, Tapas Tours, History, Art, Food, Beaches

First, a great part of the success and enjoyment of this trip were several of our awesome guides - the following stood out because they possessed passion for their job and a love of sharing the gems of their country with us. Also, they were attentive to both of our needs/desires by tweaking the tour to more than satisfy both of us.
1. The tapas tour in Barcelona with our guide. Although I couldn’t make it, my husband went and absolutely loved it. He had such a great time not only enjoying the food but enjoying our guide's wonderful company.
2. Our passionate guide in San Sebastian. He showed us a wonderful time, educated us on the history of the area and seemed to love every moment of it. We loved it!
3. Our Madrid tapas tour guide. What a fun guy to be around. In addition, we learned so much about the local favorites and went back to some of the bars as well as tried others that he recommended. He also was very sensitive to my needs as I just got over a stomach bug and he wanted to make sure I enjoyed the food as well. And I surely did! We loved all the foods we tried – all! Thank you! (We bumped into him when we were on our Toledo tour three days later and exchanged hugs)
4. Our Toledo guide – whew what energy she had. So fun, educational, and Passionate! She also took the time to point out her favorite souvenir shops and restaurant for lunch which we both enjoyed.
5. Our driver who took us from our hotel in Porto to Douro Valley. He was a smart, personal, well-educated, accommodating man with a lot of life’s experiences. In conversing with him and realizing our interest in Portuguese history he asked if we were interested in going to the birthplace of the most well-known explorer, Ferdinand Magellan. YES!!! He called our Douro Valley guide whom he knew and asked if it was OK that we arrive a little late. We B-lined to Magellan’s hometown. WOW!!! 500 years ago. That give us goosebumps!! We also discovered how much BB King was adored and honored in Porto and saw the park named after him. What an unexpected treat it was to see Magellan’s birthplace and see and hear about BB King’s performances there and how he was loved. Thank you!!
Second, the entire trip was full of adventure, history, art, food, and fun and set at a perfect pace. We were engrossed in learning about the diversity of the countries – from the history, stunning art, and food to the natural beauty of the hills, valleys, rivers, and beaches. We were also impressed with the cleanliness of the streets and bathrooms and overall safety we felt everywhere throughout Spain and Portugal. We had an awesome adventure thanks to the meticulous individualized planning between us and Brianna from our travel agency.