Travel Journal

Travel Journal

flamenco dancers rear view

How to live la Buena Vida

One of the biggest things I try to do—through everything I create—is help people live la buena vida. The good life.

Not just when you’re on holiday. Not someday. But now. In the small, everyday moments that make life feel a little slower, a little fuller, a little more you.

Because living in Spain taught me something important: The good life isn’t something you chase. It’s something you build—through rhythm, ritual, and paying attention to what actually fills you up.

Here are a few of my favourite Spanish rituals you can steal immediately:

– Paseo: Take a slow, early-evening wander with no purpose except pleasure. Bonus points for sunset and ice cream.
– Vermút hour: Grab a friend, pour a little something, and sip like you’ve got nowhere else to be.
– Sobremesa: Stay at the table after you eat. Let the conversation wander. Let yourself linger.
– Comida local: Buy something fresh and in season. Cook it simply. Eat it slowly, ideally outside.

The best part? You don’t need to be in Spain to live like this. All it takes is a shift in pace. A pause. A bit of presence. And a reminder that joy doesn’t need to be big to be real.

And if you do want to experience these rituals where they were born—and where they’re still lived daily, with flair—I’d love to help you plan your trip. Honestly, it’s my favourite thing to do!

A day in the Delta de l’Ebre: 

A wine harvest festival in El Priorato

dancers in sevilla

Some of the fun experiences I create for clients

I’m one of those lucky people constantly meeting others who do the most incredible things! (And you’re the lucky beneficiaries of these relationships!)

I’m always on the lookout for experts—people who have not only mastered their craft but who honour the traditions and techniques handed down through generations. Over the past few weeks, I have met many of these people and we’ve been crafting some really special experiences across Spain. Here’s a little taste of what I’ve been crafting (and what can make your next trip truly incredible) …

Learn the Art of Cava in the Penedés

Cava, the sparkling wine crafted in Catalunya’s Penedés region, is made using the same traditional method as Champagne. So, imagine my excitement when an award-winning biodynamic winemaker invited us to his small vineyard to share the secrets of his family’s craft! And then he asked if we’d like to join his family for a rustic, home-cooked lunch among the vines. Um, ¡Sííííí por favor! Just an hour from Barcelona, it’s the kind of unforgettable experience that makes you fall in love with Spain all over again.
flamenco dancers rear view
flamenco dancers rear view

Create your Signature Scent in Mallorca

When I first discovered a little atelier in Palma de Mallorca, I knew instantly it had to be a Biznaga experience. Together with Victor and Helena, we’ve crafted a magical natural scent workshop. You’ll learn all about the wild essential oils they distill from plants foraged on their finca—and then, you’ll create your very own signature scent using those oils! I brought home a roller from my last visit, and honestly, every time I open it, I’m transported straight back to Mallorca.

Cook with Abuelo in a 'Txoko'

Txokos are special Basque gastronomic societies, usually open only to local gentlemen and rarely to the public. They’re not restaurants but private cooking clubs where everyone takes part in preparing and sharing a long, leisurely lunch together. Each person has a role—whether it’s bringing ingredients from their own garden, cooking, pouring wine, or cleaning up. It’s such a cherished part of Basque culture, and I was thrilled to gain access for one of my private groups. This is an experience that immerses you in the heart of local traditions, sharing a meal just like family.
flamenco dancers rear view
flamenco dancers rear view
flamenco dancers rear view
flamenco dancers rear view

Taste Olive Oil off the Press in Jaén

There’s something truly magical about Andalucía during the olive harvest season. The ancient olive trees, their gnarled trunks heavy with fruit, fill the air with the unmistakable scent of freshly pressed olive oil. This December, I have a rare opportunity to stay on a private finca in Jaén, where the owner will guide us through his olive groves, showing us the art of harvesting and producing olive oil with a traditional cold press. But it doesn’t stop there—he’ll also be treating us to a private tasting, where we’ll sample the oil just moments after it’s been pressed. I can’t wait to share it with you soon. Stay tuned!

Continue Your Journey Through Spain