Curious to see one of our much-adored tours through the eyes of a Tour Leader?
Today, we step into Julia’s world for a heartfelt look behind the scenes of life on the road – from Spanish rooftops to Portuguese hill towns.
Tell us your story
“I always pictured myself on the road, however, it was in a jaunty caravan driving around Australia. Fast forward four years and I've swapped the Australian outback and long dusty roads to driving on the right, fiestas, siestas, sangria and vino tinto, pintxos and tapas.
Big cities and small towns and meeting a never-ending array of new people all intent on having as much fun as I. Oh, I'm not doing the driving – which is probably a good thing. I'm strapped into the jump seat, microphone in hand and balancing everything on my knees.
Life on the road looks very different to what I'd imagined, but it's brilliant. My dream job. A job that I was born to do and now I get paid to do it. The bonus: the people. Life as a Tour Leader is good and I feel blessed”.
Behind the scenes: Iberian Inspiration
“This year I had the privilege of kicking off two of our Iberian tours, first up the Iberian Inspiration tour. Whilst the weather threatened to be wet, the 18 Aussies were not going to let that dampen their spirits. Over welcome drinks and dinner, firm friendships were fast being made. It happens every time. New BFF's.
Each time I try and visit something I haven't seen yet in each place. This time, although I had visited many years ago, it was the 13th Century Cathedral, the Catedral Primada Metropolitana de Santa María de la Asunción - stunning in all its Gothic glory. With the sun shining, pre-dinner drinks up on our hotels rooftop bar were a must before heading out to dinner together”.
Location spotlight: Cordoba
“Arriving into Cordoba and walking over the old Roman bridge, I pinch myself to remind myself that this is my job. Our hotel, Casas de la Juderia, is one of my favourites and with everyone settled in, we plan for an orientation walk around the stunning old part of town. Off we set through narrow, cobbled stoned streets.
With our stroll around the block complete, the group disperses into the evening air much like the orange blossom to find food or a vino tinto. The following day after a walk around the old town, we step inside the Mezquita. I love watching guests faces as they look around in wonder. It is amazing and to the guests who last year asked if I ever get sick of visiting the same place – nope. It remains my number one attraction in Spain”.
Location spotlight: Granada
“In Granada, we stop in Ubeda for an olive oil experience – 18 new professional olive oil tasters in the world! Once in Granada, we set off on another orientation walk before heading to try some of the famous free tapas that come with a drink.
Luckily for me, they've accidently purchased a ticket for me to enter the magical Alhambra, so I too get to wander around the Nazrid Palaces and this amazing place.
Once back to the city, the group gets together for dinner in the Bib-Rambla Plaza, a fun night...”
Winding through Spain into Portugal
“Day 11 and it's time to say farewell to Spain as we cross into Portugal and stop in the little town of Monsaraz. The views are breathtaking, the church is now open, and I never get tired of this whitewashed town high up on a hill. For our last night, we check into a castle in Estremoz. More glorious views, another sleepy little town and a fun last night dinner.
Our final day looms as we leave our castle and head to Evora, the capital of the Alentejo region of Portugal, before beginning our drive to Lisbon. Farewells are always a bit rushed, but it's been another great trip, and 18 happy guests head off to continue their adventures. My first tour of the season comes to an end and it's time for a few days off to catch up on sleep and washing before getting ready to do it all again!”
From hilltop towns to grand cathedrals, Julia’s journey through Spain and Portugal was packed with flavour, connection and personal moments.
Interested in experiencing Iberia through the eyes of a passionate Tour Leader?
Join Julia or another one of our experts on an unforgettable Spanish adventure.