This past November, our travel manager Jessica attended an exciting event in the Alentejo region of Portugal called ‘Uncorking Alentejo’. This unique experience connected luxury travel advisors with local hotels and wineries, and it also incorporated a fun FAM trip…

Here at Valesa, we are passionate about responsible tourism, and we believe in giving back to local communities in need. In 2024, we proudly donated 2% of companywide profits to the rural village of Tiniskt, Morocco. The area was hit…

Spain and Portugal are famous for their diverse, regional cuisines and rich culinary traditions. During the winter, hearty stews are commonly eaten and there are plenty of recipe variations throughout the country. Here are some of the most popular stews…

Our sales team recently visited the quaint towns of Colmenar de Oreja and Chinchón as part of our constant search for authentic, local experiences. Just a 45-minute drive from the capital, these small villages are full of things to do…

Meet Jessica, our lovely coworker of 10 years! Not only is she one of our luxury travel managers, but she is also a kind friend and hardworking mother. As is the case with most of us, she has a multicultural…

Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s seven Canary Islands, is home to many breathtaking natural wonders. With a warm and sunny climate year-round, it’s the perfect place to escape the cold winter! This volcanic island has black soil and black sand…

Castañas, or chestnuts, hold a special place in Spanish cuisine and culture, especially during the autumn and winter months. During this time, chestnuts are sold on street corners or in local plazas in many cities. These stands, or castañeras, roast…

Upon arrival in Spain, you will undoubtedly notice the prevalence of vermouth, or ‘vermut’, especially at aperitif time before lunch or dinner. In Spain, vermouth takes on a special significance that stands apart from the vermouth typically consumed in a…

Comforting soups and stews are a staple in Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, especially during the cold winter months. With recipes rooted in tradition, these dishes are loved to this day and can be found on many restaurant menus. Spain and…