Last week, our Director of Travel Planning, Shanna, had the honor of attending the inaugural DUCO Spain & Portugal. This invitation-only summit spotlights the most exceptional experiences, properties, and partners across these two destinations. Designed as a boutique, destination-focused event, DUCO connects the region’s top luxury hospitality providers with a handpicked group of leading travel advisors from around the world.
Why do we attend events like this? In short, attending DUCO Spain & Portugal elevates a travel advisor from planner to authority on the luxury offerings of the Iberian Peninsula—translating directly into unforgettable, highly tailored experiences for our most discerning clients.
After 80+ one-on-one meetings, countless networking moments, and a series of memorable events infused with true Andalusian flair, Shanna returned feeling inspired.
Here are her Top 5 Highlights from the summit.
Andalusia
Andalusia, the sun-drenched heart of southern Spain, is a region of vivid contrasts and timeless allure. From the soaring Alhambra in Granada to the flamenco-filled streets of Seville, the region’s historic cities are treasure troves of Moorish architecture, Renaissance palaces, and centuries of layered culture. Beyond the cities, Andalusia offers golden beaches along the Costa de la Luz, charming whitewashed villages like Ronda and Mijas, and dramatic mountain landscapes perfect for hiking. The region is also a culinary paradise, from tapas bars in bustling plazas to fine dining experiences highlighting fresh seafood, Iberian ham, and Andalusian olive oils. Whether you’re drawn by history, gastronomy, or natural beauty, Andalusia delivers an immersive Spanish experience that lingers long after you leave.
Titanium Tours
If you’ve ever planned a Spain or Portugal journey with Shanna, chances are you’ve already experienced the magic of our partner Titanium Tours. DUCO gave her the chance to finally meet several members of their team in person. From airport meet-and-greets and private touring with expert local guides to professional, highly knowledgeable drivers, Titanium is a core extension of our service. Shanna collaborates closely with their team to design fully customized itineraries based on each client’s preferences, and then elevates the experience even further with true “boots-on-the-ground” support and daily, in-country assistance while you travel.
Portugal's Surf Coast
Portugal’s western shoreline has become a magnet for travelers seeking wild Atlantic beauty, world-class waves, and slow-luxury stays with design at their core. Just 40 minutes from Lisbon, Aethos Ericeira sits above one of Europe’s only World Surfing Reserves, a striking modern refuge with a wellness-leaning social scene built around salt water, saunas, and slow living. Farther down the coast near Melides, Pa.te.os redefines rural minimalism with four sculptural villas by Manuel Aires Mateus, equal parts art piece and hideaway, opening out to cork forest stillness and soft-braided dunes. Together, they capture Portugal’s surf coast at its best, kinetic by day, transcendent by night.
Costa Brava
Just north of Barcelona, the Costa Brava unspools in a series of rugged coves, pine-draped cliffs, and water as clear as glass. This lesser-known Spanish destination is a dramatic, wildly beautiful counterpoint to the city’s urban buzz. In under 90 minutes by car you can swap Gothic lanes for secret calas and stone-walled fishing villages. The region rewards both culture-hunters and pleasure-seekers: medieval hill towns like Pals and Peratallada, the Dalí Triangle, cliff-path hikes on the Camí de Ronda, boat days in teal-blue coves, and seafood pulled from the water hours before it hits the plate. For anyone who loves Barcelona but craves a quieter, more cinematic coast within easy reach, the Costa Brava over-delivers.
Mallorca
Mallorca, the jewel of the Balearic Islands, offers a refined blend of Mediterranean charm, hidden coves, and sophisticated luxury, inviting travelers to explore secluded beaches, gourmet dining, and vibrant local culture. Nestled in the Tramuntana Mountains, La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel (photo above), combines timeless Mallorcan architecture with lush gardens, art collections, and terraced suites overlooking charming Deià village — perfect for those who seek a serene, culturally rich escape. For a more dramatic and exclusive retreat, Cap Rocat, a former military fortress turned five-star hideaway, sits atop a cliff overlooking the Bay of Palma, offering unparalleled privacy, bespoke service, and intimate Mediterranean experiences. Together, these properties showcase Mallorca’s ability to cater to every kind of luxury traveler, from contemporary seaside elegance to historic, art-filled mountain retreats and secluded cliffside havens.
Inspired to explore Spain or Portugal in style? From boutique hotels to private wine tastings and cultural treasures, we’ll design a journey as unforgettable as these destinations. Click the button below to connect with our team to start planning your next getaway.
Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I absolutely love travel and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.
