Follow my adventure: A family journey through Spain with Elsewhere by Dinogo Planet

Even with my passion for travel and planning, crafting an exceptional family vacation can be quite a challenge for me.

Our family consists of Bella, an 18-year-old soon-to-be college athlete (go Wisconsin Badgers!); Sophie, a 16-year-old aspiring artist and style maven; and Anderson (his first name is my last name), an eight-year-old sports enthusiast always eager for an adventure (except when it involves trying new foods). Then there’s John and I, who've visited so many places that our checklist for family trips typically includes one essential element: a memorable meal just for us.

To honor Bella’s high school graduation and celebrate our back-to-back spring birthdays, we decided on Spain, knowing it would cater to our diverse family needs. The best decision I made was reaching out to the brilliant local expert Laura Guillen Olavide from Elsewhere by Dinogo Planet for assistance in planning our trip. The itinerary she designed for us was precisely what I envisioned but lacked the time and local knowledge to execute myself. Our June getaway exceeded everyone’s expectations.

Where did you stay? What was the atmosphere like?

We visited three cities: Madrid, Málaga, and Barcelona. The three hotels that Laura selected offered both of my must-have family vacation features: a pool for relaxation after activities and room service for those times when one (or more) of us is too tired to head out. Each location had a family-style room for three and a double for the teens.

In Madrid, we stayed at the conveniently located Catalonia Gran Via, right on the main shopping street and just a short stroll from the art triangle. The girls adored the boutique city vibe, and we appreciated having an extra proper bed in our room instead of the typical pull-out couch.

The grand structure of Gran Hotel Miramar in Málaga has served various purposes over its century-long history, including a hospital and municipal building. A recent comprehensive renovation has restored it to its original function as a luxurious seaside retreat. With its elegant, predominantly white decor accented by glittering mirrors and sparkling Moorish details, we felt a bit like movie stars. With two pools, numerous dining options, a spa, and endless seaside views, we might have never left if the allure of Barcelona hadn't been so compelling.

Just steps away from two Gaudí must-sees on the renowned shopping street Passeig de Gracia, Hotel Condes de Barcelona boasts an abundance of friendly staff that made us feel like we had our own personal butlers each time we entered the beautifully modernized 19th-century mansion.

What was the best dish you tried?

John and I decided to leave all three kids behind for a Michelin-starred experience at Restaurante Jose Carlos Garcia in Málaga. This restaurant offers a strictly multiple-course malagueño-inspired tasting menu, with 70% of the ingredients sourced locally, all served in a chic, contemporary setting that feels upscale yet relaxed.

That – along with ham, ham, and more ham, found everywhere we went.

What did you arrange before your trip?

We planned just enough to create a structure without overwhelming ourselves with a packed commercial itinerary. We reserved hotels, transportation, and essential activities like golf, sailing, a cooking class, special dinners, and an out-of-town adventure ahead of time. This resulted in about one planned activity each day, leaving us ample free time.

What was your favorite activity during the trip?

If we had to cast a group vote, we would likely all agree that the half-day sailing adventure along the Costa del Sol was a highlight. Individually, from oldest to youngest: John enjoyed golfing with Anderson at the breathtaking Torrequebrada. I was even more captivated by La Sagrada Familia (almost complete!) than I was on my first visit two decades ago. Bella was thrilled with the homemade croquetas during our mother-daughter cooking class with Bernardita, and she also embraced the lower drinking age, happily sipping Tinto de Verano. Sophie fell in love with Madrid, particularly the Reina Sofia, while Anderson can't stop talking about his experience at Camp Nou, home of FC Barcelona, where he scored against the RoboKeeper and brought home some awesome souvenirs.

What’s your favorite photo from the trip and where was it taken?

I cherish this photo of my son framing one of the best views of Madrid from the rooftop restaurant Azotea del Circulo, alongside his own shot of the Gran Via. Giving Anderson a camera and assigning him to take pictures kept him engaged, even during activities that might not typically interest an eight-year-old. Plus...hello, Madrid sunset.

What was the most touristy activity you did?

We participated in guided walking tours in each city, which felt appropriate for our three first-timers to Spain. Fortunately, Laura arranged for us to have energetic guides, especially in Madrid, where US-born Margit crafted our entire experience around snacks and drinks along the way.

What’s your top tip for someone planning a similar trip?

Reach out to Laura today. Just head over to Elsewhere's Spain page and submit a request.