Janelle Norman
I originally came to Spain to improve my Spanish and stay for a year or two. Now I´ve been here almost two decades! With over 15 years of experience designing custom journeys throughout Spain and Portugal, I help travelers experience the Iberian Peninsula in a way that feels authentic, seamless, and personal. I have called Madrid home for many years, meaning I can offer an insider’s perspective while understanding the expectations of international travelers.
I’ve explored both countries extensively and have also lived in Granada in the south, and San Sebastián in the Basque Country, two destinations that are still some of my favorites. I’ve also spent a significant amount of time in Porto and love traveling throughout Portugal.
When I’m not planning trips, you’ll find me rock climbing, discovering great local restaurants, visiting wineries, or exploring lesser-known corners of Spain and Portugal.
At Espíritu Travel, I craft personalized itineraries that balance iconic highlights with carefully chosen experiences and accommodations, creating meaningful journeys tailored to each traveler.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I specialize in luxury travel, gastronomy, wine regions, culture, unique experiences, historical sites, special interest trips and accessibility. "
How did you get involved in travel?
"I began my career in travel by leading food and wine tours in Madrid. From there, I joined a luxury travel company specializing in tailor-made journeys across Spain and Portugal, where I deepened my expertise in crafting personalized itineraries. I also had the opportunity to work regularly from the Porto office, which allowed me to get to know Portugal firsthand.
Working in travel is a natural fit for me, as I genuinely enjoy helping travelers discover the places and experiences I’ve come to know and love throughout Spain and Portugal
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Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"On a trip to the Douro Valley in Portugal we visited a family run winery and were given a tour by the owner. We visited the cellars and he showed us some barrels of white port wine at the back that his grandfather had made in 1973. This wine is not for sale but he climbed behind the barrels to siphon off some for all of us to taste. It was so special to taste something that is a living history of the winery, that so few people get to experience! And it was delicious! "
Janelle's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Explore northern Spain's highlights with a side trip to Barcelona on this two-week luxury tour. Exclusive adventures include VIP seats to a Real Madrid soccer match, a sunrise...
This 10-day itinerary immerses you in the drama, romance, and flavor of northern Portugal. Bookend your trip with time in Porto, where you'll embark on delicious culinary tours...
This exciting two-week itinerary combines cosmopolitan cities, medieval architecture, and spectacular beaches for a Portuguese trip of a lifetime. After exploring Lisbon with a...
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries
Discover the highlights of Andalusia, from the Mediterranean coast in Málaga to the Atlantic coast in Cádiz. On this eight-day self-drive tour, you'll enjoy whitewashed villages...
Escape to the coast on this gorgeous 10-day exploration that includes ample time in Porto and Lisbon and stops through charming seafaring towns with fantastic beaches, delicious...
