My passion for exploration began at a young age, when my mom gave me the freedom to ride my bike a few blocks from our home in Upstate New York, on my own. That taste of independence sparked a lifelong curiosity. Over the years, those short rides turned into journeys that have taken me to rainforests, winding streets, local pubs, vibrant festivals, and ancient ruins across the globe.
One chapter stands out above the rest: the years I spent in my twenties working as a teacher in Spain, and I was lucky enough to call Madrid my home. Life on the Iberian Peninsula left a lasting impression on me. I felt an immediate connection to the warm, social culture of Spain and Portugal. Immersing myself in the cities, food, traditions, and history came naturally as I worked alongside Madrileños and seized every opportunity to discover someplace new.
From the dramatic sedimentary cliffs of the Algarve to the whimsical genius of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, the Iberian Peninsula is a trove of wonders both natural and man-made. I’m thrilled to draw on my own experiences in this region and use my expertise to guide those who want to travel beyond the guidebook.
Start planning your tailor-made trip with Bruce
-
617-223-4521617-223-4390
- Make an inquiry
Q&A with Bruce
What’s the best local dish you’ve ever tasted?
The best local dish I ever had was one made by a friend. Just steps from my first apartment in Madrid was a cozy tavern I visited several times a week, alone or with friends. Over time, I got to know the owner, Javier a funny, warm, welcoming soul who eventually met all my friends and family I brought to my favorite spot. The tavern’s signature tapa was las croquetas de jamón, and I must have eaten hundreds during my time there. But these weren’t just any croquetas. Of course, they tasted delicious, with their golden, crispy breading and creamy béchamel center studded with savory bits of jamón that melted in your mouth, but these were more than just a quick bite. They were a taste of belonging, made by someone who helped Madrid feel like home.
Where would you love to travel next?
Bhutan has been a country on my mind for a long time now. Its untouched landscapes and dramatic mountain views, paired with a rich spiritual and cultural heritage, make it feel like one of the most fascinating and beautiful places on Earth. It’s a country where nature and mindfulness intertwine, and one that I’d love to see.
What was you most vivid travel moment?
I was at La Feria del Caballo in Jerez de la Frontera, and it felt like everything I loved in Spain in one unforgettable moment. Everywhere I turned, families and friends gathered over endless food, drinks, and music. By day, magnificent horses paraded through the streets; by night, a canopy of dazzling lights stretched for miles, keeping the celebration alive well past sunset.