I’ve been studying Spanish since I was 14, so when the opportunity to study abroad during college arose, Spain was a natural choice for me. From the moment I arrived in Madrid, I was captivated by the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, architecture, food, and art.
Madrid was the perfect base for exploring the diverse regions and islands in Spain and neighboring Portugal, and eventually destinations farther afield, across Egypt and the Middle East. Along the way, I fell in love with the breathtaking landscapes, distinctive cuisines, and deeply rooted traditions that make each place so unique.
While Madrid will always be my second home, living abroad taught me that what I love most is discovering new destinations, immersing myself in different cultures and languages, and helping others experience them in a meaningful way. I’m passionate about crafting thoughtful, personalized journeys, and I'm so excited about planning your next unforgettable trip.
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Q&A with Erika
Which book, film or artwork captures Spain the most?
Joaquin Sorolla, known for painting Spanish landscapes and portraits, is a name that immediately comes to mind for me. I especially love Sorolla’s “Two Sisters, Valencia” in which two girls, dressed in traditional Valencian attire, play on a beach under the bright Mediterranean sun. This, and Sorolla’s other paintings, provide an artistic insight into the country’s vibrant landscapes and touch on themes of light, happiness, and community. Viewing and analyzing Sorolla’s work in my college Spanish classes helped spur my excitement to see Spain — and the Sorolla Museum in Madrid was one of my favorite stops.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
I’ve always been fascinated by the pyramids and Sphinx of Giza, so visiting them for the first time was a vivid and unforgettable experience for me. The pyramids are so massive that they can be seen from rooftops across Cairo, but approaching them by golf cart and seeing them grow larger and larger as they loomed over me was surreal. I even had the opportunity to climb inside the Great Pyramid and visit the Sphinx up close. These historic landmarks were far more beautiful and inspiring in person than in the photos I’d admired online for years. Altogether, my first day in Giza was the most memorable and breathtaking travel day I’ve ever had.
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
Pica-pau is my go-to dish in Portugal. Pica-pau means woodpecker in Portuguese, but the dish’s name refers to the way it is eaten: by pecking pieces of meat with your fork. Pica-pau can be made with beef, pork, or fish in a garlic and pickle sauce, served with a generous helping of bread on the side. I tried a different variation of pica-pau in every city I went to in Portugal, and I was never disappointed. I loved the light and salty taste, and it’s a great dish for sharing.