DMC in Focus: The Real Thing
In 2013, Gloria Pou co-founded The Real Thing and has been curating authentic, bespoke trips around Spain and Portugal ever since. Chatting with Gloria, she shares all of her best tips and quintessential experiences for the perfect holiday in these spectacular Southern European destinations.
The Real Thing specialises in creating creative, authentic experiences for your clients- what is your favourite experience and why?
My favourite travel experiences are always centred around truly connecting with the very essence of the destination in the most authentic way possible. One recent favourite was a trip to a traditional Sevillian embroidery workshop, only accessible to our guests through our relationship with the owner himself. This intimate atelier preserves centuries-old techniques through an artisanal approach, crafting intricate religious and civil designs for institutions across Spain. Guided by the atelier craftsmen, our guests enjoyed a rare opportunity to delve into the rich history of this ancient art form and witness its delicate craftsmanship up close.
Another experience that I still think about was an unforgettable sensory experience, a wine and flower pairing with a world-renowned Botanist at a three Michelin-starred restaurant here in Spain. Our guests indulged in an intimate celebration of nature, gastronomy and art - a fusion of Catalan coastal beauty and culinary innovation.
If you were spending three weeks across Spain and Portugal for the first time, what would you prioritise to see and why?
For someone visiting Spain and Portugal for the first time, I’d recommend a route that offers a broad overview of both countries. Start in Barcelona, take the high-speed train to Madrid, then head south through Andalusia, stopping in Seville, Córdoba, Ronda, and Granada and cross into Portugal via the Algarve. From there, travel up to Lisbon, explore Alentejo, the Douro Valley, and finish in Porto. The cultural, culinary, and wine-related differences between these regions are so striking, it truly feels like discovering several countries within each one. And in each destination, visit the major monuments, but always seek out the hidden gems and connect with the country through its food and wine.
For clients who have seen the big sights, what are your top recommendations for new and off-the-beaten-track experiences?
I always recommend spending time in lesser-known but incredibly charming areas—our hidden gems. The Costa Brava, just north of Barcelona; Extremadura, the natural bridge between Portugal and Spain; or the inland Douro in Portugal, still a well-kept secret and an authentic treasure.
How have your experiences in the art world shaped your views on building excellent journeys through Spain and Portugal?
I believe that my background and experience in the art world, along with my business partner Marta Muñoz Recarte, deeply influence how we design our trips. We always focus on knowledge, creativity, and—above all—profound respect for local culture. We love sharing the network we’ve built over the years with our travellers, giving them a chance to truly experience Spain and Portugal the same way we feel it.
Tell us about your favourite hotel and why it is so special?
I’ve just returned from visiting hotels in Mallorca and I couldn’t be more enchanted by the island. I fell completely in love with Son Brull, a small Relais & Châteaux surrounded by vineyards. It’s exquisitely decorated and blends tradition with contemporary elegance in a truly refined way, with impeccable service.
