Matthew Hulland after hiking to La Pena de Francia in the the Sierra Francia mountains

Well This Is Awkward

So, the internet has these unwritten rules, right? And apparently, one of them dictates I need an “About Me” page. Well, here goes my attempt at it, as much as I hate this kind of thing.

If you had told me years ago that I’d end up living in Spain, I’d probably have been (mildly interested), but there are many other places that would have topped the list. Funny how life takes you places you never planned or thought you’d go.

But now I am here, I can’t think of anywhere else I’d want to call home. It all started when love (what else?) pulled me from my comfort zone in the UK to the vibrant heart of Spain, Madrid.

How I got here

Years ago when I was in my early 20’s I first met Raquel when we worked together in a central London hotel. I was a young lad serving up plates in a dining room and she was an elegant Spanish teacher. Nothing happened between us back then, but fast forward 15 years and we met again during one of my random weekend jaunts.

This time, the sparks flew and within a year we made Madrid our home. Within 2 we were married and now 8 years on we have 2 little ones keeping us very busy. Moving here wasn’t just a change of address; it was the beginning of an adventure of a lifetime.

Raquel and myself in the Cactus Garden in Lanzarote

But why should you trust me as your guide through Spain?

Before settling in Spain, I was fortunate to travel across more than 50 countries. Some of my favorite areas have been East Africa and Southeast Asia, Cambodia was a truly special experience where I met Jimmy and his school projects.

Throughout these travels I collected stories, experiences, and wonderful friends that fill the digital pages of my other project, The Travel Blogs. I have also lived in a few different places including the Florida Keys, Colorado, London, and now Madrid. All of this has enriched my understanding of what it means to truly explore and connect with a place.

On top of that, I have nearly two decades of experience in the travel and hospitality industry and a WSET level 3 advanced qualification in wine under my belt. Hence every trip we make will involve a vineyard visit, or at least a few bottles of the local vintage to take home.

While not working my full-time job, I try to fill my days with explorations and discoveries, from bustling cities to the timeless villages that Spain generously offers. Each journey is an opportunity to deepen my understanding of this country’s rich culture, history, and architecture. And yes, this usually involves trying to convince my kids that not every adventure needs to involve dinosaurs.

But why should you trust me as your guide through Spain?

Before settling in Spain, I was fortunate to travel across more than 50 countries. Some of my favorite areas have been East Africa and Southeast Asia, Cambodia was a truly special experience where I met Jimmy and his school projects.

Throughout these travels I collected stories, experiences, and wonderful friends that fill the digital pages of my other project, The Travel Blogs. I have also lived in a few different places including the Florida Keys, Colorado, London, and now Madrid. All of this has enriched my understanding of what it means to truly explore and connect with a place.

On top of that, I have nearly two decades of experience in the travel and hospitality industry and a WSET level 3 advanced qualification in wine under my belt. Hence every trip we make will involve a vineyard visit, or at least a few bottles of the local vintage to take home.

While not working my full-time job, I try to fill my days with explorations and discoveries, from bustling cities to the timeless villages that Spain generously offers. Each journey is an opportunity to deepen my understanding of this country’s rich culture, history, and architecture. And yes, this usually involves trying to convince my kids that not every adventure needs to involve dinosaurs.

What you will find

As you may expect, my travel experiences have evolved from solo jaunts to adventures that cater to the whims of Javier and Emma, my two young explorers. I try to bring genuine passion and curiosity to my site.

My commitment to sharing not just the well-trodden paths but the hidden gems of Spain is what sets Loving Spain Life apart. It’s about showcasing the country through the eyes of someone who never planned to fall in love with it but did, deeply and irrevocably.

So, if you’re looking for a guide that combines expertise with a sprinkle of humor, and the occasional dinosaur, you’re in the right place. Let’s embark on this journey together, exploring the heart and soul of Spain, one adventure at a time. And who knows? You might just find yourself planning a visit to a dinosaur park in the middle of Spain, because, well, family travel.

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