After a 3-month hiatus, it looks like FAMs for travel advisors are starting to make a comeback. With Spain reopening its borders to European Union nations and optimism growing for international tourism this summer, Spanish tour specialist Hidden in Spain has set the dates for its exclusive 7-night travel agent FAM in Northern Spain for Sept. 20 – 27, 2020.
When asked if North American travelers can participate in this FAM trip, Hidden Spain replied that the FAM is open to U.S. agents, though the E.U. nations are still hesitating about allowing travelers from the U.S. “We recommend that agents contact Hidden in Spain to discuss their options, as the situation is fluid. We understand that some E.U. nations don’t yet ‘officially’ accept U.S. visitors, though they consider them on an unofficial basis and with some restrictions,” says Anthony Diaz with Hidden Spain. Adding that, “Agents aren’t ‘regular’ tourists, so there may be some flexibility—but, again, it’s best for the agent to discuss their options with Hidden in Spain first.”
The FAM will introduce travel agents to some of Spain’s most popular attractions that reflect the history, culture, architecture, and gastronomy of the region. Health precautions will be taken according to government policies in transportation, activities and accommodations.
Hidden in Spain’s FAM in Northern Spain will originate in Santander, the capital of Cantabria, from which guests will travel to Llanes, a small fishing village in Asturias. Along the way agents will explore several prehistoric caves and enjoy a brief visit to Santillana Del Mar, a town known for its mix of Romanesque, medieval and Renaissance architecture. Agents will also tour the 19th-century Gaudí-designed El Capricho chalet in Comillas and other attractions.
Other itinerary highlights include a guided tour of Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, and a visit to the coastal city of Gijon, where Gijon Tourism will host agents for dinner at a Michelin starred restaurant, a traditional dinner at a cider house restaurant, and free lunch as part of a bar-hopping experience in the Old Town. Agents will also enjoy a gentle hike in the Picos de Europa, a national park that offers some of Spain’s finest walking opportunities. Advisors will also ride the furnicular, a cable car in the village of Fuente Dé. On a visit to the old quarter of San Sebastian, they will travel from bar to bar, drinking beer and wine and tasting the traditional small snacks—or pintxos—they serve. The FAM includes a wine tasting excursion, an additional dinner at a Michelin starred restaurant, and a visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, where the tour ends.
“Hidden in Spain explores the great scenery, beautiful coastal and inland villages, superb food and wine, and natural landscape that make this region of Northern Spain one of the most beautiful regions of the country,” said Luis Fernandez de Vega, founder of Hidden in Spain in a press statement. “Agents can also expect a number of surprises and special bonuses that will add an extra level of excitement to the FAM!”
Rates are $2,342 pp dbl, and space is limited. There is a supplement for single occupancy. Price includes accommodations in 3- and 4-star boutique hotels, domestic transportation, guided tours, admission fees per itinerary, and some meals. It also includes all taxes and fees. For additional information, pricing and complete itinerary, contact [email protected] or visit hiddeninspain.com/fam-trip-travel-agents-spring-2020.
