The favourite places of Luis Canuto

Spain Seven Degrees is an exclusive travel agency specialised in gay tours in Spain. Their offering is tailored to the modern gay gent: from a surf camp in the Canary Islands to a yoga and meditation sailing retreat in Ibiza and Formentera. They also provide bespoke trips for special occasions such as a honeymoon, anniversary or birthday celebration. We talk to Luis Canuto, CEO and founder, about some of his favourite places.

Tell us about yourself

I am originally from Valencia in Spain. My first degree was in journalism because I love communication. I have been travelling the world for more than 20 years, and have lived in the US, the UK, Belgium and Australia. My background in Tourism and Marketing has helped me develop the idea of Spain Seven Degrees. Spain has a lot to offer, and I want to make sure that the LGBTQ community can experience the best. In addition to travel, I am passionate about surfing, cooking, visiting music festivals, the beach in summer and the bush in winter.

What makes Spain Seven Degrees special?

We believe that people who take care of both their body and mind are happiest, so we offer our customers experiences to nourish their soul, awaken their spirit and activate their smile. Our specialised tours aim to have our clients learn and meet new people from all over the world in sunny Spain. Our groups are pretty small, and our expertise is in luxury travel. We have experts in every city our costumers visit how can provide an insider perspective and show them all those hidden gems only locals know about, and we offer more than 3,500 experiences to choose from, including food, culture, going out, and adventure.

Why is Spain Seven Degrees so popular with gay travellers?

Although we are a small and humble company based in Spain, we are pride ourselves on being professional, and we look after every single detail to create memories that last a lifetime.

What is your favourite place in the world?

Ibiza. Some people think it is just a party island, but it is also a wild, peaceful and magical place. I also love Melbourne and Byron Bay in Australia, which have the kindest and most polite people in the world, plus fantastic nature, making these cities really special.

The team at Spain Seven Degrees, with Luis on the left

I met a man who told me dozens of different histories about apartheid. I was impressed by his humility and wisdom from the minute he started talking

What is it about travel that you enjoy most?

I love getting lost in an unfamiliar place and meeting locals to learn from. It’s all about respect and curiosity.

What is the best hotel you’ve stayed at?

It depends on the trip. For an urban stay, Axel Hotel Barcelona is my favourite. If it’s relaxation you’re after, and you want to escape the city, Botaniq Hotel Boutique in Mojácar comes highly recommended. And for something truly special, I would suggest Panorama Resort in El Nido in the Philippines.

What does your ideal trip look like?

My ideal trip starts with my best friend by my side. Catch to a new destination with a beach and wilderness. Sleep close to the sea and take a trek into nature during the day. Visit intimate music venues and local restaurants to enjoy a culinary experience and a friendly conversation.

Who is the most interesting person you’ve met while travelling?

Recently I visited a non-profit organisation called Bridges for Music in Langa, one of Cape Town’s townships. These guys are building a music and film school, to provide local children with a better. There, I met a man who told me dozens of different histories about apartheid. I was impressed by his humility and wisdom from the minute he started talking.

Ibiza Clubbing

Balearic Islands

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What are your favourite places in Spain that people need to know about?

Spain has beautiful places to explore; the north and the south are incredibly different. The Basque Country is a must for foodies, and the Pyrenees, both in the north of the country, are perfect for people looking to unplug and do some meditation. Cadiz, in the south, is a paradise for surfers and yogis.

What is your best-kept travel secret?

The hidden beaches of Girona Coast, just one hour north of Barcelona. It boasts a fascinating history, charming villages, pristine coves, and secret beaches with crystal clear water.

Any recommendations for gay travellers?

Follow your dream and follow your heart. Do whatever you feel like doing. And most importantly: come to Spain. We are very open-minded; gay people can get married in our country since 2005. What’s not to like?

Surf Camp in Maspalomas

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