John

“TRAVEL IS THE ONLY THING YOU BUY THAT MAKES YOU RICHER” –Anonymous

I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy a lifetime of travel. As a guide/host in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, as a speaker, influencer, mentor, successful entrepreneur, and President/CEO of a global luxury travel brand, I’ve designed one-of-a-kind trips for over 30 years. 

My passion for travel–particularly experiential travel that includes diverse cultures, fantastic guides, accommodations, and adventure–is as potent as when I started out. I’ve loved every step of this incredible journey and want to share it whenever possible. 

I’ve experienced the travel industry from all sides, established what works, what doesn’t and made deep, lasting connections. I’ve seen a huge shift in the service culture (not for the better). It’s people, not corporations that make travel rewarding. I believe small, owner-run businesses with serious expertise make the best travel companies. With The Spence Connection, I’m going back to my roots as an avid traveler connecting enthusiastic guests with the world’s best experts.

Travel Ethos

I believe in the value of authentic cultural experiences. That might be an evening cooking and eating at a private dining club in Spain, walking with Kalahari bushmen in Botswana, saki tasting in Kyoto, Japan, or exploring Peru’s rainforest with a local researcher.

These personal interactions provide insight into how people live and add a human element to trips. 

Once I’ve had a chance to get to know you and your fellow travelers–over a video call or face-to-face during a home visit–I’ll suggest a range of experiences, from the educational to the poignant, that will get you up close and personal with locals and give you a deeper appreciation for their way of life.

Favorite Travel Experiences

I’ve had more than my fair share of adventures, but a few unforgettable experiences stand head and shoulders above the rest.

  • Hiking and sea kayaking, New Zealand

  • Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

  • Flying along the remote Skeleton Coast, Namibia

  • Skiing across Europe

  • Snorkeling with whale sharks, Mexico

  • Cooking and hiking in San Sebastián, Spain

  • Exploring Iceland

  • Wedding anniversary self-drive through Southern Africa

  • Barbara W, Del Mar, USA

    “We wanted to eat our way through the Basque region, and voila! John found us the tiny bars with the best pintxos. John knew what we wanted and needed better than we did. We will never do another trip without his help. He is the best resource in the travel industry today.”

  • Lisa T, San Diego, USA

    “John’s become our go-to person for booking travel worldwide, which has improved exponentially because of his on-the-ground relationships and decades of experience”

  • Philly M, San Diego, USA

    “Working on a journey with John is always enjoyable! Having someone who’s an expert in planning makes the entire process smooth and truly enhances the experience. It is great to have someone who understands our vision, ensures every detail is in place, and makes the planning process relatively relaxing.”

Need inspiration?