What travel agents should know (and ask)
When planning exceptional trips for discerning clients, Spain promises rich rewards, and a fair few logistical challenges. From navigating regional diversity to securing truly local experiences, a trusted DMC (Destination Management Company) can make the difference between a good trip and an extraordinary one. But not all luxury DMCs in Spain are created equal.
If you’re a travel agent or tour operator outside Spain, here’s what you need to know, and what to ask, before choosing your on-the-ground partner.
What Does a DMC Actually Do?
At its core, a DMC manages the logistics: accommodation, guides, transport, reservations, and local experiences. But a high-quality DMC does far more than coordinate bookings.
They shape the entire flow of a journey; responding to client tastes, adding moments of surprise and delight, managing last-minute changes, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. For agents, this means you’re not just outsourcing logistics, you’re gaining a local creative partner who helps you shine in your client’s eyes.
A good DMC gives you:
- A deep bench of trusted local suppliers
- On-the-ground problem-solving
- Culturally fluent itinerary design
- Insider experiences you can’t find online
In short, the right DMC amplifies your value.
Why work with a DMC in Spain specifically?
Spain is not a single, unified travel experience. Each region has its own flavour, pace, and personality. Andalucía, Galicia, Catalonia and the Basque Country offer vastly different landscapes, dialects, and customs. A local partner is crucial not just for navigating logistics, but for getting the feeling right.
Spain also tends to operate on its own rhythm. Public holidays are frequent and vary by region. Restaurants may open late or close unexpectedly. Navigating all of this from abroad, especially under pressure, is risky without someone local in your corner.
Finally, truly special experiences here aren’t found on Google. Whether it’s a slow-food lunch in a private olive estate, a flamenco evening with local performers, or walking through whitewashed villages few tourists ever see, these are experiences rooted in relationships. Only a local DMC can unlock them.
Five key questions to ask a potential DMC partner
Not sure how to assess a luxury DMC in Spain? Start with these questions:
- What kind of travel do you specialise in?
Make sure their expertise aligns with your clients’ expectations especially for cultural, bespoke, or high-end travel. - How do you build your itineraries?
Are they offering recycled templates or building from scratch based on the client brief? - Can I speak to a past partner?
A reputable DMC should be able to share references or examples of long-standing agent relationships. - Who will be my point of contact before and during the trip?
Consistency and clarity of communication is key. A senior contact who knows the client story from day one is a major asset. - How do you handle the unexpected?
Ask for examples of how they manage last-minute changes, illness, or weather disruptions. Flexibility and calm under pressure are essential.
(Tip: Download our printable checklist “10 Questions to Ask Your DMC” for your next vendor search)
What sets TOMA & COE apart
At TOMA & COE, we offer more than expertly run logistics. What sets us apart is our human touch and passion for the region and its people.
Our network isn’t transactional, it’s built on friendships nurtured over 20 years. We don’t just know the chef; we’ve shared stories at their table. We don’t just hire a guide; we know their family history. This depth of relationship unlocks doors our clients never expect to pass through.
When clients travel with us, they don’t feel like outsiders peering in. They’re welcomed, included, and immersed. From private homes and historic estates to unscripted encounters in olive groves and village markets, we offer access to the real Spain — quietly luxurious and deeply human.
This is what your clients come home talking about. Not the hotel room or the transfer, but how they felt part of something larger.
Common pitfalls when choosing a DMC
Travel agents sometimes get caught out by:
- Focusing solely on price Lower rates can mean a diluted experience, unreliable suppliers, or minimal support. Value is more than a number.
- Assuming all DMCs are the same Some are volume-driven, others specialise in niche markets. Know what you need, and who they really serve.
- Vague promises If a DMC can’t explain how an itinerary is built, who’s delivering it, or what’s included, that’s a red flag.
- Poor communication You need clear, timely responses and transparency throughout. If it’s hard to get answers now, it won’t get easier mid-trip.
Avoiding these pitfalls saves time, money, and reputation.
The Value of Long-Term Relationships
When you find the right DMC, treat them as an extension of your team not just a vendor.
At TOMA & COE, we invest in long-term agent relationships because it makes the travel better. The more we know about your clients — how they like to travel, what excites them, what comforts them — the more magic we can quietly build into each trip.
Over time, we anticipate preferences, speed up planning, and fine-tune details with minimal back-and-forth. This kind of trust pays off in exceptional results.
If you’re looking for a luxury DMC in Spain who understands not just the logistics but the emotion behind great travel, we’d love to connect. Whether you’re planning your first trip here or seeking a long-term partner for tailored, soulful journeys, we’re here.
