Ana Gildersleeve

I was born and raised in Valencia, Spain. I started to run track when I was 8 years old, and my childhood dream was to run in the U.S because my favorite long jumper was American. Ten years later, that dream came true.

In 2013, I accepted a scholarship to run track at a Division I school. I ran track for four years while getting a degree and traveling across the country by competing at major track events. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education and a master’s degree in Sports Administration.

While studying abroad, I learned a new language, a new culture, and met wonderful people from around the world who became like family. But most importantly, I learned how to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. It was an experience that I will never forget.

While attending University, I met my husband Matt, an American football coach. We got engaged in 2017 and got married in Spain in 2018. We welcomed our first daughter Mia in 2020 and we are currently expecting our second child!

Since we decided to stay in the U.S, I often travel to Spain to see my family. Most times our American friends tag along, and I absolutely love showing them where I grew up and everything about the Spanish culture.

My goal is for YOU to discover the magic Spain has to offer. You will discover that Spain is home to some of the most stunning architecture in Europe and that Spanish cuisine is one of the best ones in the world. It is said, “Food is to Spain as Picasso is to art”. Let’s not forget about the people. Spanish people are among the happiest in the world! I promise you will feel at home when visiting Spain.

As you continue to explore this website, you will learn many interesting things such as how to tell if you are eating authentic paella, how to order coffee in Spanish, or even how to avoid pickpocketing.

It has been a crazy ride, but it is my crazy ride, and I would not change a thing. This adventure has made me the person I am today.

Bienvenido-Welcome!