Mayana Voyage

06/12/2024

Discover Lyon 🇫🇷 through its iconic sights! 🌟

🌟You don't know what to do in Lyon with your family? There is so much to see !

1. Explore Vieux Lyon: Wander through the medieval streets and marvel at the stunning architecture.

2. Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Take the funicular for panoramic views of the city.

3. Stroll through Parc de la Tête d'Or: Enjoy a picnic in one of France’s largest urban parks and zoo(and free)

4. Indulge at Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse: A must-visit for food lovers. I will share more about this!

5. Visit Croix-Rousse neighborhood.

6. Walk around Place Bellecour: One of Europe’s largest open squares. And continue walking on Rue de la Republique for some shopping

7. Discover the Traboules of Vieux Lyon: Hidden passageways full of history.

8. Take a wine tasting tour: Explore the Rhône Valley’s finest wines.

9. Eat at a traditional bouchon: Savor authentic Lyonnaise cuisine.

10. Explore the Confluence District, mix of modern architecture and green spaces. There is an aquarium there also.

11. Enjoy the Fête des Lumières: Lyon’s magical Festival of Lights on December 8

12. Hang out at Place des Terreaux: Admire the Bartholdi Fountain and the beautiful architecture around this lively square.

13. Shop at La Part-Dieu: Experience one of the largest urban shopping centers in Europe.

👇🏾What's your favorite thing to do what you visit a city in Europe? Share below!

👇🏾Lyon friends and family, anything I am missing?

05/18/2024

🌞🌲 Summer's just around the corner, and if you're planning a trip to Toronto, Canada🇨🇦 and its beautiful surroundings, now is the time to book your family cottage! Also known as a Cabin or Chalet.
Here are my favorite spots for an escape in Ontario:

1. Muskoka
2. Kawartha Lakes
3. Haliburton
4. Georgian Bay
5. Prince Edward County.
6. Niagara on the Lake
7. Blue Mountain

What is your favorite summer espace and adventure?

05/08/2024

Raise your hand if you're guilty of wanting to move to every country you visit! 🙋‍♀️🖐🏾

Who else needs a MAYCation and may (or may not) come back? 🌍✈️ Where would you move to? 👇🏾

04/28/2024

🌍✈️🏨🚗🛳 Are you ready to uncover the secrets of travel loyalty programs? Here's how I make every trip rewarding!

✨️Have you ever wondered how some travellers manage to snag incredible deals? It's all about staying loyal to your favourite airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and car rentals to earn perks! I love rewards points and have been using them for years to travel for free.

✨️Signing up for loyalty programs is completely free! The next time you book a flight with Air France, for example, make sure to sign up for their loyalty program. Whether you're in the air with Emirates or booking a car with Avis, I always make sure to sign up for every program the first time I use them.

✨️I make every booking count by earning points. Aeroplan is my main program (the Air Canada one), and I try to stick to flying with the same airline network called Star Alliance or staying within the same hotel brand (such as Marriott, Sheraton, Westin). The more bookings you make, the more points you earn!

✨️Using your points is easy! You can redeem them for free flights, room upgrades, or even renting that dream car. You can usually redeem them on the program's website or using partner websites. It feels great to travel for free!
But note that you use your points for more than flight as well!

✨️Think loyalty programs are too complicated? Not at all! A little planning goes a long way in leveraging these points for nearly free travel. I have mastered it over the years as a Point Collector.

🟨❤️🤑 Bonus tip: there are additional ways to accumulate and earn reward points without travelling. Use a credit card linked to your loyalty program for daily purchases (I use mine for every purchase, even the smallest amount). Dine at partner restaurants, shop with affiliated brands, participate in special program surveys and events, and even refer friends - all of these actions can top off your points!

👇🏾🖐🏾Who else is maximizing their travel this way? Let's share tips and help everyone travel smarter!

04/17/2024

I completely understand how it must feel to return home after a trip, it's always a mix of emotions. On one hand, you have created unforgettable memories and on the other, you may (or not) be excited to come back to your everyday routine and the comfort of your bed.

To make returning home just as exciting as the adventure, I have some tips that you and your family might find helpful:

🏠Create a Welcome Home Ritual: Establish a fun 'welcome home' tradition that the family can look forward to, such as a special meal or movie night.

🏠Unpacking Surprises: Hide small souvenirs in your luggage so that when you unpack, you find little reminders of your trip (like postcards, Keyckeychainsd fridge magnets).

🏠Post-Trip Album: Relive the memories by making a photo album or scrapbook with your family. We love displaying our travel photos on our Google Hub.

🏠Share the Adventure: Plan a show-and-tell dinner with friends or family where everyone shares stories and photos from the trip. Your kids will love sharing their adventures with their friends.

🏠Rest and Reflect: Schedule a rest day after your return to relax and discuss everyone's favourite moments.

🏠Incorporate New Habits: If you've discovered a new food or game during your travels, incorporate it into your daily routine at home.

🏠Adventure Wall: Dedicate a space in your home where you can display souvenirs, pictures, and maps from your travels.

And perhaps the most exciting one:

🌍Start Dreaming Again: Keep the travel excitement alive by having a family brainstorming session for the next trip.

👇🏾Do you have any return home rituals after your trips or do any of these tips resonate with you? Share your thoughts below.

Remember, it's completely normal to feel a mix of emotions after returning home from a trip, but hopefully, these tips will help make the transition a bit smoother for you and your family.

04/10/2024

If you're planning to visit Dubai, you must explore the Deira Souks! I went there with my family, and we had a blast shopping and exploring the markets. Here's a go-to guide to help you make the most out of your visit:

🌆 What is Deira?
Deira is a neighborhood in the heart of Dubai, where old traditions meet modern city life. You'll love the vibrant energy of this place!

🏺 What are Souks?
Souks are traditional markets or bazaars that offer you an amazing shopping experience, where you can find anything from gold to spices. It's not just shopping; it's a journey!

🚉 How to Get There:
The easiest way to reach Deira's souks is by taking the metro and stopping at Al Ras Metro Station. The subway in Dubai is super clean and safe, so it's a great option. Alternatively, you can also take a Careem or Uber ride.

👛 Cash is King! Bring AED (Dirhams) to get the best deals, and don't be afraid to negotiate prices with vendors.

👟 Comfort is Key! Wear comfortable shoes because there is no dress code. If you have little ones, it's better to use a baby carrier than a stroller, as it's easier to navigate the crowded alleys.

🌟 Must-Visit Souks:
- Gold Souk
- Spice Souk
- Textile Souk
- Perfume Souk

👇🏾 Have you been to a souk before? I have shopped at souks in Morocco, Egypt, and other places, and it's always an incredible experience.

So what are you waiting for? Visit Deira Souks and make unforgettable memories!

03/28/2024

Hanging out at Jumeirah Beach Residence (aka JBR) feels like a mini vacation.🏖🌴

We enjoyed staying in the neighbourhood – everything we needed was just walking distance: the beach, restaurants, and shops. Very family friendly!

The only downside was that the area was extremely busy.

👇🏾🏨 When you travel, do you like to stay in tourist areas or more quiet neighborhoods? Let me know in the comments!



What to do in Dubai | Where to Stay in Dubai | Activities in Dubai | Dubai with Kids | Hotels in Dubai

03/26/2024

Whenever life asks, 'What's next?' the answer is simple: another stamp in the passport!

👇🏾Where are you flying to on your next adventure? 🌎✈️ Let me know in the comments below

🟨 Send it to a friend who is always traveling

quote Travel Inspiration

03/15/2024

It's important for me to stay connected when traveling abroad!🌍

I discovered eSIMs and it has been a life changer. My favorite provide is
I stopped using expensive roaming data and connected to random Wifi networks 😁

🌟With an eSIM, you can easily connect to the internet as soon as you arrive and switch networks effortlessly to avoid unexpected costs.
🌟 You don't have to insert a physical SIM card
🌟You can also find affordable plans to make sure you don't break the bank on data.

Use my code 'SAMIRA6032' to get a great deal on your travel data plans

📝 Save it for a future trip

03/14/2024

🌍Made in Africa 🌍

Bag by 🇳🇪

03/08/2024

Happy International Women's Day to all the amazing ladies out there! 🌍💖 Today's all about celebrating us - the adventurers, the moms making travel a blast for their little ones, and every woman who’s ever dared to dream of new horizons. 🚀👩‍👧‍👦 to a world free of gender bias and stereotypes!

Let’s flood our feed with stories of women who inspire u!

Tag your travel heroine and let’s spread some love and inspiration. Together, we're unstoppable. 💪

03/05/2024

I always have a trip planned or booked 🤣 but I am grateful every day for the privilege to explore the world 🌏✨ Understanding and acknowledging the blessings that make my journeys possible.

What travel moments are you most grateful for? 🌍💖

#

02/28/2024

As we come to the end of Black History Month, let's take a moment to reflect on the journeys that have shaped us, the stories that inspire us, and the futures we're building together.

Stepping into the past at Cape Coast Castle, Ghana 🇬🇭
A poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade's dark past, this UNESCO World Heritage Site once held thousands before they were forced across the Atlantic. Today, it stands as a memorial to resilience and freedom.

Did you get the chance to visit Ghana? It was one of my favorite places to visit!! Let me know in the comments below

02/18/2024

I love my Motherland, Africa 🌍, although the map is missing Madagascar ❤️

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about this beautiful continent. One of my biggest pet peeves is when people say they are going to Africa without specifying which of the 54 countries they are referring to.

Have you had the opportunity to visit any African countries in the past? What were your favourite things about those places? 🥰 let me know in the comments below

02/05/2024

Exploring Atlanta's history and paying tribute to the legendary Martin Luther King! 🙌

My top things to do in Atlanta:
- Visit the Georgia Aquarium and CNN
- Tour the World of Coca-Cola: we enjoyed trying all the different flavors available.
- Walk through the Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Explore the Atlanta History Center
- Go to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site: it was so nice visiting his childhood home!
- Visit the Atlanta Zoo
- Experience the Children's Museum of Atlanta
- Visit Piedmont Park

What's your favorite spot in this vibrant city? Share your thoughts below!

01/29/2024

🌴 Embracing Weekend Vibes at Maliane Lodge Lodge, Adiaké! 🏡✨

Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Adiaké, just a short 2-hour drive from Abidjan, lies this enchanting lodge that's simply a must-visit. 🚗🌅

Surrounded by nature's tranquility and boasting breathtaking views, it is the ultimate weekend escape. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or both, it has it all! 🌿🏞️

And guess what? While we soak in the lodge's charm, the football fever in Africa is on! ⚽🏆 The African Cup of Nations (CAN) is in full swing, and what better place to catch the action than right here at Maliane Lodge? 🌟📺

Picture this: Lounging by the pool, sipping on a refreshing drink, and cheering for your favorite team as they battle it out on the field. It's the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement! 🍹🤩

Book your weekend getaway, catch the CAN matches, and let the beauty of Cote d'Ivoire's coastline captivate your soul. 🌊🌞⚽

Tag your travel buddy and let's make memories in this slice of paradise! 🌴👫🗺️

01/28/2024

Leave only footprints, take only memories. ✨👣 Travel is the art of creating moments that last a lifetime.
Where will your footsteps lead you next? Share with us below

01/24/2024

My top 3 items for travelling with a baby (less than 1 year old)
* UPPAbaby Cruz stroller - I also use the travel bag to prevent damages OR the BabyZen Yoyo when the baby is more than 6 months
* Ergobaby Omni 360 carrier - babies love to sleep and feel close during a trip
*Skip Hop portable change pad - so handy during airplane diaper changes (carries diapers, wipes, hand sanitizer, tissue)

👇🏾What other travel essentials do you use? Let me know in the comments below

📤Save this post and send it to someone who will be travelling soon

01/22/2024

Barcelona: I just love the vibe of this vibrant city🌟🇪🇸
So many things to do:

1. Park Güell – a real-life fairytale for kids (and adults!)
2. Family beach day at Barceloneta – sun, sea, and sandcastles!
3. Discovering history at Sagrada Família – it's like a giant puzzle!
4. Exploring the vibrant La Rambla – street performers, markets
Picasso Museum - for little artists
5. And of course, the Barcelona Zoo – a hit with the little ones!

Now, let's talk food –my favorite part about traveling 😁. Paella + sangria is an amazing combo 🥘🍷

It's a city that captures your heart, one adventure at a time - I could see myself living there 😁😆. 💖🏡

Your turn! Have you been to Barcelona? What was your favourite part?🌍✈️

01/10/2024

✈️ Flying with a baby can be an adventure!

As someone who has travelled with my kids on their first international flight at 3 months old, here are some tips to make the journey smoother:

1. Use a baby carrier through the airport to keep your hands free. My favourite one is the Ergobaby 360, and my babies would always sleep in it.
I also use a stroller. You can either gate-check it at the plane or check it with your luggage. I've tried both options, and it's up to you. My favourite travel stroller for this age is the UPPAbaby Cruz and the basket is large enough to carry other items. If you buy the travel bag you are insured in case of damage.
Also, make sure to get acquainted with airline policies regarding strollers and car seats. I have never used a car seat in an airplane, so it's up to you.

2. Pack smart! Be prepared and bring extra diapers, wipes, formula if bottle feeding, and enough change of clothes for your baby! Make sure to pack extra clothes for the adults as well, as babies can have messes. Pack their favourite blankie or a cherished toy.

3. Feed and pacify your baby during takeoff and landing to keep their tiny ears happy. This can be done by nursing or bottle-feeding, and it can be a game-changer for comfort.

4. Dress smart! Layers are your friend. Plan for changing cabin temperatures by dressing your little one in easily adjustable layers. I use zippers and pyjamas at this age.

5. Entertain quietly. Bring a few small, noise-free toys to keep your baby engaged without disturbing fellow passengers. It's all about the strategic distraction game.

Remember, you've got this! Stay calm, breathe, and know that the flight is just a temporary phase of the adventure. Embrace the journey with patience.

Has this been helpful to you?

01/09/2024

Are you ready to set sail on a family adventure? 🚢👶

Some people say cruising with kids can be a bit of a challenge, but others argue that it's an all-in-one family retreat. What do you think? 🤔

I believe that cruising with young ones is a fantastic way to create lasting memories and explore the world together as a family🌊. It might have its ups and downs, but the joy of seeing your little ones experience the excitement of the open sea is priceless.

👇🏾So what do you think? Share your best and worst experiences of cruising with young kids below. Let's start a conversation and help each other out with some family travel hacks and tips.



Let's set sail! 🌊⚓️

12/28/2023

There are so many places to explore.

Share below the next places you are planning to visit ?

12/26/2023

Hello, Bonjour

🌍 Fun Travel Facts About Me! 🌟

🌅 **Global Upbringing:** Toronto (Canada 🇨🇦)-based tech consultant, raised in Lyon (France 🇫🇷) and Niamey (Niger 🇳🇪), embracing adaptability through living on 3 continents. As a Technology consultant during the day, regular business travel is second nature.

✈️ **Go-To Travel Advisor:** Trusted by friends and family for travel tips, from efficient packing to suggesting amazing destinations. I discovered my passion for trip planning after organizing my destination wedding in Mexico. My ideal vacation involves sunny destinations, vibrant cities, large family-friendly hotels, and indulging in local cuisine, especially desserts.

☕ **Collecting Memories:** Souvenirs are my thing! Mugs and fridge magnets from every trip are my cherished memories.

- **Point Collector Extraordinaire:** A decade of mastering point collection—from loyalty to Aeroplan to credit cards for flights/lounge perks, to Marriott Bonvoy for fabulous free stays!

💻 **Tech-Savvy Traveler:** Google Docs, Sheets, and various apps keep me organized. Overusing Excel for lists is my way of celebrating the smallest milestones.

🗓 **Happiness in Planning:** Planning a trip brings me immense joy, even if unpacking is a different adventure altogether!

📷**Passion for Photography:** Behind or in front of the lens, capturing moments and beauty is my love.

👯‍♀️ **Kids-Friendly Travel:** Proud mom of girls, the name Mayana is inspired by them. I believe that there are a lot of benefits to travelling with kids, even at a young age. But I also enjoy kid-free trips with friends and family.

Now, I assist families with hassle-free international travel experiences as a go-to travel concierge service! 🌍✈️

🛫✨ **Ready for your next adventure?**

12/24/2023

Embarking on enchanting adventures and creating timeless memories at the happiest place on earth—Disneyland Paris! From magical rides to delightful character encounters, every moment is a treasure. 🎢👨‍👩‍👧‍👦✨

12/23/2023

Happy Holiday Season and Merry Christmas my dear travellers. I hope that you are spoiled with lots of travel gifts - vacation and plane tickets :)

🎄

12/22/2023

Who else does this

12/20/2023

With the holiday season, this weekend is set to be one of the airport's busiest days. Here are some tips:

Don't forget to share!

1. 🛫 Plan Ahead: Check-in online to save time, and arrive early to account for long queues.

2. 🎒 Pack Smart: Pack essentials in your carry-on, and label your luggage for easy identification.

3. 🚗 Transportation: Arrange transportation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

4. 📱Stay Informed: Follow your airline on social media for real-time updates on delays or changes.

5. 👉 Follow Signs: Pay attention to airport signs to navigate security, gates, and baggage claim efficiently.

6. 💧 Hydrate: Stay hydrated by bringing an empty water bottle to fill after passing security.

7. 🛑 Security Check: Wear easy-to-remove shoes and avoid metal accessories for a smoother security screening.

8. 🤳 Stay Charged: Charge your devices before you leave and carry a portable charger for backup.

9. 🛍 Duty-Free: If time allows, explore duty-free shops but be mindful of your departure gate.

10. 🕰 Time Management: Allocate extra time for potential delays and long lines during peak travel seasons.

12/17/2023

12/14/2023

12/14/2023

What travel destinations do you have in mind for 2024?