When you explore São Paulo with Ana Paula, you're not just seeing the city—you’re experiencing it the way locals do. Born and raised in Brazil, Ana spent several years living abroad before returning to the city she calls home. Now, as a Lokafyer, she brings her love of culture, connection, and storytelling to every tour. From iconic landmarks to unexpected moments of joy, Ana shares a São Paulo that most travelers never get to see.
About Me
Hello Lokafyers, my name is Ana and I’ve been working as a Lokafyer for a few months now—and I’ve been loving every moment of it!
I spent several years living in Ireland, where I had the chance to study at University College Cork (UCC) and experience a mix of cultures and nationalities. That time abroad really opened my eyes to how meaningful cross-cultural connections can be. Becoming a Lokafyer has been a natural way for me to continue meeting people from all over the world and sharing my own culture in return.
Today, I live in São Paulo City, where I’ve spent over 20 years of my life. It’s the largest city in Latin America and a place I’m proud to call home.
Why São Paulo Is Worth Visiting
A lot of travelers tend to skip São Paulo, seeing it as just a busy, skyscraper-filled megacity—but they’re missing out! This city has so much to offer, and the fact that it's a bit under the radar makes it even better.
From world-class museums and lush parks to historic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods, São Paulo is bursting with culture and character. Some of my personal favorite spots include:
- Ibirapuera Park – perfect for a relaxed stroll or a picnic
- Paulista Avenue – full of energy, shops, and street life
- Liberdade District – the heart of Japanese-Brazilian culture
- MASP & Pinacoteca – must-visit art museums that showcase both Brazilian and international artists
Whether you're into history, food, art, or just exploring a new neighborhood, São Paulo has something for you. I love showing travelers around and helping them discover all the richness this city has to offer.
A Tour to Remember: My Most Exceptional Experience
One of my favorite tours so far was with a lovely couple who were visiting the city for the first time. We met right on time at our meeting point and started the tour with a great conversation as we walked through a well-known park in São Paulo.
From there, we headed to the São Paulo Municipal Theater—a stunning building inspired by the Paris Opera, opened in 1911. The couple was fascinated by the architecture, and we took lots of pictures outside.
Next, we visited Viaduto do Chá, the first viaduct ever built in the city, dating back to 1892. Standing there, in the heart of the Anhangabaú Valley, they really got a sense of the city’s history and energy.
One of the highlights of the day was our stop at the Banco do Brasil Cultural Center, where there was a temporary exhibition happening. What made it extra special was that the staff member giving us the explanation was deaf. He used Brazilian Sign Language to communicate, while his interpreter translated into Portuguese—and I translated that into English for the couple.
It was this beautiful moment of connection across languages and abilities. The travelers loved it, and so did I. It reminded me of why I do this work: to create real, human experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist route.
Why I Love Being a Lokafyer
Being a Lokafyer means I get to share my love for São Paulo while also learning from the people I meet. Every tour is unique, and every traveler brings something new to the experience. It’s a two-way exchange—and that’s what makes it so special.
Ready to Discover São Paulo with Ana Paula?
With her passion for people and deep roots in São Paulo, Ana creates more than just walking tours—she creates meaningful connections. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking to see the city from a fresh perspective, a tour with Ana is full of warmth, discovery, and local charm.
Book a walk with Ana Paula and uncover the heart of São Paulo—one story, one street, one hidden gem at a time.
Enjoyed this article?
