Marja, affectionately nicknamed “Marjaja” by her friends for her infectious laughter and ever-present smile, is a Mexican native who has called Toronto home for the past six and a half years. With a passion for travel, photography, and connecting with people from all walks of life, Marja brings a unique blend of adventure, warmth, and enthusiasm to her tours. Her journey to becoming a Lokafyer is a story of unexpected turns, heartfelt connections, and a deep love for showing others the beauty of the city that captured her heart.
How Did You Discover Lokafy?
"My passion for travel began when I was 15. I grew up in Taxco, a beautiful colonial city in Mexico that is popular with tourists. I always dreamed of being a tour guide in Taxco, showing people its silver jewelry markets, stunning church, grottos, and festivals. But life took me on a different path, and I never got the chance—until I moved to Toronto.
One day, a friend was looking for work, and in the process of helping her, I ended up learning about Lokafy. She mentioned a guy who was a tour guide and looking for someone who spoke English. I called him, and he told me about Lokafy. That’s how I connected with Evelyn, went through the interview, and became a Lokafyer. It felt like fate—fulfilling my dream of becoming a tour guide, but now in the city I didn’t even plan to visit but have come to love!"
The Beauty of Toronto Through Marja’s Eyes
"The magic of Toronto lies in its diversity. As you walk down the streets, you hear countless languages and see people from different nationalities blending seamlessly with the locals. It’s a multicultural and cosmopolitan city that never fails to surprise you.
I love the mix of modern glass buildings reflecting the night lights and the older architecture scattered throughout the city. Toronto offers so much—cultural events, art galleries, restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, and festivals that fill the streets with life. No matter the season, there’s always something to do. In summer, the city is vibrant and full of outdoor activities. In the fall, the trees burst into colors of red, orange, and yellow. Even in winter, the snow-covered landscape has a serene beauty, and there are plenty of indoor events to enjoy."
A Journey from Mexico to Canada
"Toronto wasn’t even on my radar when I started traveling. In fact, I had no interest in visiting Canada at all. Two friends of mine wanted to visit, and it took them three months to convince me to join them on a trip to Toronto in April 2018. I wasn’t thrilled about the idea, but once I got here, things changed.
Despite the cold and bare trees, I started to appreciate the city’s beauty, culture, and people. I got a job, made friends, and found myself staying longer than I ever expected. My friends eventually returned to Mexico, but I stayed. It’s been six years now, and I’m about to apply for Canadian citizenship. It’s amazing how life takes you where you least expect, and now Canada has truly become my home."
Memorable Moments as a Lokafyer
"Every tour leaves an impact on me, but one that stands out was with a couple and their 21-year-old daughter, who had the mentality of a 9-11-year-old due to a condition she has. From the moment I met her, she stole my heart. She told me about her life, her love for her unicorn Crocs, and invited me to her home, saying, 'When you visit me, I’ll give you my unicorn Crocs, and we can swing on the beach and watch the sunset together.'
At the end of the tour, she didn’t want me to leave. She asked her parents if I could come with them, and it was so touching. These are the moments that make being a Lokafyer so special—the connections you make and the impact you leave on people’s lives."
What Makes Marja’s Tours Exceptional?
"My tours are all about creating a personalized and memorable experience. I always ask travelers beforehand about their interests, any specific places they want to visit, or things they need to do. This helps me tailor the tour to their needs and ensure they get the most out of their time.
Having a positive attitude, being patient, kind, and empathetic, and of course, smiling throughout the tour are key to making my guests feel comfortable. I also make sure to plan well, confirming the details with them before the tour and reading up on interesting facts about Toronto so I can share fresh information. No two tours are ever the same, and that’s what makes each one exciting!"
Connecting with Travelers: A Key to Success
"One of the most challenging tours I’ve had was with a grandmother, Elva, and her granddaughter, Key. Elva was in a bad mood when we started the tour, complaining about the rain, Uber prices, and even saying, 'This is our first and last time in Toronto.' I could feel their stress, but I stayed positive, and slowly, as we started exploring the city, things changed. Elva started taking photos and smiling, and both she and Key opened up to me.
Halfway through the tour, I realized the source of Elva’s stress—she had forgotten her passport in Panama and was anxiously waiting for it to arrive via DHL. I helped her call the DHL office, and although there were some hiccups, we eventually found a solution. By the end of the day, they were laughing and joking, and they left Toronto with a smile on their faces. It was a reminder of how important empathy and flexibility are in this job."
Why Marja Loves Being a Lokafyer
"My favorite part of being a Lokafyer is connecting with people from all over the world, hearing their stories, and showing them the heart of Toronto. It’s not just about the places we visit; it’s about the people we meet and the bonds we form. I love being able to share my city with others and give them experiences they’ll remember forever.
I’ve even had travelers who I stayed in touch with after the tour. One couple from Spain told me about their dream of visiting Machu Picchu. I shared my experience hiking the Inca Trail, and months later, they sent me a message saying they’d booked the trip. It made me so happy to know that my stories and encouragement helped them fulfill a dream."
Marja’s Hidden Gems in Toronto
"When I guide tours, I love taking people to places that aren’t on the usual tourist route, like St. Michael's Cathedral or the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, where Queen Elizabeth II once stayed. The stunning interiors always leave travelers in awe, and I love seeing their faces light up with excitement.
I also recommend visiting Black Creek Pioneer Village, an open-air museum that recreates life in 19th-century Ontario. It’s like stepping back in time, and it’s perfect for families and history lovers."
Advice for New Lokafyers
"To new Lokafyers, my advice is to come prepared. Study the city’s history, culture, and attractions, and find hidden gems that will surprise travelers. Be flexible during the tours, adapt to your guests' interests, and most importantly, always bring your best attitude. Treat every tour like you’re showing your best friend around the city for the first time, and you’ll create unforgettable experiences."
Marja’s warm personality, love for adventure, and passion for connecting with people make her an exceptional Lokafyer. Whether it’s her local insights, the way she personalizes each tour, or her infectious positivity, Marja ensures that every traveler she meets leaves Toronto with a smile—and often, a new friend.
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