For Blanca, being a Lokafyer isn't just a role—it’s in her DNA. Born into a family that welcomed travelers and relatives from around the world, Blanca grew up sharing her love for Cádiz from a young age. Whether wandering through ancient alleyways or soaking up sea breezes on the promenade, she brings travelers into her world with warmth, authenticity, and an infectious passion for her city.
About Me
Tell us a bit about yourself. What inspired you to become a Lokafyer?
Actually, I've been a Lokafyer all my life! My whole family is from abroad and since I was a child, every time my aunts, uncles, cousins or friends visited us, I would go with them to get to know the city, its customs, its gastronomy...
There is nothing I like more than walking around Cádiz with someone who is enjoying it for the first time.
What do you love most about the city you guide in?
Cadiz has an exciting history and its identity is forged by the legacy left by all the civilisations that settled here. The character of its people has a lot to do with this: friendly to the traveller, proud of their land and culture, passionate about their traditions and very authentic.
Can you share a personal story about what led you to live in your current city?
My earliest memories are of Playa de la Victoria in Cádiz, where my parents used to relax every summer. They loved it! And when I was just 5 years old, we came to live here, where I grew up, studied, and started my own family, with a Cádiz native who loved his homeland.
My Lokafy Experience
Can you share a memorable experience or moment from one of your tours?
I have a special memory of my first tour in English. Ellen and her husband immediately instilled self-confidence in me, and everything went smoothly.
In addition to learning about the city's history, they showed interest in nature and botany, which led us to walk from one point of interest to another, along promenades and parks that travelers don't usually visit. I felt very comfortable, as if I were taking a walk with two friends.
What do you think makes a tour truly exceptional?
In my opinion, getting to know a place with one of its inhabitants makes the difference and allows travelers to leave with the feeling that their photos have soul.
How do you prepare for your tours to ensure they are unique and engaging for travelers?
I always contact travelers a few days in advance to ask how long they'll be in the city, what they'll be visiting before meeting me, what their expectations are... and then decide on a route that allows them to spend their time on things they're really interested in seeing.
What is your favorite part of being a Lokafyer?
Without a doubt, seeing that the passion for travel that I share with visitors makes people tolerant, curious, respectful and happy.
Have you learned anything surprising or unexpected from the travelers you've guided?
Yes! While preparing my latest guided tour, I discovered a strong connection between Cadiz and some North American states that few residents of either side know about. The world seems smaller when I share knowledge and discover things in common with travelers!
Can you describe a challenging situation you encountered during a tour and how you handled it?
I hosted an elderly traveler arriving alone on a cruise ship, who had contacted Lokafy to feel supported in the city, doing everyday things like going to the pharmacy, the market, taking a walk around the city and the port... It wasn't difficult at all, but it was unexpected and different.
What feedback from travelers has been the most rewarding or impactful for you?
Several travelers have told me that I inspire a passion for my city and that they've fallen in love with Cádiz. "You're blessed to live here," one of them told me recently.
Local Insights
What local hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path spots do you love to share with travelers?
I love peeking into the beautiful Andalusian patios of the homes we pass along the way. I also enjoy showing them the panoramic views of the city and its viewing towers from some rooftops that aren't tourist destinations.
Can you describe your favorite neighborhood and why you love it?
The Pópulo neighborhood, between Town Hall Square and the Cathedral. Some people pass it by without realizing that it houses the oldest Roman theater in history that can be visited and one of the most beautiful palaces in the city. The medieval wall is also visible in its bars, shops, churches, and homes.
Do you have any favorite local traditions or events that you recommend to visitors?
I'm passionate about the Cádiz Carnival and I love sharing it with visitors by visiting the Falla Theater square or the museum located in the Casa de los Marqueses de Recaño.
And the food, of course! If travelers have time to try some shrimp tortillas in the Barrio de la Viña, there's no better way to end a visit to the city center.
Tips and Advice
How do you tailor your tours to cater to different types of travelers (e.g., families, solo travelers, couples)?
I always offer to meet them wherever is most convenient for them. I adapt to their pace and interests during the visit. We take breaks if necessary without taking away from the tour. I offer to advise them on anything they need, whether they come alone or in a group.
What advice would you give to new Lokafyers to help them deliver exceptional experiences?
My main advice is for the Lokafyer to convey how much they love and know their city, focusing more on the essence of what they're showing than on information that can be found in other resources. It's important to listen and discover travelers' interests, both before and during the visit, and to be flexible when planning changes are necessary.
Do you have any tips for visitors on how to make the most of their trip?
Obviously, enjoy your visit accompanied by a Lokafyer, who will be able to show you the most interesting aspects of the place in the time you have available. It's also important to provide details about your origin, the reason for your trip, your interests, etc. before the meet, so the guide can plan your route with all of this in mind.
Closing Thought:
From peeking into secret patios to sharing shrimp tortillas in the Barrio de la Viña, Blanca doesn’t just guide tours—she invites you into her Cádiz. Her tours are deeply personal, shaped by curiosity, history, and human connection. If you're ever in Cádiz, there's no better way to experience the city than through the eyes of someone who truly lives and breathes it. As Blanca says, "The world seems smaller when I discover things in common with travelers."
Thank you for your interest. I look forward to seeing you in Cádiz!
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