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This is honestly my absolute favorite tool for planning my trips. It's practical, visual, and incredibly easy to use. It saves me so much time once I'm there because everything is already organized. On top of that, it allows me to plan my itinerary in advance while having a clear and accessible guide throughout the trip.

🗺️ Before the trip: I plan everything on Google My Maps

Before every trip, I research the places I'd like to visit and pin them directly onto my personalized map. What I love about Google My Maps is that you can organize locations into categories, add color codes, and even customize the icons. The result is something that's highly visual and incredibly easy to use.

To get started, I do my research (blogs, TikTok, Pinterest...) and pin everything that catches my eye: attractions, restaurants, cafés, museums, photo spots, and more.

This step also helps me choose accommodation close to the places I want to visit and identify the neighborhoods that will be most convenient for me. And of course, once I've booked my hotel, I add it to the map too!

For me, this is an essential part of trip planning. Everything is centralized, and I can visualize my itinerary at a glance.

All of my travel maps are available here: MY MAPS TO DOWNLOAD

🌍 During the trip: my map becomes my guide

Once I arrive, my map is already ready to go! All I have to do is enjoy myself and explore the places I've pinned in advance.

As you probably know, I'm a big fan of slow travel. I love taking my time to discover a neighborhood at my own pace, wander through the streets, and soak up the local atmosphere.

Whenever I visit a place I've saved, I always take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area too. And if I'm feeling a little lost or unsure of what to do next, I simply check my map to find a great restaurant, a cozy café, or a spot I discovered through blogs or TikTok.

Another huge advantage is that I continue adding new places in real time as I discover them. If I stumble upon an amazing restaurant or a hidden gem I want to remember, I pin it for future trips or so I can recommend it later.

And here's the best part: Google My Maps can also be used offline, which is incredibly useful when traveling abroad without an internet connection.

🧳 After the trip: my map is still useful

Once the trip is over, I always keep my maps. They become souvenirs, but they're also incredibly helpful if I ever return to the same destination.

It's so convenient to have all my favorite places, hidden gems, and even the spots I didn't have time to visit saved in one place.

I also love sharing them with friends, family, or anyone looking for recommendations for that destination. They're basically my digital travel journals, always ready to be reused.

A few tips for using Google My Maps while traveling 

✅ Use colors to stay organized

Assign a color to each category (attractions, restaurants, cafés, accommodation, etc.). At a glance, you'll immediately know what everything is.

✅ Add descriptions and links

Each pin can include notes, blog links, TikTok videos, opening hours, or anything else you may need. It's incredibly useful once you're on the ground.

✅ Create multiple layers

You can create layers by day, neighborhood, or activity type. It helps structure your trip without turning your map into a mess.

✅ Download maps for offline use

You can access your Google My Maps through the Google Maps app by downloading the area for offline access. This is especially useful when traveling internationally.

✅ Save your favorites after visiting them

Once you've tested a place, make a note of what you liked (or didn't like). It's a great way to remember your experiences and help friends in the future.

✅ Share your map

A simple link is all you need to send your map to someone else. It's perfect for planning group trips or helping a friend organize their stay.

The website : https://www.google.com/intl/fr/maps/about/mymaps/

✉️ Want access to my maps?

I regularly share my Google My Maps alongside my blog articles, so make sure to stay connected!

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MY MAPS

And if you decide to use my travel planning services, I create a fully personalized Google My Maps for every client, complete with must-see attractions, recommended addresses, and all my personal tips for a tailor-made trip. You can find more information right here if you're interested!

Ana from New Escapade 🌍