If you haven’t heard about our First Choice Insiders programme yet, it’s about time you did. @aleena_rzq is one of the amazing travel creators we’ve partnered with to get you that on-the-ground info and inspo you’re after.
Our Insiders pick the trips they really want to go on and bring all the details back to you – videos, pics and loads of local recs – on social, our website, and you can find their full itineraries right here on Inspire. Go along on these journeys with them, and see what hits the spot for you. They’re all set to be your eyes and ears on the ground and, who knows, maybe they’ll show you a place you never thought you’d pick before.
So, get started and meet our family travel expert, @aleena_rzq…
First of all, tell us a bit about yourself!
I’m Aleena, part-time optometrist, part-time content creator and full-time wife and mummy. I’m in my 30s and wear a lot of hats but love them all. I love getting out and about and can’t think of anything worse than staying in all day.
How many countries have you travelled to so far?
Nine countries so far!
What’s your earliest memory?
My earliest memory is definitely going to Pakistan as a child to visit family. I remember being told by my parents, DO NOT DRINK THE WATER!
Where’s the last place you visited?
We just got back from a city break in Brussels!
What’s your ultimate bucket list destination, and why?
My ultimate destination is definitely South Africa, the full shebang with safaris etc. I’m waiting for my son to be older before we take him so he can really remember it and take it all in.
Is there a destination you love to revisit? Or are you the type of traveller that can’t stand going back to a place you’ve already ticked off your list?
I have actually visited the Seychelles twice and would 100% visit again. It’s made up of so many beautiful islands and so many things to do, you could never take it all in and do everything you wanted in one trip. I recommend this to absolutely everyone who will listen.
How do you approach planning your travels? Are you more spontaneous or do you like to plan things down to the last detail?
I used to be really spontaneous until we started a family and now, we definitely have to plan things!
What’s the number one thing you look for in a destination? Food, sights, culture, or something else?
Firstly, the hotel we’re staying in and secondly the food. Those are the most important things for all of us as a family.
Tell us your biggest travel ick – we’re talking bare feet on the plane, clapping when the plane lands…
I hate it when the passenger next to me on the plane spreads out and takes half of my leg space! It makes me feel ENRAGED.
Is there a travel hack you discovered that changed the game for you?
Check in as much luggage as you can – the less things to carry the better. Keep only the absolute essentials, but ALWAYS carry a change of clothes for you and your child. I learnt this the hard way when Ari threw up on me on the way to the Seychelles and he had lots of spare clothes but I had none…
Tell us about…
… the most beautiful place you’ve visited
Hands down Silhouette Island in the Seychelles. Words cannot describe the beauty of those beaches…
… the most memorable place you’ve visited
We went on a minimoon to Crete in Greece when lockdowns were still in place for many places. It holds a special place in my heart.
… the most surprising place you’ve visited
Lyon in France! I wouldn’t normally have chosen to visit there but my best friend was studying abroad, and it was such a beautiful place with amazing architecture. We took a day trip to Annecy, which was stunning!
If you want to get to know our other Insiders and find out more about the programme, you’ll love our Insiders Hub.
Keep an eye out for the ‘Insider pick’ tag when you’re browsing our best deals and in your holiday search results, too.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Author: @aleena_rzq (she/her)
Last updated: 06/03/2025
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