Seven Super Shots From Andi’s Travels

February 16, 2012

I thoroughly enjoyed writing my ABC’s of Travel, as it allowed me to nostalgically reflect on some beautiful past adventures.  Thus, I could not wait for the next meme to circulate in the travel world and was delighted when Seven Super Shots From My Travels was created, especially since it revolved around photography — a passion of mine that is cultivated more deeply with each passing day.

1. A photo that… takes my breath away:

Florence, Italy

I had goosebumps once I looked into my viewfinder and saw this picture that I had taken in Florence, Italy.  I was leaving San Miniato al Monte and I was overwhelmed with a feeling that I needed to make a quick visit to the adjoining graveyard for a couple of more photos.  I knew that my fellow travelers would be impatiently waiting for me in the bus, but I could not ignore my intuition and I am so thankful that I did not.

2. A photo that… makes me laugh or smile:

Kruger Park, South Africa

Unfortunately, I did not own a decent camera when I went on a journey of a lifetime to Kruger Park in South Africa  Although it is irrelevant, because no matter how good this picture could have been, it will always put the biggest smile on my face.  It was my first time encountering wild elephants (we all know how crazy obsessed I am with the animal) and when I saw this family crossing in front of the jeep that I was in during my safari my heart almost burst from happiness.

3. A photo that… makes me dream:

Buzios, Brasil

A dream sunset in a dream location, how could this photo not cause me to dream?  For several years now I have desired to learn how to sail and to move to Brasil.  When I look at this photo of a sailboat, which to me symbolizes the ultimate in freedom, exploration, and adventure, docked in Buzios Bay, it inspires me to dream big and to finally cross these dreams off of my Bucket List.

4. A photo that… makes me think:

Lhasa, Tibet

When I stepped foot in Tibet for the first time, a place that had consumed my thoughts for over a decade, I truly felt as though I had completed a spiritual pilgrimage, as I have been drawn to Buddhism for as long as I can remember and even majored in Comparative Religious Studies with a focus on women in Buddhism in College.  Seeing these monks adoringly gaze at the Potala Palace, home to the Dalai Lamas over the years, makes me think about grandiose questions such what is the true meaning of life, does karma really exist, and what happens after we die.

5. A photo that… makes my mouth water:

Trancoso, Brasil

You know that a dish has changed you if you find yourself thinking about it every single day and that is exactly what I have been doing since my honeymoon in Trancoso, Brasil almost a year ago.  My husband and I literally ordered this pizza every single day and on the last day we each ordered one for ourselves.  The chef would not tell us how she prepared it other than it had a “secret sauce.”

6. A photo that… tells a story:

La Habana, Cuba

I ilegally sneaked into Cuba for my 25th Birthday and it is one of my greatest moments to date.  Life in La Habana is incredibly difficult for most due to the US embargo.  However despite this, Cubans are amongst the happiest people in the world.  This woman in the photo most likely does not have much, other than her gorgeous smile (and a cohiba) and yet she is happy.  Her picture tells the story of Cuban pride and how it is so infectious that everyone on the island is constantly celebrating the fact that no matter what their economic status is they are and will always be Cuban.

7. A photo that… I am most proud of (aka My National Geographic shot):

Easter Island, Chile

I decided that for my last solo trip as a single woman I would travel somewhere incredibly exotic.  When I discovered that Easter Island, Chile was the most remote island in the world, I knew it was the perfect location for my solo trip.  When I finally got up close and personal with the sacred Moai, I decided that I needed to photograph them in a way that they had never been photographed before, which I believe I accomplished with this shot.

If you have followed My Beautiful Adventures for some time now, I would love to know, did I leave out a certain picture of mine that you feel deserves to be included in this post?

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Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a Chinese Medicine Doctor and Travel Photojournalist in Charlotte, NC. I am also wife to Lucas and mother to Joaquín. Follow us as we explore life and the world one beautiful adventure at a time.

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196 thoughts on “Seven Super Shots From Andi’s Travels”

  6. Alex

    My favorite is definitely the Easter Island shot. It’s so difficult to find a creative way to capture those iconic places- and you did an amazing job! That’s something I would have on my wall.

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      Thanks so so so much! I really treasure this compliment, because your photography is wonderful! Before I travel to iconic places I already start thinking in my mind how to shoot it in an interesting and unique way?

      Reply ↓
  8. Emily in Chile

    You take such great photos, and it was fun to revisit some that I’d seen before. I hadn’t seen the elephants though, and they’re so cute! That has to be my favorite picture of the post – maybe not the technical best, but it brought a smile to my face as well.

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      Thanks sweetheart! I never blogged about my trip to South Africa, which is a shame, because it was a life-changing trip! I’ll try to do it in 2012. Not the best pics though!!!

      Reply ↓
  9. Cata

    I love those pictures! The buzios sunsets were probably my favorite (ever)! But I have a better idea for the one that makes you laugh!!! I sent it to you a few weeks ago!!! And involves aguardiente or even better the one with the kiss on the neck by a certain perrito??? Hahaha

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      Hahahaha yes you are so right, my smile was BIG in that picture! I loved those Buzios sunset pictures so much, I even had one painted onto a canvas and I hung it my room. I want to see it every day to remind me to DREAM BIG!

      Reply ↓
  13. Cat

    So happy you included the Easter Island photo! It’s one of, if not, my most favorite photo of yours! Love the vibrant orange in the sunset photo as well.

    Reply ↓
  14. Patricia GW

    The shot of the elephants look perfect – no matter the camera, the moment you captured is precious since it was your first encounter with them. All the photos are fabulous!!! 😀

    Reply ↓
  20. Terri

    I love #1! I also live your pic of the woman in Havana. I’ve actually been to Cuba legally, BUT I didn’t get a chance to go to Havana! 🙁 I’m thinking about going on one of the group tours offered by Insight Cuba. We’ll see. 🙂

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      I guess what made it SO special is that it didn’t take like ANY pizza we’ve ever tasted before. Trust me they put something in that sauce that was addictive!!! 🙂

      Reply ↓
  24. Lacey

    SO SO beautiful! You have been fortunate to go on many wonderful adventures and that first picture is just breath taking and I adore the layout of your blog,

    Lacey xoxo

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      Thank you!!!!!!!!!!! I feel blessed to travel the way I do, but I guess in the end it’s all about making it your #1 priority in life right? I’m so delighted you love my blog! XOXO

      Reply ↓
  25. Patrice

    The emotions you experienced are just as incredible as the beautiful images you captured. Thank you so much for sharing. This is one of the best blog posts I’ve ever read.

    Reply ↓
  26. romantic bed and breakfasts luray va

    You have taken really great photos with lots of professionalism. The sun set is scene is the most appealing in all pictures.

    Reply ↓
  27. Meg

    These are so amazing. I’m envious of your travels. It’s totally my dream to go to Easter Island! And the elephant shot is just precious. Great share!

    Reply ↓
  28. Anna

    Gosh I could stare at your photos and read your memoirs ALL day 🙂 So amazing, I can’t believe the places you’ve visited and what you’ve experienced. These photos just are beyond amazing to me (p.s I am THE biggest elephant lover too!)

    Anna xo

    tp://www.lifesshinyprettythings.blogspot.com/

    Reply ↓
  34. Julia Khnykin

    Hi Andi, thank you so much for stopping by my blog because it lead me to yours. Wow, these pictures are simply breathtaking. I am a huge traveler and one of the places I am dying to go to is Brazil and Chile! My boyfriend is currently in Brazil and Chile and have said nothing but amazing things about it. Hopefully one day it will be my turn 🙂 I cannot wait to catch up on your blog and see more beautiful pictures!

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      Welcome!!! If you take a look at some of my old posts you will quickly see that Brasil is my most favorite country in the world! I have tons and tons of posts from there. Chile was incredible too, you’ll have to take a look at my boudoir shoot from there. I saw that your bf was traveling in Brasil on your post and I was jealous haha. XOXO

      Reply ↓
  37. Jen Laceda

    All these photos are stunning, Andi! I have the same photo of that woman in Havana, and so does Kristin…and then I found out that you guys both sneaked in Cuba! Which is why your photo is so much better…because it has a story behind it! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply ↓

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  41. jen

    All of these are wonderful, but the woman in the pink with the cigar is my favorite. I can hardly believe there was a time I did not take a camera with me on my adventures. I so wish digital cameras had existed back in the early 90s when I was starting my career. I worked for the Air Force and I went on many adventures and met many exciting people. What a great post. Much to drink in. I loved each one.

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      I’m so sad that I wasn’t into photography when I first started traveling and when I lived in NYC. Ugh! But well at least you and I will ALWAYS have our incredible memories in our hearts forever!!!

      Reply ↓
  43. Martina

    thank you for stopping by at my blog!!! i didn’t have time to check up on you, which i will now. i was wondering if you have ever made it to croatia, my home country?
    i think you would love it… i love the elephants… such majestic animals!!
    looking forward to chitchatting with you;;;

    Greetings from France

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      You’re welcome! No sadly I have never visited Croatia. I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about it though. The beaches look gorgeous!!! Elephants are the best, right? 🙂

      Reply ↓
  47. Lalaine

    Hi Andi! These photographs are so beautiful, I wish I could travel like you and be able to take great photographs like you do. I especially love the walking elephants, adorable!

    Reply ↓
  55. Lorena : Travel Designery

    These shots are great! Wasn’t Cuba absolutely amazing? And so easy to get to, I was surprised, lol.
    Now I’m hungry after seeing that pizza photo but my favorite pic is the one of the little elephant family, i melted..so cute!!
    P.S. Just saw that you have a facebook fanpage… Definitely will head over and give you a like as soon as FB decides to give me back access to my account! 7 days and unable to log-in.. arrgh.
    Talk soon!
    xo

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      Thanks darling! And yes, Cuba was beyond amazing. I think about her EVERY day!!! Haha I seriously can’t look at that pizza or I will book a flight to Brasil. And the elephant family, ugh, so precious!!! XOXOX

      Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      I’m delighted that you love my 7 shots and I think maybe the Cuba shot is my favorite too. Cuba was a life changing trip for me in so many extraordinary ways! I can’t wait for you to be there and to read all about your experiences!!! I’m definitely going to return in the future with a better camera and more time.

      Reply ↓
  59. Vanisha Mishra-Vakaoti

    I’m so glad you commented on my blog so that I could find yours. That photo of the elephants is my favorite, it conjures so many emotions. This is a meme I might just have to do on my blog. Looking forward to reading more about your travels and adventures <3

    Reply ↓
  63. Bula @ The Irreverent Traveller

    You are such a wonderful photographer. I am looking forlornly at my pictures now, which look like an inebriated goat took them sigh. And also, that pizza picture made my mouth water as well. I’m in Ho Chi Minh City now, and thinking of how I need to go find a slice.

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      Oh my god I’m laughing so hard, “I am looking forlornly at my pictures now, which look like an inebriated goat took them sigh.” That has to be the funniest thing I’ve ever heard, but I don’t believe it for a second. Enjoy HCMC for me! It’s a place I’ve always wanted to visit. Let me know if you find pizza gorgeous.

      Reply ↓
  64. aida

    My dear,
    I found your blog by chance, while peeking others and I decided to check it out! I’m glad I did it, because I am really delighted with yours. It’s beautiful, well structured, interesting, sweet amazing [probably your own qualities right?] and it has completely got me hooked. I think we’re going to get along just fine! 😉
    I’d like to invite you to follow each other. I’d be very pleased.
    I wish you lots of success and will surely come back often
    kisses

    http://cottoncandy-peaches@blogspot.com/

    Reply ↓
  69. Erik

    These are all amazing! Honestly, I’m glad you picked these, I couldn’t even try to imagine trying to sort through all of your incredible photos. The one of the Brazilian sunset is my favorite of these- gorgeous.

    Reply ↓
  71. AnnOnandOn

    I told myself I could look at one blog this morning before going to work. I choose yours…. this post will play a major role in all my daydreams today. I look forward to thinking about each photo, all the details and the experience itself. I don’t think I can pick a favorite….,but I do have a new list of places I’d like to visit…. thanks to you. 😀

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      This is one of the best comments I’ve ever received in the 2 years that I’ve been blogging. Thank you so much!!! Please let me know how your daydreams went!!! <3

      Reply ↓
  76. Rachel

    just wrote this comment on the wrong post..

    this post has inspired me so much my heart is actually beating so fast! i have followed you on bloglovin and am already looking forward to reading it for hours once my essays are out the way!
    thank you for making me feel more inspired than i have since i was a child, i can’t tell you how much i needed this.

    Reply ↓
  77. Cherina

    Such beautiful photos! I think you did just fine without a decent camera for the elephant shot – it is priceless. My other favourite is the one of Florence. I am heading there in a couple of months – looking forward to photographing Italy!

    Reply ↓
  79. rambleswithreese

    These are amazing pictures and places Andi. Thanks for the mini tour. Your fiery sunset in Brazil reminds me of a sunset I saw a few times in Australia. They truly are stunning. We are blessed.

    Reply ↓
  81. Jenn

    WOW. Oh my gosh. These pictures are so incredible. The first and second just completely blew me away! You are so talented! Thanks for stopping by my blog, will definitely be checking yours out more!

    Jenn

    passengerseatperspectives.blogspot.com

    Reply ↓
  83. Kristen

    Your travels are so inspiring! These photos are equally amazing- I love the first one… and that Cuban woman with the cigar 🙂 I seriously need to save for a trip around the world!

    Reply ↓

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  86. Alicia

    Wow! I love that 1st photo, so beautiful. So many amazing places! I just love your food pics too, you make it all so yummy. 🙂

    Reply ↓
    1. Andi Perullo Post author

      I can’t get over how many awesome comments I’ve received, I feel like I keep saying thank you, but I truly mean thank you from the very bottom of my heart!!! XOXO

      Reply ↓

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  95. Rig

    The picture of pizza at No 5 has also watered my mouth. So I can just imagine how delicious it could be that your husband ordered for it daily.

    Reply ↓

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  97. Penny Sadler

    Hi Andi
    I love photography as well and when I travel, it’s one of my main activities!
    Beautiful collection you’ve published. I think my favorite is the wonderful Cuban woman. Good on you for sneaking in! 🙂

    Reply ↓
  100. Steven Andrews

    Traveling and using my new DSLR are two things I’m looking forward to. I love the photos you took and you captured the beauty our world has to offer. Thanks for sharing these stunning pictures with us.

    Reply ↓

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