Seven Super Shots From My Travels (And The Stories Behind Them)

February 16, 2012

There are moments in life that pass quickly — a glance, a laugh, a quiet breath in a place you may never return to again. And yet somehow, a single photograph can hold onto that feeling forever.

Over the years, as I traveled the world with a camera in hand and wonder in my heart, I began to realize something: my favorite photos are not always the most “perfect” ones. They are the ones that make me feel something all over again.

These seven images are not just photographs. They are memories, emotions, and pieces of who I was in those moments — scattered across the world, yet forever part of me.

A Photo That Takes My Breath Away

A quiet moment above Florence at San Miniato al Monte — where intuition led me to pause just long enough to capture something unforgettable.

I remember the exact moment this photo was taken — the kind of moment where something inside you quietly insists, do not leave just yet.

I was walking away from San Miniato al Monte, already late, already aware that my fellow travelers were waiting for me on the bus. But I felt it — that gentle pull, that whisper of intuition telling me to turn back and wander into the adjoining cemetery just a little longer.

So I did.

And then I saw this.

As I lifted my camera and looked through the viewfinder, a wave of goosebumps rushed over me. Florence stretched out softly in the distance, the Duomo glowing beyond, while this quiet, weathered statue stood frozen in time — graceful, still, almost sacred.

It felt like I had stumbled into a moment that was never meant to be rushed.

To this day, I am so grateful I listened to that feeling. Because sometimes the most breathtaking memories are the ones you almost walked away from. 

A Photo That Makes Me Smile

My first time seeing wild elephants — a moment in Kruger National Park that still fills my heart with joy.

Not every photo needs to be perfect to be unforgettable.

In fact, this one is not.

I did not have a great camera with me during my once-in-a-lifetime journey to Kruger National Park in South Africa — something I remember wishing for at the time. But looking back now, it truly does not matter.

Because no matter how sharp or polished this image could have been, it would never capture what I felt in that moment.

This was my first time seeing wild elephants.

And not just one, but a family.

As they slowly crossed in front of our jeep — strong, gentle, completely unbothered by our presence — I felt something shift inside me. My heart swelled in a way I cannot fully explain, like it was trying to make room for a kind of joy I had never experienced before.

I have always been obsessed with elephants… however, in that moment, it became something deeper. Something real.

And every time I look at this photo, I am right back there — smiling, in awe, and completely full of happiness. 

A Photo That Makes Me Dream

A quiet moment in Búzios, Brazil—where the sky burns with color and dreams feel just within reach.

There are certain images that do not just capture a moment—they awaken something deep within you. This is one of them.

Taken in Búzios, Brazil, this fiery sunset feels almost unreal, as if the sky itself is reminding me that life can be as expansive and breathtaking as we allow it to be. The silhouette of the sailboat drifting across the water is more than just a beautiful scene — it represents freedom, possibility, and a life untethered.

For years, I have dreamed of learning how to sail. Of trading routine for rhythm, schedules for sunsets, and certainty for adventure. And somewhere along the way, Brazil quietly found its way into my heart — a place I have long imagined calling home, even if only for a season.

When I look at this photo, I do not just see where I have been. I see where I still want to go.

It is a reminder to dream bigger, to trust the pull of what calls to me, and to finally begin crossing those dreams off of my Bucket List — one brave step at a time.

A Photo That Makes Me Think

A quiet moment in Tibet — where stillness invites reflection and questions feel just as important as answers.

Some places do not just exist on a map—they live inside you long before you ever arrive.

Tibet was that place for me.

For over a decade, I dreamed of standing there, of breathing in its air, of experiencing something I could not quite put into words. And when I finally stepped foot there, it felt less like a trip and more like a pilgrimage — one that had been quietly unfolding within me for years.

Drawn to Buddhism for as long as I can remember, and having studied Comparative Religious Studies with a focus on women in Buddhism, this journey held a deeper meaning than I could have ever explained. It was not just about seeing a destination—it was about understanding a part of myself.

Watching these monks stand in stillness, gazing toward the Potala Palace—the historic home of the Dalai Lamas — I found myself doing the same. Not just looking… but reflecting.

On life. On purpose. On everything we spend so much time trying to understand.

What is the true meaning of life?
Does karma really exist?
And what, if anything, awaits us after this life ends?

This photo does not give me answers. But it reminds me that sometimes, the beauty is in asking the questions.

A Photo That Makes My Mouth Water

The unforgettable pizza we ate every single day in Trancoso — still dreaming about that “secret sauce.”

You know a dish has truly changed you when you find yourself thinking about it long after the trip ends —days, months… even years later.

That is exactly what this pizza did to me.

I first tasted it on my honeymoon in Trancoso, Brazil, and from the very first bite, I knew it was something special. Light, perfectly crisp, layered with fresh tomatoes, melted cheese, and just the right hint of something I could not quite place — it was simple, yet unforgettable.

Lucas and I ordered it every single day.

And on our last day, we did not even pretend to share — we each ordered one of our own.

We tried everything to recreate it at home. We even asked the chef what made it so extraordinary. She just smiled and told us it was her “secret sauce.”

And maybe that is the magic of it.

Because every time I look at this photo, I am transported back to those golden afternoons in Trancoso —the salty air, the warmth of the sun, the feeling of being newly in love, and the kind of happiness you wish you could bottle forever.

Some flavors you never forget.

A Photo That Tells A Story

A moment in Havana — where resilience, pride, and joy shine through in the simplest of ways.

Some stories do not need words — they live in a single expression, a single moment, a single glance.

This one takes me back to Cuba.

I had quietly made my way there for my 25th birthday, knowing it was not the easiest place to visit, but feeling an undeniable pull to experience it for myself. And from the moment I arrived in La Habana, I realized this was not just a destination — it was a lesson.

Life there is not easy. Decades of restrictions and limited resources have shaped a reality that most of us could never fully understand. And yet, what struck me most was not what people lacked, but what they carried so effortlessly.

Joy. Pride. Presence.

This woman, sitting against a worn wall in her soft pink dress, radiates something far greater than circumstance. Her smile, her posture, the quiet confidence in the way she exists in that moment — it tells a story of resilience, of identity, of a deep-rooted pride in being Cuban.

She may not have much in the way the world measures it. But she has something more powerful. A spirit that cannot be diminished.

And that is what makes this image unforgettable.

A Photo I Am Most Proud Of (My “National Geographic” Moment)

A different perspective of the sacred Moai on Easter Island — captured during my final solo adventure.

There are trips that change you — and then there are the ones that define you.

For my last solo journey as a single woman, I wanted to go somewhere that felt as bold and untamed as the moment I was in. Somewhere that would challenge me, inspire me, and stay with me forever.

That place was Easter Island, Chile — the most remote inhabited island in the world.

Standing face to face with the sacred Moai was surreal. These ancient figures, carved centuries ago, hold a quiet power that is impossible to fully explain. They are not just statues — they are guardians of history, mystery, and meaning.

But as I stood there, I felt something shift. I did not just want to see them.

I wanted to capture them in a way that felt different — something that reflected not only their presence, but my perspective in that moment. A composition that felt intentional, unexpected, and entirely my own.

And this was the result.

A photograph that, to me, represents more than just a place — it represents independence, curiosity, and the courage to explore the world on my own terms.

It was my final trip as a single woman. And in many ways, it felt like the beginning of everything.

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?

Andi Perullo de Ledesma

Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a travel writer, professional photographer, and former Chinese Medicine Doctor based in Charlotte, NC. Wife to Lucas, mother to Joaquín, and dog mother to Panda. I share stories of love and loss, and the meaning in between. Through travel and everyday moments, I believe there is always something beautiful waiting to be discovered.

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196 thoughts on “Seven Super Shots From My Travels (And The Stories Behind Them)”

  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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