One of my favorite things about the travel blogging world is the friendliness of its members. Perhaps it has more to do with the nature of fellow travelers, but in one moment, a complete stranger can become an instant friend, whether through twitter, connecting via a blog, or even just over a cocktail on your latest adventure.

I’d like to thank Jenny Neill for introducing herself to me through email and connecting over our shared love of travel, blogging, and photography. She has also invited me to participate in the latest travel blogging meme, Seven Super Shots.

As photography is one of my favorite ways to share the sights and feelings of a place, I am happy to share with you all my Seven Super Shots from traveling to over 15 different countries around the world.

1. Takes my breath away

Sunset in Huanchaco, Peru.

This photo was taken in Huanchaco, Peru without any filters or special settings. I did not edit it at all. I am constantly astounded by the amount of natural beauty in this world. This sunset was so warm and inviting, and watching the golden orb dip lower down was truly a magical moment I will never forget.

2. Makes me laugh or smile

Sophie (right) and I enjoying a lazy day in the beach town of Koh Samet, Thailand

While vacationing in Thailand during a particularly harsh NYC winter, my friend Sophie and I escaped to the tropical paradise of the Koh Samet island. I have the very best memories there, and love how in this picture we are just lazing about on a warm dock, with not a single care in the world. For me, it is really all about the simple moments of being with good friends in a beautiful and warm place. Thanks to Aim for taking this photo!

3. Makes me dream

The Japanese Bridge and Water Lilies at Claude Monet’s home in Giverny, France.

Claude Monet has long been my favorite artist, ever since I was a little girl and developed a love for everything French. But it was the paintings of his iconic Japanese bridge throughout the seasons, surrounded by waterlilies that really pulled me in. I longed to one day visit his home in Giverny, France and experience the real thing. Finally, one beautiful day in October I took the train from Paris and headed to Monet’s tiny hometown. I felt like I was living out one of my favorite dreams as I wandered through the floral lined paths, brushing away the curtains of weeping willows to reveal the bridge in all its glory. It was truly a special moment, that  I still relive to this day.

4. Makes me think

The Swiss Alps in Interlaken, Switzerland

The first time I laid eyes on the Swiss Alps, my mind simply went blank. I was so awestruck by its beauty that it took a moment to take in. Once I got over the initial shock, I was able to experience an extreme level of clarity, that to this day I have not repeated. I had such a clear view of myself and my future, that it felt like, for just one moment, the earth had actually stood still.

5. Makes my mouth water

The infamous Churros from Manolos in Lima, Peru.

While the food in Peru was so unbelievably delicious that it seems impossible to choose a favorite, I have always had a weakness for dessert. Even with its hyped up reputation as the best Churros in town, Manolos in Lima, Peru lives up to its name and beyond. I couldn’t decide which flavor to get so I decided to splurge on one of each: vanilla, chocolate, and dulce de leche.

6. Tells a story

A man selling boiled eggs on the beach in Koh Samet, Thailand

Whenever I travel and cross the paths of locals, I find myself always wondering about their back story. This man was carrying two baskets full of boiled eggs and roasted peanuts for sale along the beach. I never learnt who he was, but I did try his food. Delicious!

7. I am most proud of

The Duomo in Florence, Italy

This photo is not the best one I have ever taken, but it represents a shift in travel and photography for me. During my six month stay in Florence I learned the Italian quality of La Bella Vita, or simply just slowing down. My photographs went from a quick snap as I ran from place to place, to standing and waiting in one spot for that perfect take. I am constantly trying to improve my images, but I felt pretty good when I captured this image of Florence’s Duomo from the shadows.

I am taking part in HostelBookers 7 Super Shots. 

Passing along the challenge:

risingontheroad

TheBlackTwig

afixoflovely

lesleycarter