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How to Plan a Waterfall Seekender Escape in LA!

Alyssa Ramos

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Make your hometown exciting again by jumping onboard Hampton by Hilton’s Seekender project! I gave it a whirl this weekend with epic goals of finding a waterfall to chase within an hour of where I live in Los Angeles, and you better believe I succeeded! I hit not just one, but TWO waterfalls this weekend!

Waterfall Seekender Escape mylifesamovie.com

In fact, I turned my whole waterfall chasing escapade into an awesome weekend seekender vacation with Hampton by Hilton, which gave me that massive dose of adventure that I need to maintain my wanderlust! You’ll never know what you’ll be able to find nearby where you live, but if you happen to be coming to where I live and want an awesome adventure, check out my waterfall seekender escape in LA!

Day 1: Paradise Falls Waterfall Hike

Paradise Falls Waterfall Seekender escape mylifesamovie.com

Location: Wildwood Park in Thousand Oaks

Distance: 2.5 mile round trip hike

Difficulty: Easy

Paradise Falls is by far one of the prettiest, actually-flowing waterfalls that I’ve seen around the area, and the hike to get to it is quite nice as well! It’s located in Wildwood Park which is in Thousand Oaks, just 45 minutes from West Hollywood depending on our lovely traffic.

The hike is super easy and extremely beautiful, especially right now (March) thanks to all of the rainfall we’ve been getting! The entire hike is super-blooming like crazy, and it’s completely lush and green rather than the normal dry desert landscape!

Mid-way to the waterfall there’s also a really cool wooden teepee you can stop at for a break, or even a picnic! Although, let’s be serious, you’d probably rather do that once you actually get to Paradise Falls!

Where to Stay:

Hampton by Hilton Thousand Oaks mylifesamovie.com

Once I figured out the area that Paradise Falls was in, I searched for a Hampton by Hilton nearby that I could head to after my hike. There’s one extremely close by that’s only a 10 minute drive to the trail head, and it has a beautiful pool to cool down in after the hike.

Since you aren’t allowed to actually swim in this waterfall due to sharp rocks, the pool and jacuzzi at Hampton Inn are definitely a nice alternative!

Hampton Inn pool mylifesamovie.com

Sleep soundly in your fluffy comfy bed and enjoy being away from home on your seekender staycation! Don’t forget to snag a few of their fun coffee cups that have funny mouths or a mustache on the lid! Be sure to fill up on their hot, delicious breakfast, or take one of their complimentary to-go bags if you want to get started on your hike ASAP!

Day 2: Escondido Falls Waterfall Hike

escondido falls waterfall mylifesamovie.com

Location: Escondido Canyon, Malibu

Distance: 3.7 mile round trip hike

Difficulty: Moderate – Hard

Wake up early and enjoy your included breakfast at Hampton Inn before heading 35 minutes over the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains to Escondido Falls! You’ll get a beautiful glimpse of Malibu’s beaches as you head there, which you’ll definitely want to stop at afterwards!

Escondido Falls is usually a hit or miss because of the drought in California, but as I mentioned before, with all the recent rainfall, it’s currently a-flowin’! The hike is also very beautiful, but to get to the main waterfall you have to do a bit of climbing. Definitely be sure to wear non-slip sneakers!

What’s cool about Escondido Falls is that there’s a little cave you can climb up to and stand behind the waterfall! The waterfall itself looks like a mossy chandelier with three tiers of mushroom shaped overhangs!

Where to Eat:

seekender lunch mylifesamovie.com

After that lovely little hike to Escondido Falls you’ll probably have quite the appetite! The great news is that you’ll be in Malibu where there’s tons of amazing restaurants! My favorite one is Paradise Cove because it’s right on the beach where you can go relax after eating.

They have an UH-MAZING cold seafood platter that I would highly recommend, and of course paired with some of their house-vineyard white wine!

Lunch Hampton by Hilton

Disclaimer: I was fortunate enough to experience this awesome waterfall weekend thanks to a collaboration with Hampton by Hilton. All photos, writing, experiences, and awesomeness are all my own!

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Alyssa Ramos is one of the first original travel blogger/influencers who helped normalize solo female travel. She’s been to 146 countries so far, plus Antarctica 4x, and all of her tips are on this blog!

@mylifesatravelmovie
Alyssa Ramos | Most Traveled Women

@mylifesatravelmovie

One of the World’s Most Traveled Women 146 countries (solo, so far) • 7 Continents Expert • Activist • Entrepreneur GroupTrips: @mylifesatraveltribe
  • I've been waiting 2 years for this adventure in Pakistan, so after an 18 hour journey to get here, I hit the ground running!

Sundays are mellow and a lot less crowded, so I got a relatively chill stroll through the Kotwali Wala Bazar, where I stopped for chai, bought too many pairs of shoes and bangles, and a free hand stamp henna!

Then it was off to the famous Haveli rooftop restaurant in a former mansion overlooking the mosque and other religious sites, followed by another chai, a stop at the pharmacy in the dodgier area (picked up a cold in between trips), and finally back to a 5 star hotel i found for just $65 per night!

Absolutely loving it so far, and I'm so grateful for my hosts who have been so patient with my constant travel changes and made up itineraries! Cannot wait to come back here with a group already, and i haven't even gotten to the mountains yet!!!

I'm going to attempt daily posts, so please be sure to follow along if you're interested in seeing more! 

Also yes, so far I feel safe here as a solo female travelers, but let's see how it is on a crowded weekday and after that lovely little mountain flight to Skardu!

Anyone have Pakistan on their bucketlist??
  • Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖

It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with!

Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! 

So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! 

Now about these beautiful places!

I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal!

The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! 

The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo?

Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! 

I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂

-------

For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
  • I've been waiting 2 years for this adventure in Pakistan, so after an 18 hour journey to get here, I hit the ground running!

Sundays are mellow and a lot less crowded, so I got a relatively chill stroll through the Kotwali Wala Bazar, where I stopped for chai, bought too many pairs of shoes and bangles, and a free hand stamp henna!

Then it was off to the famous Haveli rooftop restaurant in a former mansion overlooking the mosque and other religious sites, followed by another chai, a stop at the pharmacy in the dodgier area (picked up a cold in between trips), and finally back to a 5 star hotel i found for just $65 per night!

Absolutely loving it so far, and I'm so grateful for my hosts @destinationpakistan who have been so patient with my constant travel changes and made up itineraries! Cannot wait to come back here with a group already, and i haven't even gotten to the mountains yet!!!

I'm going to attempt daily posts, so please be sure to follow along if you're interested in seeing more! 

Also yes, so far I feel safe here as a solo female travelers, but let's see how it is on a crowded Monday and after that lovely little mountain flight on Tuesday! 

Anyone have Pakistan on their bucketlist??
  • Finally beat the budget airlines game!! This is for everyone who has ever gotten excited for a $20 flight in the EU, only to end up paying double for even a carryon!

[Comment “travel” and I’ll DM you the link to my packing tutorial and all of these products!]

For everyone who has tried to layer on as much as possible when they’re weighing bags, and who has had a mini melt down when they ask to place your bag in the measuring bin! 

I present to you, my top travel packing hacks as a full time travel professional: 

1. Travel compression bags (now with portable pump)
2. Foldable toiletry bag with bare minimum necessities
3. Bags that sneakily expand
4. Convertible shoes

This is all I packed for a 6 day trip to Venice, Mallorca, and a black tie wedding in Alicante!

And if I can do it, so can you, becaaauussee

I’m a former live-out-of-giant-suitcase gal from my decade as a nomad, but now with a home base in Italy (and Mexico), I’ve adapted to “bring as little as possible since you go back home”, both for convenience and to avoid thousands of dollars in baggage fees each year! 

Do you think you could manage with a personal item only?? Are you a checked bag person or carry on only?
  • T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
  • The only times you don’t need an eSIM while traveling are when you literally cannot be holding a phone 😂

For all other times, easily download an eSIM like AloSIM which are really affordable at just a few dollars per day or less versus the typical $10 for international roaming! 

Use “TRAVELMOVIE15” for an extra 15% off!

How do you stay connected abroad?
  • Traveling was not a possibility for me when I was younger, yet now I’ve reached my 150th country (out of the 197 list which includes Kosovo)!! It has taken me 12 years, I’ve done most of them solo, and many have been collaborations that I received or pitched, but anything else, including most flights was solely paid for by myself, and here’s how I did it:

(But first! Comment “TRAVEL” and I’ll send you links to my tips for making money while traveling, how to play flight roulette, and also this Balkans roadtrip itinerary!)

14 years ago - I started my blog but it didn’t make much money for a couple years. I used my only money and a credit card to take my first trip.

I was one of the first people to pitch the concept of “free trips in exchange for social media posts” and I sent hundreds of them, always landing at least one, but there was still so much to see!

With the money I earned from my blog, paid posts, and my writing for other platforms, I’d go travel but I’d play what I called “flight roulette”, where I pick “anywhere” as the destination, and choose the cheapest flight to somewhere I hadn’t been yet!

As my business grew, I needed to repeat many countries each time year, and now I still travel to an average of 25 countries per year as a traveler-by-trade (influencer/entrepreneur), with the goal of 5-10 new ones each year.

I never thought I’d reach all 197 countries…but now that there’s only 47 left…do I attempt it?!?!

You can see all the countries I’ve been to and written about on my blog using the clickable map on the home page of mylifesamovie.com, or the menu that’s categorized by destination!

As for making money to travel - I have a lot of posts on that and also a course, which teaches techniques for everyone, not just those wanting to be a creator!

And for anyone who DOES want to be a creator or group trip host — my biggest advice is to find a niche personal to you, find your specific audience who can relate, and don’t just copy other people’s techniques, create new ones and stand out! Originality is admirable!! 😁

Thank you everyone who has stayed on this looonnggg journey with me! I can’t
  • Haters gunna hate, trolls gunna troll, and adventurers gunna adventure. Don’t hate the influencer, hate the fact that there’s a lot of people who like to do similar things as them. 😂 

If adrenaline activities in rare, far, unique destinations is also your passion, comment “Tribe” and I’ll send you our line up for 2027/28 and how to get first dibs notifications!

Also, this is why we require liability waivers on our group trips 🤪😬 however this activity was very well coordinated, had 4 professional guides and safety guards, and is a well-known activity in Victoria Falls!

Follow @mylifesatravelmovie (one of the world’s most experienced solo female travelers) for extreme adventures and unique experiences in over 150 countries, and @mylifesatraveltribe to join on one of the adventures!
  • The only reasons you should NOT get an eSIM are if you enjoy searching for wifi, paying more for roaming, or you really want to disconnect 😜

But if you want to make your trip easier, just download an app like @alosim_app and get an affordable data plan, install it in seconds, and then it'll activate as soon as you arrive!

No sketchy airport wifi required.

Comment "esim" and I'll send you my step by step guide for how to use one, and you can also use TRAVELMOVIE for an extra discount!

Note: your phone must be unlocked to use an eSIM!
I've been waiting 2 years for this adventure in Pakistan, so after an 18 hour journey to get here, I hit the ground running! Sundays are mellow and a lot less crowded, so I got a relatively chill stroll through the Kotwali Wala Bazar, where I stopped for chai, bought too many pairs of shoes and bangles, and a free hand stamp henna! Then it was off to the famous Haveli rooftop restaurant in a former mansion overlooking the mosque and other religious sites, followed by another chai, a stop at the pharmacy in the dodgier area (picked up a cold in between trips), and finally back to a 5 star hotel i found for just $65 per night! Absolutely loving it so far, and I'm so grateful for my hosts who have been so patient with my constant travel changes and made up itineraries! Cannot wait to come back here with a group already, and i haven't even gotten to the mountains yet!!! I'm going to attempt daily posts, so please be sure to follow along if you're interested in seeing more! Also yes, so far I feel safe here as a solo female travelers, but let's see how it is on a crowded weekday and after that lovely little mountain flight to Skardu! Anyone have Pakistan on their bucketlist??
8 hours ago
171
View on Instagram |
1/9
Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖

It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with!

Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! 

So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! 

Now about these beautiful places!

I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal!

The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! 

The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo?

Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! 

I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂

-------

For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖

It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with!

Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! 

So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! 

Now about these beautiful places!

I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal!

The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! 

The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo?

Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! 

I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂

-------

For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖

It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with!

Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! 

So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! 

Now about these beautiful places!

I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal!

The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! 

The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo?

Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! 

I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂

-------

For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖

It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with!

Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! 

So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! 

Now about these beautiful places!

I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal!

The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! 

The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo?

Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! 

I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂

-------

For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖

It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with!

Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! 

So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! 

Now about these beautiful places!

I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal!

The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! 

The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo?

Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! 

I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂

-------

For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖

It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with!

Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! 

So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! 

Now about these beautiful places!

I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal!

The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! 

The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo?

Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! 

I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂

-------

For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
Postcards from solo travels in Lahore, Pakistan 💖 It's only day 2 and I'm already enchanted! This is the kind of destination that explorers and curious-minds fall in love with! Many people have asked if I feel scared or tell me to be careful, and I truly appreciate the concern! I probably wouldnt have traveled here alone if i didnt have 12 years of solo travel experience, and maybe that's why the universe led me here now, but it has felt safe, and I always travel with extreme caution, awareness, and vigilance, and i recommend the same to everyone anywhere you go! So far I've been treated with kindness and respect, and have gotten a lot of love from all of you proud Pakistanis on here, and I thank you so much for that! Now about these beautiful places! I had dejavu in Lahore, recognizing the style of the mosques from those I've seen so many times in India, and then I got a nice history and geography lesson to learn that it's because both countries were all once ruled by the same Moghul empire, which is where this architecture comes from, and why it may remind some of you of the Taj Mahal! The red structure is the Badshahi Mosque, and the last photo is a sneak peak of the ornate Wazir Khan Mosque! The photo with the Pakistani family is probably my favorite - they asked me for a photo, so I asked for one as well! Which is your favorite photo? Also for anyone wondering who is taking the photos, I'm here as part of a campaign with @destinationpakistan, and my guide this day @alpinepakistan was kind enough to be a human tripod! I'll definitely be adding Pakistan to @mylifesatraveltribe group adventures lineup (follow there for updates about it) but for anyone wanting to go solo, check them out and mention me if you'd like a similar itinerary/style, bc i definitely adjusted mine a lot! 😂 ------- For any new friends here -- hi! I'm Alyssa Ramos, a Cuban American woman and one of the first original solo female travel blogger/influencers, and a pioneer of the creator industry and influencer-hosted group trips! I've been traveling continuously for 12 years across 151 countries so far, and all 7 continents! Thanks for joining the adventure!
11 hours ago
29546
View on Instagram |
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I've been waiting 2 years for this adventure in Pakistan, so after an 18 hour journey to get here, I hit the ground running! Sundays are mellow and a lot less crowded, so I got a relatively chill stroll through the Kotwali Wala Bazar, where I stopped for chai, bought too many pairs of shoes and bangles, and a free hand stamp henna! Then it was off to the famous Haveli rooftop restaurant in a former mansion overlooking the mosque and other religious sites, followed by another chai, a stop at the pharmacy in the dodgier area (picked up a cold in between trips), and finally back to a 5 star hotel i found for just $65 per night! Absolutely loving it so far, and I'm so grateful for my hosts @destinationpakistan who have been so patient with my constant travel changes and made up itineraries! Cannot wait to come back here with a group already, and i haven't even gotten to the mountains yet!!! I'm going to attempt daily posts, so please be sure to follow along if you're interested in seeing more! Also yes, so far I feel safe here as a solo female travelers, but let's see how it is on a crowded Monday and after that lovely little mountain flight on Tuesday! Anyone have Pakistan on their bucketlist??
2 days ago
3,094161
View on Instagram |
3/9
Finally beat the budget airlines game!! This is for everyone who has ever gotten excited for a $20 flight in the EU, only to end up paying double for even a carryon! [Comment “travel” and I’ll DM you the link to my packing tutorial and all of these products!] For everyone who has tried to layer on as much as possible when they’re weighing bags, and who has had a mini melt down when they ask to place your bag in the measuring bin! I present to you, my top travel packing hacks as a full time travel professional: 1. Travel compression bags (now with portable pump) 2. Foldable toiletry bag with bare minimum necessities 3. Bags that sneakily expand 4. Convertible shoes This is all I packed for a 6 day trip to Venice, Mallorca, and a black tie wedding in Alicante! And if I can do it, so can you, becaaauussee I’m a former live-out-of-giant-suitcase gal from my decade as a nomad, but now with a home base in Italy (and Mexico), I’ve adapted to “bring as little as possible since you go back home”, both for convenience and to avoid thousands of dollars in baggage fees each year! Do you think you could manage with a personal item only?? Are you a checked bag person or carry on only?
3 days ago
32
View on Instagram |
4/9
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community!

After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂

Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand!

Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified!

Anyone wanna come??
T-minus 2 weeks till I return to the ‘Stan’s of Central Asia, but instead of solo, this time with 16 brave adventurous souls from our Travel Tribe Group Adventures Community! After exploring and navigating logistics alone, I’ve put together a custom, logistically-chaotic, yet adventure packed, luxe-comfort route and itinerary that has probably been one of the most difficult to coordinate for a group! 😁😂 Manifesting a smooth and safe journey for us all! Including my little pre-adventure in the mountains of Pakistan, and hopefully a quick trip to Azerbaijan beforehand! Our 2027 Fall Stan’s trip is sold out with waitlist available and we are working on adding another trip in the Spring! Be sure to follow @mylifesatraveltribe and fill out the form on the bio to get notified! Anyone wanna come??
5 days ago
34640
View on Instagram |
5/9
The only times you don’t need an eSIM while traveling are when you literally cannot be holding a phone 😂 For all other times, easily download an eSIM like AloSIM which are really affordable at just a few dollars per day or less versus the typical $10 for international roaming! Use “TRAVELMOVIE15” for an extra 15% off! How do you stay connected abroad?
2 weeks ago
50
View on Instagram |
6/9
Traveling was not a possibility for me when I was younger, yet now I’ve reached my 150th country (out of the 197 list which includes Kosovo)!! It has taken me 12 years, I’ve done most of them solo, and many have been collaborations that I received or pitched, but anything else, including most flights was solely paid for by myself, and here’s how I did it: (But first! Comment “TRAVEL” and I’ll send you links to my tips for making money while traveling, how to play flight roulette, and also this Balkans roadtrip itinerary!) 14 years ago - I started my blog but it didn’t make much money for a couple years. I used my only money and a credit card to take my first trip. I was one of the first people to pitch the concept of “free trips in exchange for social media posts” and I sent hundreds of them, always landing at least one, but there was still so much to see! With the money I earned from my blog, paid posts, and my writing for other platforms, I’d go travel but I’d play what I called “flight roulette”, where I pick “anywhere” as the destination, and choose the cheapest flight to somewhere I hadn’t been yet! As my business grew, I needed to repeat many countries each time year, and now I still travel to an average of 25 countries per year as a traveler-by-trade (influencer/entrepreneur), with the goal of 5-10 new ones each year. I never thought I’d reach all 197 countries…but now that there’s only 47 left…do I attempt it?!?! You can see all the countries I’ve been to and written about on my blog using the clickable map on the home page of mylifesamovie.com, or the menu that’s categorized by destination! As for making money to travel - I have a lot of posts on that and also a course, which teaches techniques for everyone, not just those wanting to be a creator! And for anyone who DOES want to be a creator or group trip host — my biggest advice is to find a niche personal to you, find your specific audience who can relate, and don’t just copy other people’s techniques, create new ones and stand out! Originality is admirable!! 😁 Thank you everyone who has stayed on this looonnggg journey with me! I can’t
2 weeks ago
28740
View on Instagram |
7/9
Haters gunna hate, trolls gunna troll, and adventurers gunna adventure. Don’t hate the influencer, hate the fact that there’s a lot of people who like to do similar things as them. 😂 If adrenaline activities in rare, far, unique destinations is also your passion, comment “Tribe” and I’ll send you our line up for 2027/28 and how to get first dibs notifications! Also, this is why we require liability waivers on our group trips 🤪😬 however this activity was very well coordinated, had 4 professional guides and safety guards, and is a well-known activity in Victoria Falls! Follow @mylifesatravelmovie (one of the world’s most experienced solo female travelers) for extreme adventures and unique experiences in over 150 countries, and @mylifesatraveltribe to join on one of the adventures!
3 weeks ago
47
View on Instagram |
8/9
The only reasons you should NOT get an eSIM are if you enjoy searching for wifi, paying more for roaming, or you really want to disconnect 😜 But if you want to make your trip easier, just download an app like @alosim_app and get an affordable data plan, install it in seconds, and then it'll activate as soon as you arrive! No sketchy airport wifi required. Comment "esim" and I'll send you my step by step guide for how to use one, and you can also use TRAVELMOVIE for an extra discount! Note: your phone must be unlocked to use an eSIM!
4 weeks ago
2
View on Instagram |
9/9

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