Facebook X (Twitter) Pinterest Instagram

[VIDEO] My Life’s a Movie in: Komodo Islands

Alyssa Ramos

Search

One of my many bucket lists is to go to all of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, and one of those places is the Komodo Islands in Indonesia! The first time I went to Indonesia, I made the mistake of only exploring around Bali, and not researching ahead of time how to even get to Komodo Islands.

So you can probably imagine how stoked I was when my favorite cheap flight finder website, Skyscanner.com (what I always use for my flight hack tutorials!), freaking invited me to go explore the Komodo Islands to help let everyone know how awesome they are! If you have no idea what the Komodo Islands are, my little adventure video will give you a quick glimpse into all that those magical islands have to offer.

Padar Island Komodo Island mylifesamovie.com

Komodo Islands is considered one of the New 7 Wonders of nature because it’s the only island in the world where the super rare, super creepy-looking, Komodo dragons live…other than zoos around the world, of course. But seeing massive reptiles that kind of resemble Godzilla aren’t even the best part about these eastern Indonesian islands!

Komodo Islands is also known for its incredible scuba diving and snorkeling, because the water is insanely clear, and you see a ton of wild life! You don’t even have to read this to know that if you watch the video! Just by snorkeling and free diving I was able to see the colorful and lively coral reefs, and I even got to stalk a few Manta Rays! …Jokes were on me when those massive 9 foot wide filter feeders did a U-turn and came vacuuming right at me!

But aside from the spectacular view under the water, there was also a ton of insane scenery above the water as well! Padar Island, which you’ll see first in the video, is probably everyone’s favorite part of the day tour. It’s an easy hike up a mountan-ey island, and when you turn around, BOOM! A breathtaking view of the island’s three beaches, each with a different color of sand! You don’t even have to try to imagine seeing different colors; you’ll literally see black sand, pink sand, and yellow sand!

Komodo Island national park mylifesamovie.com

There’s definitely nothing like the Komodo Islands in Indonesia, which is why Skyscanner obv chose it to highlight it! It was also actually A LOT easier to get to than I thought it would be! Flights to Bali aren’t that bad right now, and even if you aren’t stoked about the prices you’re seeing, I have quite a few tricks up my sleeve for flight hacking your way to a cheaper flight!

Overall I’d definitely give the Komodo Islands my adventure seal of approval…not that that’s a real thing…but if it were, it would definitely have one!

Anyway! If you’re interested in learning more about the awesomeness of Komodo Islands, or how to get there, check out my other posts below!

Also! I just started my little “My Life’s a Movie in:” series, so if you could please follow my Youtube channel, I’d love you a lot for it!!

Search

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
  • Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it!

Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬

We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!!

Photography company tagged as a collaborator!

Would you do this or nah?

———

Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
  • Kyrgyzstan is rising in popularity as a unique travel destination and its easy to see why!

From the beautiful nature to the well preserved culture, plus being extremely safe, it really makes it an ideal destination, but definitely expect some logistical hurdles 😁

Horseback riding in Chon Kemin and visiting Ala Archa National Park are a must! That's also where we learned about the Golden Eagles, a centuries old tradition practiced by their nomad culture that is still done today, mostly to continue keeping the traditions alive and teaching visitors about it.

Do you want to visit Kyrgyzstan?

------

I'm currently hosting a custom created "luxe-adventure" through the 5 Stans of Central Asia with my group adventure community @mylifesatraveltribe! This trip is in high demand so if youd'd to join one of them, please follow there and sign up for our notifications email list linked on the bio, as we dont publicly announce or send out our itineraries. 😁
  • Kyrgyzstan is rising in popularity as a unique travel destination and its easy to see why!

From the beautiful nature to the well preserved culture, plus being extremely safe, it really makes it an ideal destination, but definitely expect some logistical hurdles 😁

Horseback riding in Chon Kemin and visiting Ala Archa National Park are a must! That's also where we learned about the Golden Eagles, a centuries old tradition practiced by their nomad culture that is still done today, mostly to continue keeping the traditions alive and teaching visitors about them!

Would you visit Kyrgyzstan?
  • KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
  • I was one of the last foreigners permitted in Virunga National Park in D.R. Congo before it was closed due to many armed and dangerous groups occupying it. 

That experience was one of the most memorable ones in my life, and part of why I’ll always say DRC is one of my favorite destinations I’ve been to (4 times).

But DRC is also one of the most corrupt countries, with some of the most horrific ongoing atrocities committed on the local Congolese people, the environment, and the animals by greedy, heartless humans.

Deforestation, illegal mining for minerals used to make your electronics, and destruction (plus human abuse) are a part of why the animals there suffer.

Poaching for bushmeat and to steal baby primates to sell as pets is another.

If you’ve ever seen a primate, especially chimpanzees, kept as a personal pet or on display, its parents were likely killed so it could be kidnapped. UAE and Gulf countries, Thailand, China, Eastern EU countries, and even people in the USA are all guilty of this.

That’s why one of the organizations I’ve become an ambassador for in D.R.Congo is @lwiro_primates . 

Lwiro Primates take in injured, abandoned, and smuggled primates, and they rehabilitate and care for them, even during a time when their own homeland is a very scary please.

So I am kindly asking today on World Giving Day for Apes, to send them a donation, or at least share their story or the info in this post. Anything helps, nothing does not.

And if you ever see a chimp as a pet, please ask the owner if they’re aware that its parents were likely killed just for it to be kidnapped and forced to be a pet. 😡

The link to the fundraiser is on Lwiro’s page and I’ll share on my Stories!

I’ve brought about 100 travelers to D.R.Congo, and they all can attest to what a beautiful and unique place it is. I pray and dream for the day that we can safely return there and bring tourism back.

Napenda Congo 🇨🇩💖
  • The highlight reel of Skardu, Pakistan! If you'd like the behind the scenes, see my previous posts or the story highlight! But also, yes, it really is this beautiful!

Do you like pretty highlight reels or do you prefer the struggle clips? 

Asking for a friend...who has a lot of both... 😬
  • The Photo VS the Moment in Skardu, Pakistan (wait for the videos after the photo) for anyone who thinks getting photos is easy, behold, freezing water, climbing on rocks, and magical geese who apparently want to be featured in the pics.!

(Comment "Skardu" and ill DM you my full travel guide plus how to get notifications for the group trip next year!)

What's the wildest thing you've done for a photo??

Thank you Destination Pakistan for the offer to work together and for helping get this footage so I didn't have to always use my tripod or selfie stick!
  • Just confirming that Haveli restaurant has the best rooftop view in Lahore! Make a reservation because it's always busy and ask to sit closest to the mosque!

The entire building of Haveli is beautiful and fascinating! A former mansion that's ornately decorated, and located in an area that was formerly infamous for..brothels!

Now, largely thanks to tourism demand, this area of Lahore is a lot cleaner and safer than it used to be, and it offers some of the most spectacular sites to see, both from above and below!

What would you rate this view from 1 to 10??
  • Made it to Skardu without any flight issues! Flights to and from the mountain region of Pakistan have a pretty high rate of cancellation due to unpredictable weather...

And speaking of unpredictable weather, the reports said it would be really cold, but it was warm, so i "had to" go shopping for shalwar kameez as soon as I arrived 😍

Then it was off to the Shangri La Lake for some pink tea before making the drive to Shigar cold desert for a sunset horseback riding session, before settling into a beautiful riverfront boutique resort!

Everyone says you have to go to the northern mountains of Pakistan, and now I see why! This place is magical and I only have a few days to explore!

PS did you know that this region has the highest number of world's tallest mountain peaks, it has has both deserts and lakes at extremely high altitudes, and also the largest glaciers in the world aside from the polar regions??

More coming soon! Do you want to visit Skardu??
Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it!

Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬

We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!!

Photography company tagged as a collaborator!

Would you do this or nah?

———

Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it!

Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬

We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!!

Photography company tagged as a collaborator!

Would you do this or nah?

———

Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it!

Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬

We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!!

Photography company tagged as a collaborator!

Would you do this or nah?

———

Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it!

Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬

We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!!

Photography company tagged as a collaborator!

Would you do this or nah?

———

Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it!

Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬

We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!!

Photography company tagged as a collaborator!

Would you do this or nah?

———

Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it!

Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬

We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!!

Photography company tagged as a collaborator!

Would you do this or nah?

———

Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
Samarkand the second time was even more magical! Since I went here last year, they’ve now started doing these “flying dress” photoshoots at Registan Square for around $67, which was definitely worth it! Go super early (6:30-8) to avoid anyone in your photos AND to avoid annoying other travelers trying to take photos 😬 We also got a few group pics with the Travel Tribe! It’s definitely been extremely fun being here a second time with them!! Photography company tagged as a collaborator! Would you do this or nah? ——— Uzbekistan, Registan Square, Samarkand, group trips, solo female traveler, mylifesatravelmovie, Alyssa Ramos
3 days ago
40554
View on Instagram |
1/9
Kyrgyzstan is rising in popularity as a unique travel destination and its easy to see why! From the beautiful nature to the well preserved culture, plus being extremely safe, it really makes it an ideal destination, but definitely expect some logistical hurdles 😁 Horseback riding in Chon Kemin and visiting Ala Archa National Park are a must! That's also where we learned about the Golden Eagles, a centuries old tradition practiced by their nomad culture that is still done today, mostly to continue keeping the traditions alive and teaching visitors about it. Do you want to visit Kyrgyzstan? ------ I'm currently hosting a custom created "luxe-adventure" through the 5 Stans of Central Asia with my group adventure community @mylifesatraveltribe! This trip is in high demand so if youd'd to join one of them, please follow there and sign up for our notifications email list linked on the bio, as we dont publicly announce or send out our itineraries. 😁
6 days ago
2219
View on Instagram |
2/9
Kyrgyzstan is rising in popularity as a unique travel destination and its easy to see why! From the beautiful nature to the well preserved culture, plus being extremely safe, it really makes it an ideal destination, but definitely expect some logistical hurdles 😁 Horseback riding in Chon Kemin and visiting Ala Archa National Park are a must! That's also where we learned about the Golden Eagles, a centuries old tradition practiced by their nomad culture that is still done today, mostly to continue keeping the traditions alive and teaching visitors about them! Would you visit Kyrgyzstan?
6 days ago
41
View on Instagram |
3/9
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently!

This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically)

Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! 

The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners!

Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
KYRGYZSTAN! A destination many travelers are talking about this year, especially with the recent World Nomad Games happening here recently! This is country 1 of 5 of my custom created 5 'Stans Group Adventure itinerary for my Travel Tribe, and it has already been an incredible journey so far (albeit, extremely difficult logistically) Kyrgyzstan is a gem for those who love pristine nature and unique well preserved cultures! The Golden Eagles are a staple of ancient nomadic culture here, and today are showcased in the National Parks and other areas to keep their culture alive and educated about! These giant birds were used to hunt and as status symbols, and are like family members to the owners! Is Kyrgyzstan on your to-go list?
1 week ago
53130
View on Instagram |
4/9
I was one of the last foreigners permitted in Virunga National Park in D.R. Congo before it was closed due to many armed and dangerous groups occupying it. That experience was one of the most memorable ones in my life, and part of why I’ll always say DRC is one of my favorite destinations I’ve been to (4 times). But DRC is also one of the most corrupt countries, with some of the most horrific ongoing atrocities committed on the local Congolese people, the environment, and the animals by greedy, heartless humans. Deforestation, illegal mining for minerals used to make your electronics, and destruction (plus human abuse) are a part of why the animals there suffer. Poaching for bushmeat and to steal baby primates to sell as pets is another. If you’ve ever seen a primate, especially chimpanzees, kept as a personal pet or on display, its parents were likely killed so it could be kidnapped. UAE and Gulf countries, Thailand, China, Eastern EU countries, and even people in the USA are all guilty of this. That’s why one of the organizations I’ve become an ambassador for in D.R.Congo is @lwiro_primates . Lwiro Primates take in injured, abandoned, and smuggled primates, and they rehabilitate and care for them, even during a time when their own homeland is a very scary please. So I am kindly asking today on World Giving Day for Apes, to send them a donation, or at least share their story or the info in this post. Anything helps, nothing does not. And if you ever see a chimp as a pet, please ask the owner if they’re aware that its parents were likely killed just for it to be kidnapped and forced to be a pet. 😡 The link to the fundraiser is on Lwiro’s page and I’ll share on my Stories! I’ve brought about 100 travelers to D.R.Congo, and they all can attest to what a beautiful and unique place it is. I pray and dream for the day that we can safely return there and bring tourism back. Napenda Congo 🇨🇩💖
2 weeks ago
56025
View on Instagram |
5/9
The highlight reel of Skardu, Pakistan! If you'd like the behind the scenes, see my previous posts or the story highlight! But also, yes, it really is this beautiful! Do you like pretty highlight reels or do you prefer the struggle clips? Asking for a friend...who has a lot of both... 😬
2 weeks ago
46635
View on Instagram |
6/9
The Photo VS the Moment in Skardu, Pakistan (wait for the videos after the photo) for anyone who thinks getting photos is easy, behold, freezing water, climbing on rocks, and magical geese who apparently want to be featured in the pics.! (Comment "Skardu" and ill DM you my full travel guide plus how to get notifications for the group trip next year!) What's the wildest thing you've done for a photo?? Thank you Destination Pakistan for the offer to work together and for helping get this footage so I didn't have to always use my tripod or selfie stick!
2 weeks ago
43429
View on Instagram |
7/9
Just confirming that Haveli restaurant has the best rooftop view in Lahore! Make a reservation because it's always busy and ask to sit closest to the mosque! The entire building of Haveli is beautiful and fascinating! A former mansion that's ornately decorated, and located in an area that was formerly infamous for..brothels! Now, largely thanks to tourism demand, this area of Lahore is a lot cleaner and safer than it used to be, and it offers some of the most spectacular sites to see, both from above and below! What would you rate this view from 1 to 10??
2 weeks ago
39
View on Instagram |
8/9
Made it to Skardu without any flight issues! Flights to and from the mountain region of Pakistan have a pretty high rate of cancellation due to unpredictable weather... And speaking of unpredictable weather, the reports said it would be really cold, but it was warm, so i "had to" go shopping for shalwar kameez as soon as I arrived 😍 Then it was off to the Shangri La Lake for some pink tea before making the drive to Shigar cold desert for a sunset horseback riding session, before settling into a beautiful riverfront boutique resort! Everyone says you have to go to the northern mountains of Pakistan, and now I see why! This place is magical and I only have a few days to explore! PS did you know that this region has the highest number of world's tallest mountain peaks, it has has both deserts and lakes at extremely high altitudes, and also the largest glaciers in the world aside from the polar regions?? More coming soon! Do you want to visit Skardu??
2 weeks ago
54142
View on Instagram |
9/9

Join My Group Trips

Available Group Trips

If you like [VIDEO] My Life’s a Movie in: Komodo Islandsyou might also be interested in...

Moving to Italy Was NOT Easy – Here’s What You Actually Need to Know

Ultimate Fukushima Japan Travel Guide – How to Plan a Trip to the Best Hidden Gem

How to See the Great Wall of China WITHOUT Crowds

Ultimate Chongqing Travel Tips and Guide – China’s Viral Cyberpunk City

Turkmenistan: 11 Bizarre Yet Beautiful Things to Experience

Ultimate Turkmenistan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know!

Complete Uzbekistan Travel Guide: Everything to Know

11 European Countries with Digital Nomad Visas

How to Pack a Carry On Using Travel Compression Bags

Everest Basecamp VS Kilimanjaro: Which is Harder?