Daniela Zavala

World explorer. Emmy award winning journalist. Over 25 years of traveling solo. +100 countries & territories visited and counting. Follow my adventures!

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

A throwback to one of my favorite trips: #Thailand From solo backpacking in 2001 to honeymoon to now exploring as a family, this place never loses its magic. Beautiful, welcoming, unforgettable. Time flies, memories last forever. Watch video: https://t.co/ddS3ezxX1u #TravelTips

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

A few months ago I shared my Sri Lanka trip day by day through photos. Now here’s the full recap video of that journey 🇱🇰 From Sigiriya Rock to tea plantations, Ella, and the southern beaches, Sri Lanka is unforgettable. 🎥 Watch here: https://t.co/1EuyYuDcBR
#SriLanka #Travel

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

#Iran is a land of stunning Islamic architecture, breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities, a vibrant culture, & millennia of history. Watch this video from my trip in 2010: https://t.co/7LWjV0yW8e

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Thinking about the people of #Iran today 🇮🇷 Curious what Iran and Iranians are like beyond the headlines? I am sure the country has likely changed a lot since my solo trip back in January 2010, check out my personal experience through this blog: https://t.co/Vr88ZUUxgq

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

A last-minute road trip to San Diego to close out 2025 🌊

Beach vibes, morning runs along the coast, gorgeous sunsets, time with friends, and making memories with family

Exactly what I needed to end the year.

#sandiego #roadtrip #happynewyear #newyeareve #familytime❤️

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Exactly a year ago, we were living out a dream in the heart of the #FrenchAlps & spending a magical #Christmas in #Chamonix-#Montblanc , one of Europe’s most legendary ski destinations. ❄️⛷️ 🏔️ Enjoy this recap video of our alpine adventure: https://t.co/6Yf9KtB7IH

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Back home safe, sound, and full of gratitude after a recharging, soul-soothing solo journey across the tropical paradise of Sri Lanka.

“Life is about the adventures you take and the memories you make. So travel often and live life with open eyes and an open heart.” — Unknown

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

As we drove around #Colombo, the capital of #SriLanka, I enjoyed the fascinating mix of colonial charm & modern architecture. The city proudly displays its rich cultural heritage, from ornate temples and old buildings to bustling, colorful markets filled with energy and life.

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

With a few hours to spare before my flight, we made the most of it by exploring some of Colombo’s highlights, including the beautiful Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, founded in the 19th century. Its architecture is a fascinating blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, Chinese, and Indian styles.

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

The ride back to Colombo was scenic, along the coastline, and one last chance to enjoy Sri Lanka’s golden beaches and sip on sweet king coconuts along the way. 🏝️🥥

#srilanka #srilankatourism #srilankatravel #travelphotography #travelblogger #travel

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Chanu somehow convinced me to try the “fish therapy” at the lagoon, basically a pedicure done by tiny, hungry fish. 🐟 I was jumping and giggling while the local guys in front of me just sat there chill, letting the fish feast on their feet like pros. 🤣 #Travel

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

One of the highlights of Ambalangoda, besides its gorgeous golden beaches, is the Madu River safari. Before heading back to Colombo, Chanu and I hopped on a boat and cruised through a serene mangrove ecosystem.
This lagoon is home to over 60 small islands!
#travel

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

“It takes slowing down to hear your own heartbeat between the noise of the world.”

#Travel #solotravel #travelmoments #peacewithin #travelblogger #travelinspiration

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

The hotel staff was so kind in inviting guests to be part of a Christmas cake mixing ceremony. Being part of this local traditional was fun and moving. #SriLanka

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Beach day vibes 😂

#travel #travelblogger #travelwithme #beach #srilankatravel

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Cloudy, calm, and quietly beautiful. #SriLanka #Sunset #TravelVibes

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Meet Sharanga, a true magician! 🙌 I went all in for a full-body massage & when they say full body, they mean it! From my scalp & face to my belly & toes, every inch of tension melted away. An hour of self-care…the perfect reset before the countdown to heading home begins.

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Just 87 km south of Colombo, Ambalangoda is a charming seaside town on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast.

Famous for its golden beaches, this coastal escape is perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and watching the waves roll in.

#Travel #SriLanka

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

Made it to Ambalangoda on Sri Lanka’s coastline, a pure paradise 🌊The sound of waves, salty breeze, and lush green backdrop make it impossible not to just be.

This afternoon? Doing nothing but reading, breathing, and soaking it all in. ✨

#SriLanka #Travel #Ambalangoda

[Daniela Zavala @Dani_Explorer]

On my way to the coast and came across this sign, a first for me! 😂

I’ve seen all sorts of road warnings over the years, but never one warning about peacocks! 🦚

#Travel #travelmoments #srilanka