ℰ.ℒ.
” In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” ~ Abraham Lincoln
“28 THINGS”
- I’m 28
- Arrived in USA in 2003 with 1 suitcase, $ 1000, without knowing anyone in US and without any help from my family – I was 19.
- Citizen of Russian Federation and a Permanent Resident of United States of America.
- Bilingual – Russian & English ( would really like to learn French )
- I’m happily unmarried & it’s complicated : )
- Turned 18 when I lost my father to cancer
- I’m a Cultural Chameleon
- Love being on the road with as less stuff as possible & embrace solo travel.
- I’m passionate about Life, cinema, photography & writing … What’s Your Passion?
- I believe in Compassion & Giving back
- I’m not good with planning, but know how to Travel The World on the cheap & got rid of a “bucket list”, TV, facebook, myspace and twitter
- I left my heart in San Francisco & Morocco, but have no interest in ever returning to Las Vegas
- Bungee jumped 111m, Walked with Lions & swam in the most Dangerous Pool in The World
- Met 42nd President of the United States & had my hand kissed by a Prince ( not the singer… although that would have been nice too )
- Traveled by several crazy Kenyan Matatus & danced with Maasai Warriors
- Got tangled up with a Python, swam with a Dolphin & danced with a Cobra
- Played harmonica with an Elephant while being on his back
- Got up, close and personal with Monkeys & did ceremonies with locals in Bali
- Zip-lined at the Original Canopy Tour in Costa Rica
- Almost got married several times and one of them was to a beautiful woman
- Worked on a few Hollywood films , modeled & member of SAG – AFTRA Guild of America
- If you are a producer or director of the next film about Mata Hari, Cleopatra, Phoolan Devi, Isabelle Eberhardt or Elizabeth Zarubina, give me a buzz.
- Attended all major Hollywood Red Carpet events. ( and would trade all that for RTW ticket in a second )
- Persuaded a manager of the bank to open it on a Sunday morning in Zanzibar, Tanzania & checkmated Harvard graduate after a few moves (my father would’ve been very proud)
- Things I love ; coffee, dancing, people watching, honest films, ARTIST’S , antiques & Blues. But not a fan of shopping & beauty salons — I do my own hair, nails and make up, thank you very much. When I do buy something I choose to do that & donate in places such as these — Shopping that helps save peoples lives.. instead of feeding a
multi-billion dollar industry. You will never see me in a thousand or even hundreds of dollars anything! If I do receive such items as gifts I choose to donate them to people who need it more than I do. I am a true Minimalist ~ My closet is always half empty.
- Quit smoking “cold turkey” in 2008 after smoking for 10 years and have been smoke free ever since. (however, I do miss a good cigar sometimes)
- Stepped over the railing at “The Peak” in Hong Kong.
- Spent my 28th Birthday in the highest dunes of Sahara in Morocco, survived sandstorm at Giza Pyramids in Cairo, Egypt, visited Hammam where Cleopatra bathed in Alanya,Turkey & reunited with my mother after 9 years.( Updated May 2012 )
“We have to become lost before we can find ourselves. That sort of map you make up as you go along.” ~ Stirling Silliphant
Social status has never been a goal or a priority of mine. I can’t tell the difference between jimmy choos and prada. To me it’s just a shiny wrapper with no substance or real value. Our world today has more important issues to deal with, than a decision making of what brand of shoes to buy this afternoon or what color the highlights should be. Agree?
We get bombarded with slogans that scream at us that we’re not good enough, cool enough, young enough, beautiful enough…fill in the blank…
You are enough! You are beautiful and unique in your own amazing way! Don’t ever let anyone sabotage or doubt that… not even yourself..
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” ~ Mark Twain
What matters at the end of the day are not things at all … It’s all those shared moments of laughter, joy, love and everything in between with people we love. It’s about creating yourself, discovering the world around us and helping each other along the way. And it’s also about dancing while the music is being played…
I’ve always wanted to write about my travels, but I was too young & overwhelmingly impatient. But it’s never too late to start again.. (let’s see how long this will last) I hope you will find some of this information useful for your own adventures.
Safe Travels to all of you free spirits out there and Bon Voyage!
Keep dreaming, keep exploring and keep following your hearts!
Namaste,
Elena Levon xo
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*** All Images, ideas and text displayed on www.mselenalevontraveling.com are protected by Copyright Laws and cannot be reproduced in any manner without written permission. If you would like to use any of imagery and text displayed on this site, you may send a request to info@elenalevon.com ***
Copyright 2011-2012. Ms. Elena Levon Traveling. All Rights Reserved
Thanks for stopping by my blog! Wow, I’ve enjoyed reading and getting to know you
It is amazing what we can do when we put our minds and heart into it. You have accomplished much already I look forward to reading about your new adventures and discoveries.
[...] Live simply, travel lightly, love passionately & don't forget to breathe ℰ.ℒ. [...]
Thanks for checking out my blog and even more for leading me here! I look forward to reading more amazing posts! Also, congratulations with your U.S. citizenship interview!
Thank you so much! Welcome to my online home!
love
el
I like the way you think, and the way you express yourself. What I feel sometimes you have written with words so simply!
Thanks for stopping by my blog in the first place.
Please keep posting, I enjoy reading what you write!
Thank you for your comment! It takes a few falls with bruises to be able to really hear yourself, see the truth and live your passion..
Thank you for reading me..
live your passion..
love
el
i got you now i saw your site before when someone else scrolling your pages. really beautifull site
Lovely, Elena. Thanks for liking my post. I particulrly enjoyed your 28th birthday adventure. I have travelled a bit, but nothing quite on that scale. I will follow your blogs with interest.
Ms Elena, I clicked over to your blog after finding out that you liked a post of mine. Wow. Thank you. You seem amazing, and write so beautifully. You pictures are amazing (as are your travels. I admit I am a bit jealous. But I still have time…) And you are Russian!? A long fascination because my grandmother was Prussian/Ukrainian. But that is too much…
Good luck on your citizenship. I am American, and blessed to be. Hope you will too.
Thank you for your lovely comment. I’m half Russian , Half Armenian.
There’s always time! Never too late to take off and live your dream!
love & light
el
Hi Elena,
thank you for stopping by my blog. I found that we have a few things in common – looking forward to get to know more about you through your blog.
Spasibo!
Yulia
Thanks for liking my blog. Loved reading your posts here…I sense and echo this undying thirst to explore the world….keep travelling…till you have seen it all… cheers !
From japan, tanks for visiting my blog. Your blog is wonderful , especially travel site.
Wonderful Blog. I enjoy and share your outlook on life and possessions. Seems almost Taoist. While your pictures are stunning, your words and thoughts are even more illuminating. I look forward to reading more in the future. Best of luck in where the road next takes you….
Hi Elena, thanx for liking my post – ur writings are really inspirational- thanx for sharing! keep it up! ohh and this is so true : “We have to become lost before we can find ourselves(…)” – then we are ready to find our way and live life to the fullest! wishing u a good WE time!
Lu’
Just stumbled upon your blog… can’t wait to read more! You seem like an amazing person who is living life to the fullest.
Great job all the way around! I am in awe of your courageous nature and your wisdom that is beyond your years. Thank you for being such an inspiration and the willingness to share your journeys with the rest of us. -Rhonda
Thank you for the like and thank you even more for leading me to this post. You’re such a breath of fresh air and a great joy to read!
Thanks so much for stopping by my blog. I am fascinated and inspired by your posts!
Your blog is inspirational. Good luck with your National test thing tomorrow ( sorry not American and can’t figure that out) – its important that America has more people like you so I will be praying for you – God will keep you in his hand. I will keep you in my heart.
Thank you so much, Megan!!
love & light
el
It’s amazing all that you have done. I want to add some of what you’ve done on my bucket list. I’m glad you found my blog that directed me to your inspiring world. I love the quote about choosing to collect memories and not on things. I’m a firm believer of that!
Cool blog…I love the title! Thanks for visiting my blog and ‘liking’ my photo!
I’ll bet you hear this a lot, but I really like your comment about collecting memories rather than things. In my early travels I collected a lot of things along with the memories, but it didn’t take me long to realize the difference. Memories are cheaper, they last as long as we do, we don’t have to worry about breaking them, we take them with us wherever we go and they don’t clutter up our lives. So much better!
Hi,
thanks for visiting my blog.
Yours is inspirational! Following….
Hi. Thanks for liking my post.
Your blog is inspiring! Love it!
Beautiful photos and words, Elena. Thank you for following… I have a feeling we may meet on the road sometime.
Fascinating blog … something to absorb (or be absorbed by) bit by bit.
Hi Elena!
Thanks for visiting our blog!
Great picts by the way
Good day God bless.
You’ve been nominated for the One Lovely Blog award!
Here are the steps for the award:
Name the blogger who awarded you this fantastic award
List 7 random facts about yourself
Award 15 other bloggers this award
Enjoy!
Wow what a beautiful blog you have. I’m so glad you liked my blog and led me back to discover your inspiring blog. I love your quotes and passion for travel and life. I look forward to devouring your posts!
Hi,
I nominated you for the beautiful blogger award!
http://elisacashiola.com/2012/05/07/the-award-goes-to/
Cheers,
Elisa
And thank you for following!!!
Thank you for liking my post. Your blog is truly beautiful and inspiring. I will be following you! BTW Happy Birthday!
Hi Elena, thanks for dropping by my blog and liking my caving post. You have a wonderful and evocative blog here which I need to read through. I’ll add you to my own blogroll and RSS feeds and look forward to reading more of your posts
Cheers from a cold and wet UK
Andy
Thank you very much Andy!
Love your posts and photos. Thanks for dropping by to my blog
This is one cool blog and you’re one cool person. Thanks for dropping by my blog so I could discover yours.
Hi! I nominated you for the ABC (Awesome Blog Content) Award. I was moved to do so because I am delighted whenever I see an email from you in my in-box. You can read about the award at http://elladeewords.wordpress.com/2012/05/03/a-community-garden-and-abc-awards/ .
Accepting awards to enable you to nominate other worthy recipients isn’t for the faint hearted or time poor, so please accept if you choose and there’s no timeframe on responding, or obligation to do so if it’s not right for you.
Best wishes,
EllaDee
thanks for the like on my post on quito, El.
Your travels are intense and your list is amazing. I can only hope life has an equaly epic path for me. Thanks for visiting my blog.
Thanks for stopping by my blog and liking my post on Viennese food! It sounds like you’ve been on so many great adventures yourself, and the photos to go with are amazing! Thanks for sharing with us
First of all, again thank you for taking all of us with you on your incredible journey, for your adventures spirit, and your bravery. Second of all, thank you for your decision to follow my flog. I am very flattered. Love and light to you, Lenochka.
Wow! I am ecstatic that I discover your blog (thanks to one blogger passing Sunshine Award to another). I’ll be a happy follower of your news on your journey. Best wishes. Yelena
Spasibo Yelena! : )
You continue to inspire me!!!
I just nominated you for a blog award… http://wp.me/p2aLEz-d3
xoxoxo
Wonderful. I do not have an adventurous spirit. I am content to be home with family and friends and presently I am loving the journey to my own soul which is incredibly vast, but the opportunity to visit your site and experience your travels and the spirit you bring with you is amazing and surprisingly satisfying. Continue to share your soul with the world. You remind us the world is bigger than our own four walls. Thank you.
Thank you for reading me.
As for your journey –
it’s far more important to have and seek the treasure that is family & friends, then just traveling… many travel in order to find what you already have..
You are very rich, my friend..
love, light & peace to you and yours..
Glad to have you in my online home..
el
Elena
thank you for visiting my blog.
You do good writing. I liked your deepness.
Удачи!
Olga
Spasibo bol’shoe Olya! : )
so beautiful!
Thanks for liking Wandrin’ Round. You have a very beautiful and inspirational blog here.
Thank you for moseying over to my space — it’s always a delight to find fellow wanderlusters and lovers of beauty. Where is your next trip to? (:
US Citizenship interview : )
Good luck! I’m sure you’ll charm the pants off of them.
Just the beginning of a life well lived …
Best wishes
Inspirational!
You’ve lived that life that I’ve imagined, to put a little spin on an old quote.
It’s not all roses ; )
Thanks for visiting the italyin30seconds blog. See that you, I and Mark Twain share a similar idea about travel! Enjoy the ride – see and savor.
Just a belated thank you for following my blog ‘gdaycanucks’.
I wouldn’t have found your wonderful blog if you hadn’t visited.
You really seem to have it all togetehr and know what’s important in life. I look forward to continuing to follow your adventures….
Thank you! but nothing is what it seems .. ; )
I’m just taking it one day at a time ..
Glad to have you on board ..
el
Happy 28th Birthday! Hope your travels went well!
Hey there, Sunshine. I’m sure you get this all the time…I nominated you for The Sunshine Award. Congrats! You’ve brought the sunshine in with you! Your friend, Stephanie@Random Acts
Beautiful girl, beautiful blog. Keep up the inspirational work
Thank you very much
love & light
el
Elena,
As I’m presently into my third full month of year-long travel (which includes an RTW), sometimes it’s not easy having to be constantly on the move without a real home to call my own. However, I’m very fortunate I’ve been to call upon friends around with whom I can stay; they’ve all been great, helpful, and understanding, and without them, this whole “experiment” or enterprise would not have possible.
Thanks for having stopped by to have a look and liking the recent “San Francisco” gallery-post on my blog.
Take care, and I look forward to reading about your upcoming journey to Morocco, Egypt, and Turkey! (re. http://mselenalevontraveling.com/2012/03/20/la-morocco-egypt-turkey-la/)
p.s. Happy upcoming 28th birthday!
Inspiring. Thank you for dropping in on my blog and leading me to discover yours.
Hey you fabulous you! You are nominated for the Academy Award Winning Writers Association for…drumroll…The Most Versatile! The Academy would like to thank you for your unending/unwavering awesomeness from yours truly @ Random Acts. Don’t forget me in your acceptance speech! Kiss, kiss, hugs all around! ….and that’s the truth!
Grattis! You have been nominated for a Sunshine Award!
https://redpantsandamustache.wordpress.com/2012/03/18/sunshine-award-the-sun-is-shining/
Cheers!
Hi Elena,
Congratulations! I have nominated your blog for the Versatile Blogger award.
If you’ve received the award previously, then know I feel you deserve another one.
Rules and other information about the award are at
http://dearkitty1.wordpress.com/2012/03/17/versatile-blogger-award-again-thanks-ann/
Thanks for liking my blog. Yours is beautiful as well.
Thanks for visiting Good Penmanship! Oh, the pre-child days of tantrum-free air travel, how I miss thee….
Hey, thanks for the ‘like’! Your blog looks amazing and inspiring – I hope to travel much, much more as well!
What a gorgeous person, and I’m not just talking about how you look. Be well fellow traveler. :0)
Thank you very much! Very kind of you.
Let there always be a road .. ; )
el
I’m so glad to have discovered your blog!
likewise
Thank you for stopping by my blog. In your posts, I’ve found additional inspiration to stop living timidly.
You are a brave soul =)
Thanks Elena, same here
Thanks for the “like” on my recent! I am checking out your blog!!
Great to find you in my world, Elena. Greetings! You travel all over the world, but I never move. Amazing! In my imagination I have reached across galaxies and have rewritten the history of Earth. Each in our own ways we touch on memories that are eons old, it is our destiny to do so. I look forward to reading your blog. Kristin. Namaste
My goodness. Wonder what you will have to say by the time your are 50!
Hope I am still around then!
Thanks for liking my blog and am going to follow yours.
Jan
dawsonphotos.wordpress.com
You will be! : )
I guess I’m just going to continue walking the line the only way I know how.. ; )
love & light
el
~ I choose to collect memories instead of things ~
I love that quote and have often said the same myself. Bon Voyage and Happy Trails to you.
Ellen
http://www.unexpecteddestinations.com
thanks for visiting my blog! i just love yours! especially this bio page. i look forward to exploring your site more!
A classy, vibey site it will be a pleasure to follow.
Dear Elena,
I am probably as mesmerized by Turkey as you are (if not more). Having never been there, I can’t help but feel a tinge of jealousy.
Appreciate you liking my post. Thank you!
Cheers,
Yousuf
Love the style, the simplicity, and the substance here in your pages. I already complimented your photography, but have to do it again.
Thanks for the follow, I hope you enjoy my journey!
Also noticed you have Nick Vujicic listed as “inspiration”…You might get a kick out the photo at the bottom center of this page…
http://thf2.wordpress.com/who-is-dug/
(Nick and I in India)
Thank you Dug! So kind of you. I love what you are doing! That photo is great btw! : ) would love to meet him someday.
namaste
el
That is an amazing list of experiences. Thanks for sharing!
Thats a pretty incredible life. Kudos and hope your adventures continue.
El-
Like your style Elena! Ann
Hi Elena, way to go! Love how you describe yourself in a list rather than prose. From your description of yourself, I can exuberantly say that this world is a better place with you in it.
Thank you for reading my blog and continue loving life. Live long and prosper–Elena ^_^.
Thank you so much for your kind words!
love & light
el
Hi Elena, thank you for stopping by my “puddle.” I really appreciate it. I am so impressed by your blog, & the fact that you are from Russia (I was born in Kirov Oblast and grew up in Ukraine), & the fact that your are a celebrity!
I have a friend from Kirov : )
ps – i’m not a
celebrity..I know everything has already been said but not by me. Great, inspiring pages, El. I will subscribe and come back often.
Thank you very much! Glad you’re enjoying it.
el
My husband and I made a pact early in our marriage, when we are old we will be able to say, “do you remember when?” instead of, “I wish we had.” I turned 70 last year and we have been married 53 years. We are saying, do you remember when…” though there will always be some things we wish we could still do.
Thank you for a wonderful comment! Congratulations on an amazing union! I like the way you live! Wishing your family many more years that you can remember later! ; )
love & light
el
Thank you for posting the link to The Tao of Travel…read the list twice, it resonates with me as I prepare for Afghanistan.
Well, all I can say is, good for you to be so independent and so confident at a young age! You obviously march to your own drummer! A lot of these truths have come to me much later in life. But as they say, better late than never. Blessings on your travels! ~ Sheila
Thank you Sheila! It’s much more fun to dance to your own beat.. isn’t ? ; )
Here’s to your next amazing 50 years or so! ; )
love & light
el
Thank you! I feel like I’m just warming up! But reading your posts, I think you’re ahead of the game. You are fortunate to know yourself so early in life. Cheers! ~ Sheila
Elena, thank you so much for stopping by my, very new, blog. For one so much you have done a lot of travelling and have an open mind about the world and its indiosyncracies. I will keep following.
very honest and personal blog… I share your values and enjoy reading about your restless spirit. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much! I’m glad you like it : )
el
Beautiful !!!
An interesting, inspiring story! your’re welcome and you really should put The Netherlands on your list aswell.
I love your posts, it’s nostalgy for me to see all those stunning places you have visited too!
Good luck on your travels!
Thank you! I will try to do that! love & light el
Thanks so much for stopping by my blog—I am so happy to have discovered yours—it is really lovely! Looking forward to visiting often.
flattered that you read “windmills” and liked it. thanks for the read and the endorsement.
Wow,very nice and inspiring blog…i hope i could learn how to be a good writer. Thanks much…..
thanks for visiting my blog. Your interests are very much like mine but I’m not as dedicated as you are to traveling or blogging! I enjoyed your photos, too, but mostly, your sense of adventure.
Thanks for liking my blogpost ! I’ve read the 27 things about you, what an interesting life u have ! Keep up the positive vibe. Cheers
Marvelous! I admire your attitude and the great joy you choose, find, create and share in your life.
Namaste!
Kathryn
I like your list, I couldn’t help but wonder if you had a “bucket list”…what’s next?
Thank you : )
.. would really like to step on all 7 continents, have one of my photographs published in National Geographic, learn French, play Mata Hari in a film & maybe even write & publish a book someday.. and of course continue helping as many people as I can .. how’s that for “next” ? ; )
love & light
el
Good goals,the toughest one is probably Nat Geo, good luck with Antartica too!
Thank you. Yes, none of those goals are easy.. That’s the point ; )
Thanks for liking my Lincoln Highway: Wyoming post. Your blog looks great—your thoughts about traveling when young led me to think back to a hitchhiking trip I did across Europe when I was 18. It was wild and unpredictable, and it was great.
Rock on!
–Tim
I agree! I agree! Beautiful words, pics, travels and inspiration. Thank you!
Great Blog!
Thanks for taking a look at “Wild Tales of…”, and liking the D.C. post! I love how you are living such an adventurous life!
happy trails…
-K
Elena…..life is a precious gift. Live….is both a command and a verb. Thanks for following that and sharing your living in such creative ways.
Inspiring !
AN.
Wow, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! All the best as you continue on your journey and live life to the FULLEST! Bless you!
Your blog is incredible! You have SO MUCH going for you!! I’d love to meet you one day!
Kudos (:
Hi Elena,
Thanks for liking my post. I have taken the blog post your liked down temporarily, as I have issues with my employer and my writing may cause more trouble for me (I still work full time).
You are quite the writer yourself and seem to have a strong drive for life itself, very inspiring. Safe travels!
Elena,
Thanks for visiting my blog and liking my recent post “Foreign Exchange” Glad it led me to your blog. I know I will be back here to visit often. Good stuff!
Great blog! Your inspiration further inspires me. Thanks for visiting my blog.
Neat!
Hi El thank you for stopping by. Your blog is wonderful and can’t wait to start reading about all your adventures.
I like how you give us bits of info about yourself. I envy you for traveling in so many countries at a very young age! What a brave heart you’ve got! Keep up the good work! Thanks btw for stopping by my blog!
Elena,
I concur with petrel41. Why don’t you install a like button for your posts?
Because I don’t want my simple & clean blog to become a mirror of a facebook page. Hope that answers your question.
Yes Elena. You are absolutely correct.
Elena,
Your introduction is awesome and very inspiring. Is it okay if I do a write up about you in my blog when time permits?
Thank you for your kind words. Go ahead, i don’t mind.
love & light
el
Elena, I thank you for your prompt reply. It might take some time for me to write an article about you since I have launched a new blog “Inspirations” (http://tvaraj2inspirations.wordpress.com/). If you can find time, please visit this blog.
hey el, thanx 4 liking my post. really loved your writing
Hi Elena, thanks so much for liking my Gambian birds blog post!
I would love to give you more “likes” but unfortunately, as far as i see, there are no “like” buttons on your blog.
What a wonderful page! So simple, but powerfully honest. Many great philosophies and ideas to keep in mind about life and living. Its easy to have a life, but much harder to really live it.
hey Elena
you speak from the heart & soul
your blog is like a Hindi Zhara record
thanks for the “like” ping on the “How To Sleep On A Plane” post on my blog
may you continue your journey seeing yourself through the people you meet & places you go, enjoy every present moment
pascal b.
Nice to meet you, thanks for reading my lists because now I came to see your amazing blog and all your great writings and photos, very nice.
Elena, thanks for reading my post. Your description of yourself in 27 sentences is amazing. Look at me just a year younger than you, and haven’t done anything so magnificent. I am not an adventurous soul but I do love to travel and have done a fair bit of it.Your post is very inspiring. Thanks!
Also like you, I don’t know the difference between Prada and Jimmy Choo
Thanks for liking the post! Your blog and quotes are very inspiring and wonderfully strong! Looking forward to go back reading your latest adventure
Again, as others have said … your blog is wonderful! Oh, and Thanks for following “Eyes of the Mountain”.
Thank you for visiting my blog. You are amazing … I admire your courage and your attitude …great blog!
Leena
Wonderful words, El! I got goose bumps!
Very VERY inspiring!
I love your list El. You had done and seen so much! I hope one day I can definitely say/write the same
Carpe Diem! Kindred spirits in travel! Peace.
Thank you for stopping by “Eyes of the Mountain”.
Your life and blog are fascinating. I’ll be back!
I love your blog… very funny lady, awesome pics, and very inspiring travel log.
Thank you! I love your photos! would love to see more!
ps – u r gorgeous and very talented!
el
Wow! Impressive!! You’ve made me want to add a few more things onto my bucket list
Thanks for the like too.
That made me smile!
You’re gorgeous my dear! Kindred spirits.
I going to live through you now. You are my hero. Keeping living life to the fullest.
And I wish you to live to the fullest as well!
love & light to you
el
Good for you Elena!
I have never had and will never had a Facebook or Twitter account and receive endless ridicule for it. But life is for living, it’s not about burying your face in little screens
amen to that!
I like
Will look forward to reading more!
Oh, my! Your bog is amazing. I’ve just entered the blog world on more of a personal basis rather than only business as previously. I have a feeling I’m going to be hooked to your blog.
Welcome to my online home, Joyce! Mi casa su casa ; )
love & light
el
Wonderful! Such joie de vivre!
Wow!
That’s an awesome adventurous life you have. I need to step it up and do that. Great post!
Excellent writing of some remarkable facts and beliefs. It made me smile!
Thank you for the “like”! I loved reading your “27 Things” and look forward to reading more about your travels! Peace!
Hi Elena, Wanted to say thank you so much for following my blog and that I am following you as well. Love your great posts
I really enjoyed this post…you should write a book! Btw, thanks for checking out my blog!
perhaps someday i will : ) glad you’re enjoying my site
el
Interesting About Me … Anyway, I am impressed with your travel stories (I did some browsing before I landed here.) more so of the fact that you are one daredevil woman. You just made my balls shrink because of that photo of yours — the one showing you did bungee jumping. Kudos, Madam!
hahaha thanks for making me laugh! : )) yeah, that bungee was the one the girl fell from a couple of months after my jump..
el
oops … thank for pointing that out. still, you rock!
I mean, thanks!
I enjoyed looking at your blog, what a delightfully adventurous life! Thanks for the inspirational quote. Looks like you’re missing South America in your life, plan on going any time soon?
Thank you! Yes, will be visiting soon hopefully.
el
Thank you for liking my “Road to Ricardo Brig Casarico.” I have a friend who lives in Italy and hope to visit one of these days. And I wish I could travel more but I have never regreted any trip I have taken. Love the travel experience! Your blog is inspiring – I will be traveling back to it! Happy traveling. I like your attitude.
Elena, you are my new hero.
“Ya Ponimayoo.”
Spasibo bolshoe! : )
lena
Thank you for inspiring me!
Thank you for reading me ; )
el
All I can say is beautiful. Keep sharing! Namaste
Hi Elena, thanks for liking my blog about “Durham Doorways” and helping me to find you, you have made my Saturday morning breakfast as I sit here basking in the sheer energy and “glow” of all that you are about! I am going to subscribe so I can keep enjoying what you have to share.
Thank you so much El, for liking my post.
You have a great blog, and website!
It’s a pleasurable journey going through them; now, I find more meaning as I travel and travail, to places and spaces…
Cheers!
I enjoyed getting to know you this evening through your bio-personal history. Thank you for the like at http://www.corinthrose.wordpress.com, Elena. Also, I like the name “Elena”…it was my great grandmothers.
Greetings, El!
As Morcheeba said: “…just enjoy the ride…”
Thank you and good traveling!
beautiful blog, beautiful sentiments. You’re a wise soul and happy traveler. I’m glad you enjoyed San Francisco so much, though it doesn’t surprise me.
Thanks for stopping by my Vancouver trip, it is quite a lovely place.
There is so much good stuff written above, it makes we wonder how all the dull people can cope with day to day drudgery. Travel, it’s all about the journey, not the arrival. My recent holiday to Sweden was fun, but the journey home in heavy snow, and freezing temperatures was exhilarating.
Have a fun weekend (I think you will).
Hi there!
We both share passion for travel, not planning & coffee : )
Agree, that it is all about the journey, not just travel, but life itself. Every person has a story to tell and every person is on their own unique journey. That’s what always fascinates me about meeting other people.. is their unique story.. No life is dull, each road is full of magic, one just have to learn to walk with eyes and heart wide open.
love & light
el
Just stopped by to say thanks for the like on my post. Love your philosophy and your style and look forward to reading more of your adventures.
Thank you! Glad to have you here !
el
What a unique way to write about yourself. Thanks for liking my post. I look forward to reading more about your take on the world through your travels.
Thank you Molly! Welcome aboard ! ; )
love & light
el
“I choose to collect memories instead of things”….I really love that. A personal ritual that I have when I travel is to bring back the music of the place, when I hear it there, instead of physical things…a violin concerto from Poland, Verdi from Italy, a local band from Costa Rica. Then, when I am home, and I playback the music, the memories associated with the location come rushing in. You seem like the same kind of person. Cheers to you and your personal, memorable, unique style that is all your own…
Thank you beautiful!
wow! It’s a wonderful way to keep a piece of that country! I do that too sometimes : )
love & light you you!
Thank you for your kind words.
May there always be a road ..
el
You were so kind to visit my blog and even like it. I appreciate it. In reading through yours I can only say I wish… I wish I had been so bold, beautiful and self-aware at 27. I love your spirit and attitude, it energizes me. Thank you for that gift.
Thank you so very much for your kind comment..
I’m so happy that coming to my blog is such a positive experience for you! — This means more to me than any “blogger award” “book deal” or “being freshly pressed” put together!!
Welcome to my “online home” ! Mi casa su casa ! ; )
ps – You ARE all those things and more!!
love & light to you and yours!
el
Thanks for the like and wow you are a busy girl! Such a unique site.
Take care,
Chala
Thank you Chala! Just trying to live my passions now ..
love & light
el
What an interesting life you’ve led! Really enjoyed reading about it
I know, can’t believe I made it to 27 : ))
love,
el
Elena! Thanks for visiting thenewvernacular! Glad you liked the post… looks like you’ve had plenty of adventures of your own. Have you been on a game drive before?
Hi there!
Yep, I’ve been on a game drive..in the Masai Mara National Reserve. You can read all about it in my Kenya post. http://mselenalevontraveling.com/2011/11/16/kenya-solo/
let there always be a road..
el
Hi, thanks for liking my blog post on Gambian birds (there will be more).
All the best for your blog!
My goodness, you are a busy woman! Definitely write about your adventures.
I really enjoy your blog!
Although I haven’t been to many different countries, I love to get out and explore the wilderness here in the states…and it’s great to see that there are more people that like to solo.
Thanks for reading and helping to support my blog. I’m just starting out and it’s reassuring to see that people are reading and enjoying.
Thanks again and happy travels!
Hi Elena!
Thanks for reading and liking my recent post regarding my trip to Batanes
. And your list of 27 is quite an entertaining read!
Good luck and safe travels. Again, thanks for stopping by the blog.
I love this. I’ve been to Tanzania and Zanzibar too, and have traveled extensively… so I completely adore your 27 things
Inspirational.
LOVE your list of 27 things! Fantastic, funny and makes me want to read more of your writing! Thanks for stopping by my blog! I will definitely read more of your posts…
Namaste from India…thanks so much for liking and encouraging a beginner…really inspiring thoughts here…enjoyed your blog…would love to get feedback on my future posts as well…Enjoy and take care
write from your heart
namaste
el
Hi Elena! Thank you for visiting my blog. I really like yours too
couldn’t find the “like” button, so I clicked “follow” instead 
I see you are a globetrotter like me and lived through a lot of drama too. Nice to meet you – so equal and yet so different! You are a nice inspiration.
cheers!
the “like” button reminded me too much of
FB.. I’d rather hear people speak their mind ; )so thank you for doing that ..
love & light
el
ps – we are are united in our differences
Thanks for reading my blog posting, “Sometimes It’s Okay to Take the Wrong Bus…” and for liking it. I loved your post “27 Things” as well. Great outlook on life! I feel pretty much the same, except I love my Facebook as it keeps me connected when I am on the road. Pleased to make your acquaintance!
You have a great story and a passion that is admirable! And I love the photos!
Hi Elena,
great blog you have.
We would like to thank you for your interest in our straw bale hotel. Actually, my mothers name is Elena. We are Greeks.
Wish you all the best and a lot of success with your writing.
Greetings from Switzerland
Louis
Thank you very much Louis! Would love to visit Switzerland someday!
Efharisto para poli!
el
Wow!
You are a brave young lady with an inspiring message. Best to you.
Thank you Jim!
I wish you all the best as well! Nice to have you here, in my “online home”
el
Hi pretty lady! Even though I’ve only “known” you for a short time, you have definitely inspired me, so I would love to honor you as I have been with the Versatile Blogger Award: http://6monthstolive.wordpress.com/2012/02/13/honored-humbled-part-2/ Keep up the beautiful writing and insights into life!
You should read our Russian story, and let us know what you think of it. We tried to get a naked photo at the Red Square but we didn’t think it would be worth spending a night in prison.
guys, you’re hilarious! I was laughing a lot through your post! But come on, not all Russian girls like MD! : )) You know, if you paid $$$ to a cop, I’m sure he would be ok with turning his back for a few minutes, while you take that shot…
Oh.. mother Russia.. how forever misunderstood you are…even by those you gave birth to..
But hey, you learned how to cook Borsh and survived our glorious train rides .. If you can survive in Russia.. you can do it anywhere !
Let there always be a road..
el
I am loving everything you’re writing about and living! I can’t wait to read and explore more. Would you be at all interested in doing a guest blog for my site about one of the many places you’ve traveled? Maybe about Russia?
But no pressure–I’ll continue to follow your blog, regardless.
Dear Sarah, Thank you so much for reading and for your invitation to write a guest post..
I am sooo new at this .. just trying to keep up with my own blog.. I’ve only posted 20 posts.. It’s kind of a crazy time for me right now, as I’m juggling a few big projects. ( I have no idea how people keep up with all of their social networks and manage to get something done ) But maybe when I’m more fluent with this wordpress thing and when I have more free time.. I’d love to write a guest post, although I have never done so before.. I think I’m just better at writing only when I really feel it.. ( I’m sure you can relate )
ps – I am following you and it’s cool that we chose the same theme.. I like it, it’s clean and simple and you can’t really “hide” behind the hustle and bustle of too much distraction .. it’s right to the point.. kind of like just a pen, paper, a few photos and your soul..
my kind of theme – Simplicity without clutter and noise.. perfect place for writing ; )
love & light
el
Thanks for stopping by my blog! I look forward to following yours!
Nice photographs. Grab the lion by the tail.
To doing the opposite of what we’re told,
-Joseph
Oh, and you like that quote from Mark Twain too! what a coincidence
hi, i like your list, especially no. 5. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi,
Thanks for stopping in and signing up! Love your journeys.
Photography and writing are two of mine too. I’m also currently traveling round costs rica with one small item of luggage. A simple carry on back pack. I was nervous at first but it’s working out perfectly. Maybe I even still have too much!
I love traveling lightly ! It’s a true art! ; )
el
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my recent post ‘The appeal of surreal photography’ – I’m delighted you like it!
I love your bio by the way… it provides readers with a telling glimpse into what I imagine is the real you!
I’m off now to browse your blog further – thank you for assisting me in finding it, a happy discovery.
Best wishes,
Susie
)
Thank you Susie for your kind words. I really do love photography and I’m glad I came across your blog.
el
Hi,
I got here after you liked my article on Poland (thank you for that, by the way). From what you wrote you have to be an amazing person and I feel like we would get along, so I will definitely be coming beck here!
Thank you! Glad to have you here.. enjoy !
el
you are amazing!
I nominated you for the Versatile Blog Award. Not sure if you’ve been nominated before or if you have the time for it…but wanted you to know I enjoy your blog!
Thank you so much beautiful! It means a lot to me. I’m just so not good at all the awards thing..
The fact that you and others come here and read notes of this nutty lady, is so much more to me than any kind of award.
and I thank you for that!
I have met and continue to meet extraordinary souls here and that’s more then I could have ever asked for.
love,
el
ps – heard about Ms. Houston today…. so sad… : (( I cried .. still in shock.. I loved her so much and knew her songs by heart..
life is so fragile..
Live Your Passion
Thanks very much for your support with The North Terrace Colonnade @ Kensal Green Cemetery….
Thank you, loved to see your blog!…
Hi Elena! You have traveled to so many beautiful places
I’m a traveler myself! I can’t wait to look at your pictures, especially Europe and Africa! Thanks for visiting my blog!
-Adri
So glad to have stumbled upon your blog today! Simply beautiful.
Hi Elena. Thanks for liking my blog. Just read through your list of 27 things. Made me smile. You are certainly not typical Russian. All the Russian women I know would die if they couldn’t go to a nail parlour
You are definitely eclectic. Keep it up 
This made me laugh! Russell, you are right on the money with that remark! ( sorry ladies, but Russell spoke the truth ) My boyfriend said ” you know, u r pretty amazing.. cause women who look like you, can’t even tie their own shoes ” : ))
Amazing I stand .. and modest .. of course ..
el
ps – when I say I’ll be ready in 5, I actually mean that
Inspiring stuff! Thank you for liking my blog, from one like minded spirit to another!
El,
I ‘ve been inspired by the same Mark Twain quote and it ‘s resulted in my experiencing something not too dissimilar from your “I’m not good with planning” sentiment. It ‘s far more important to learn how to appreciate where one is (meaning especially who is around) without becoming engulfed by such a place — in other words, find people, find beauty and learn from them (record notes as needed).
Shukran,
JRL
Thanks for the like on my post you have a beautiful blog!
El,
What comes through in your writing is your enjoyment of life.
Stay true.
thanks for following me, you have very similar world views, nice to see there are more people like us out there, keep on walking, keep on exploring…
Dear El,
Thanks for liking my pictures I share your passion for cinema, art and photography!
After reading your bio list I hope I run into you in my next life. Thanks for liking my comic. I’m honored.
What a beautiful blog! I can’t wait to read more
Never mind, World’s most danger pool right here. Fantastic story!
Thanks for liking my Drop Dead post.
Hi, thanks for dropping by and enjoying my entry on my trip to Jeju/ Korea. I like your self-introduction!
Love, Yanni
the best “about me” I have ever read! Quite Inspirational
Keep up the good work!
Hello! Thank you so much for finding my blog. You are aesthetically and intellectually stunning. It has always been my wish to visit Turkey and Morocco but I shall wait for your wonderful posts about them. Hopefully, I’d make it there soon.
Beautiful blog, Elena – thank you.
I wanted to be Mata Hari when I was a little girl!
Amanda Carmen @ TasmanianTravels
Thank you Amanda! yep, that Mata Hari is one hell of a chick : )
What an excellent blog! And I’m totally with you on Thing #12. What happens in Vegas can stay in Vegas, as long as I don’t have to stay with it!
Thanks for the like on my trip to Mars! Can’t wait to hear more about your travel adventures.
Love your blog so glad you stopped by mine
Hi El,
Thanks for liking my blog. Else I wouldn’t have stumbled onto this wonderful blog of yours. This ‘about me’–>totally awesome!
Also, lovely name, elena.
Namaste,
Sangeet
Thanks for liking my blog – lovely to read yours, love the energy and engagement with this great planet x
Elena, you sound like a beautiful person inside and out (out, as proven by your photos!). I’m so glad you came by my blog because now I can follow all of your adventures. Also, I love the Stirling Silliphant quote you used. Never heard it before, but I completely agree with it. Anyway, you are my newest inspiration
Emily, darling, thank you for your warm words. I’m glad you’re on board with me on my journey! Glad to have you ! : )
namaste
el
I have nominated you for the Versatile Blogger Award. Information about the rules (which are really simple) can be found here:
http://girlfridaymakesgood.wordpress.com/2012/02/07/honey-i-was-nominated-for-the-versace-blogger-award/
You may have already received this award, I just wanted to show my appreciation for your blog! Thanks!
Thank you so much darling! Thank you for letting me know that you enjoy it. It’s very nice of you to include my blog, but I really am not good at this type of thing.
namaste
el
Love this blog and your outlook on life and travel! Thanks for liking my post and bringing me to your site!
Amazing that you came to America all by yourself — good for you. I’m jealous of your travels as well. keep up the great blog
)))
Coming here was one of the most riskiest decisions of my life, but also the most rewarding one. It’s really hard not having a family to fall back on to for almost 9 years… it teaches you to be rock strong. No diploma is going to give you that kind of confidence & strength. Even though my life has taught me a whole lot of lessons along the way.. and then some, but I have made a conscious choice a long time ago, to never give up on my soul, truth and compassion.. and for that, I’m truly grateful.
Don’t be jealous darling ( it’s not all roses.. I promise you that!! ) .. you can do anything! … the world is at your fingertips..
love & light
el
Miss Elena.
I think I’m in love with you. But I do fall in love all the time.. which is good for both of us; me because its fun and you because that way i’m less creepy!
Anyway, you’re pretty and interesting and self-reliant and totally had me hooked even before the Mark Twain quote. I’ll be reading!
Oh darling! I’m blushing now.. and my bf is very jealous : ))
Thank you for sharing your spirit .. Will be reading u as well.
Wow, what an exciting life you lead! Thanks for taking the time to stop by and like one of my pictures
Elena … You are an inspiration. I leave for a week in Barcelona today and feel I might be just a little braver about trying something different because of what I’ve read of you. In recent years I’ve been plagued with anxiety issues related to PTSD and adrenal fatigue. This has really slowed me down and forced me to “play it safe,” but with help I’m gradually addressing these issues and things are getting better. I turn 50 this year and my goal for the years I have left, whatever number that may be, is to thrive, not merely survive. I’m going to follow your blog because I have this feeling you’re going to inspire me to do just that. … Having said that, you won’t find me wrestling with a python any time soon …
… Thanks for visiting my blog “Eyes to Heart” and for clicking the “like” button. Be well … Dorothy 
Dear Dorothy,
Thank you for sharing your story! You are a remarkable woman! Don’t ever forget that.. and if you do even for a second, come back here .. I will remind you.. ; )
Playing it safe only makes your soul smaller.. I’m so happy that you have courage and strength to turn your life around. I applaud you!
Thank you again, for your kind words and don’t ever give up, beautiful!
I only have to correct one little typo here .. “And my goal for the next 50 is … ” ; )
love & light to you!
el
ps – when is your big day?
Everything you have written, I agree with. So glad to meet you. Wishing you the very best in your life’s journey.
What a colorful life you live, El. Thanks for the like. My world is pretty small and unchanging compared to yours. I sure like the design of your blog. Best wishes!
I love how you described yourself here.
And I agree with you. It’s not the material things that matter but the memories we have made and shared and the number of lives we have touched.
I am thankful that I am able find another “happily unmarried” woman who believes that life is to be experienced. Let’s never stop following our dreams. Let’s do this!
By the way, do you have any plans of going to the Philippines? Let me know, I might be able to show you around.
Aubrey, lets! : )
thank you for “getting it” ..
I love being Happily Unmarried. I’d rather be that then ” unhappily married ” ( 90% of marriages ) I might get married someday.. but .. I doubt that anyone is capable of getting me that drunk .. ; )
I would love to visit Philippines in the near future and hope you will be able to show me around!
namaste
el
Great stuff El, I wish you well and am sure that you will realize it.
Richard
Biggest difference…The rise of buildings everywhere I’d say plus a flow of people from other parts of the world for business on the island. You can still find though things that are associated to CY from the old days when you go outside the main cities.
If you do decide to make the journey feel free to drop me a message, I might be around
oh wow..
you know what I miss most about Cyprus? … “Loukoumades” !!!! Oh how I miss them!! ..
Loukoumades…ah yes..my grandma makes them really good, memories..Do you speak greek btw? You seem to remember quite a few words.
I’m forgetting it .. my Russian is also not as good as it’s used to be .. I really would like to learn french.
I love number 12. This is a great blog.
Never stop; I’m looking forward to your 54 things.
BTW, I moved to Colorado in 2005 . . . I never knew what I was missing. We can often say that about many places (Hawaii and Alaska are my two others . . . so far), but at least for now I can’t envision living elsewhere. I liked your write-up on it, and I agree about the air.
Thanks for visiting my blog.
Thank you. Your comment made me smile : ) .. I can’t even begin to imagine number 54 .. but time flies so fast that.. i might be writing about 57 things (if i’m lucky) sooner than i think.
It was my first time in CO and the first thing I noticed was the air.. I couldn’t get enough of it .. hoping to visit it in the summer too.
Yeah, I used to not be able to imagine 58 (my current “thing”).
Now I think at 58 i’m still pretty young . . . err . . . not pretty (never was). Thing is, whenever I go by a mirror, and when I happen to look at it, it takes me a few seconds to figure out the old geezer staring back is me. That whole thing about inner beauty shining through? . . . not so much.
But don’t worry; you look like you’ll age gracefully.
gave me a chuckle..
but seriously age is just a number! You’re not old.. you’re experienced! ; ) and that, you can’t buy ..
A few words on aging gracefully; On my bedside table I have a wonderful card, that reads ;
I’m not easily impressed. . . but that’s imperssnig me!
Your intro is very inspiring. You have accomplished so much with such pain at an early age. You should give yourself full credit for all that you have and are. You sound like a beautiful person.
Thank you dear.. very kind of you. I actually chocked up when I read your comment..
love & light to you.
el xo
Thank you for visiting my blog and liking my post. It is a privilege to have something liked from someone like you. Your list of 27 things just brought me in awe of your spirit. I admire what you represent.
P.S where in Cyprus did you study?
Thank you so much for your kind words! I studied at the American Academy in Larnaca.
love & light
el
Very nice. I’m mixed race, one part being cypriot from Limassol. Enjoy your future trips and keep sharing them!
Love Limassol! Oh you cypriot guys!! .. Panaya mu, Panaya mu ! ; ) What’s the other part? So many of my school friends are still in Cyprus.. will be great to go for a reunion up there sometime as well.
I see you remember some essential phrases still
The other part is from palestine. Was born in bulgaria raised in Cy, currently living in London 
When was the last time you went to the island?
ha ha, i could never forget that phrase even if I tried! heard it too much .. usually directed at my la vida loca life : )) I was baptised in Sofia. damn .. you have moved around.. but that’s great; you have multi-culture education which is more valuable than any diploma! I love London! So many of my friends live there. The last time I was in CY was 1999.
Yes, Panaya mu and koumpareare easily the most used phrases in Cy
I was born in Sofia! I do agree with you though, having a multicultural educationgives you so much more than any diploma could. In general Traveling does. London is great but not a place I would spend all my life for sure. Doing a solo trip to Cuba in march so that should be fun! you should visit CY though, a lot has changed since 1999 
Would love to see Cyprus again.. I’m sure it has changed .. what’s the biggest difference?
Have an amazing trip to Cuba!
safe travels,
let there always be a road..
Very inspiring, thank you for stopping by my post
I look forward to reading more of yours in the future
Thanks for clicking the ‘like’ button. Lovely blog. I believe that people who love to travel are blessed. Collecting memories and learning about others allows a person to look back on a life well lived.
so very true, couldn’t agree more.. thank you for kind words.
el
I want you to know how much “What’s your passion?” resonates within me. I accept and take it in as a whole, yet I focus in on specific passages tht seem to be written specifically for me. Thank you so much.
I would like to share something with you, that I have had for many, many years. Something similar to “pasion” in that it can be taken in as the whole and be zeroed in to it’s parts:
Centering With The Inner Master
Be at peace with yourself and
You will be at peace with all you meet.
When you’re not at peace with yourself, be alone.
Balance yourself, or seek guidance from a natural source.
Fill each day with a joy of living, and your mistakes will be
Transformed into lessons for your awareness.
Love the spirit within each person and action.
Dwell on negativity, and you will draw it to you.
Dwell on the light and you will lift yourself.
Serve in whatever way you can without expecting reward.
Expectations lead to disappointment and hurt feelings.
Your reward is your joy in doing.
Set aside a time each day to attune to the spirit.
For it is that attunement,
That brings you joy, harmony and love.
All else is illusion.
Seek perfection in the spirit,
There is no perfection in the physical.
Be patient, tolerant, and loving. Above all, accept.
For, it takes time to grow into your Godhood.
Be grateful for the lessons of each day.
Give thanks for the many opportunities you are given for growth.
Love yourself, and you will love all creation.
-Joy Irene Lasseter
Thank you again and peace,
Mike
Mike, wow!! Thank you so much for sharing this! These are truly inspiring words… so very true .. every word.. every single word. Thank you.
namaste
el
thanks for liking my post. so happy to have discovered your blog! everything’s so inspiring
Maybe you’d like to try to visit the Philippines someday. I’m a filmmaker from there. Hope to work with you someday 
martika
I would LOVE to visit Philippines! I haven’t been there yet. Would be great to work together.
el
beautiful words you seem to be connected with light !!! enjoy be in the present, love and peace!!
Stefen K
Thanks for liking my Tagaytay post…By the way, I love your blog! Really cool…………..
~ I choose to collect memories instead of things ~
love it!
Me too…I will rather collect memories than things……….
I am truly humbled my vortex has brought you to me! You are the fulfillment of my vision for my blog! I hope to have one as amazing as yours!
Namste,
Z
Thank you beautiful! Likewise! And you will! Even better one!
love & light, always,
el
Inshallah! {Universe willling!}
It is nice to get to know you through your blog, El. Keep blogging, keep traveling
Thank you for stopping by! I love reading about your adventures as well. You take amazing pictures!
love & light to you and your family,
el
Howdy –
Thanks for stopping by my blog today. I’m glad you do, I believe I’m going to enjoy yours also…….
Hey El
Thanks for the ‘like’ on my blog…
I hate it when women I’d like to photograph are the other side of the world.
Good luck in all.
Stuart
Stuart, thank you for stopping by!
And you never know, I might be in UK or Brazil sooner than you think : )
el
My camera batteries are always fully charged….
Wow. I really love your blog. Inspirational and beautifully written!! I look forward to more!
Thank you Maggie! It’s great to meet other expats : ) Hope I can visit Spain soon! I have never been there before..
love & light to you and your daughter,
el
How fun is this? Great blog and I thoroughly enjoy your outlook, collecting lots of memories myself…………………
mexcelia
From one gypsy to another — here’s to loads of memories & less stuff! : )
Thank you Mexcelia, for your comment. I’m glad you’re enjoying my blog.
let there always be a road..
love & light
el
El, you are my role model!!! I’m thankful that the Universe brought you! I am looking forward to staying up all night reading your entire site! LOL
As a first time blogger, I literally started my blog last night, and a spiritual traveler, I am humbled that you read my blog! <3
Namaste,
Z
Oh darling thank you so much! And you are mine ; ) You have so much joy in you! I love that we share passion for road and Africa : ) I can’t wait to follow your adventures and read all about it! You write so honestly, that it’s hard not to becoming addicted to your blog! : )
Namaste
el
ps – I’m a first time blogger too, and still trying to figure this thing out.. I’m such a dinosaur when it comes to “codes” and html and other stuff .. for me it’s easier to solo backpack through Africa, then to write a wordpress post : ) So we are learning together.. that’s great thing!
Wow! What a compliment! I tried journaling many and it did not work! Blogging is doing wonders for my creativity, though!
See you in Cairo!
What a great blog…will be following you collecting memories and not things!
Thank you darling! Stay tuned : )
love
el
What a great outlook on life!
(PS thank you for visiting my blog!
Are you on FB or Twitter dear? Thanks for stopping by my blog. Your life is extraordinary — you should write a book. LOVE your pics!
Thank you Andi! I love reading about your adventures! You have a beautiful spirit and you are absolutely gorgeous, my dear! About FB & T – pressed on that “delete profile” about 2-3 years ago and never looked back .. : ) Don’t know about the book though… there’s so much more to do and see.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting,
bon voyage!
el
Thanks for stopping by and subscribing to my blog today, El.
It sounds like you’ve lived an incredible life so far and it’s so nice to meet someone with the same value and appreciation for travel, and life in general.
I’m looking forward to making my way through your blog and your adventures!
Katy
Thank you so much for your kind words, Katy! It’s a pleasure to have you here. I’m looking forward to following your Nomadic Storytelling as well.
bon voyage to a fellow nomad!
love & light
el
Wow! What an amazing woman you are! Thanks for following my blog, I’ll do the same with yours!
Thank you very much. Good luck with all your plans, travels & bucket list!
Bon Voyage!
el
Hi Elena,
You sound like a modern day Marco Polo, adventurous, courageous and very interesting, keep it up.
Thanks for liking my blog post.
Johanna
haha I like that! : ) Thank you for an amazing compliment, Johanna!
el
I love the words you put on your website ” What matters at the end of the day are not things at all – It’s all those shared moments of laughter, joy, love and everything in between with people we love.”
Great blog, I will visit often
JJ
http://www.jjchenphotography.com
Thank you very much! I’m glad you’re enjoying my site. Will be following your photography too! It’s amazing!
el
EL:
thanks for your compliments! I love your photo a lot, you are good at self portrait, I love those face expression, it’s characteristic and vivid.
I wish one day you can be my model… haha:)
hugs
JJ
JJ, you never know .. ; )
thank you for kind words.
el
You sound like an amazing person. Thanks for visiting my blog. I look forward to frequenting yours.
Thank you for your kind words! Enjoy the ride! I’ll be following your adventures as well.
el
la la land : ) Beverly Hills
Wishing you lots of luck on your citizenship! I was speaking to someone recently who is originally from Croatia, and she reminded me of what it means to be an American citizen and how so many of us take our freedoms and advantages for granted.
Haha. Well, if you ever make it up to SF, give me a shout out!
Thank you, Jacqueline! I hope for the best & keeping my finders crossed. I’m in love with SF and visit it often! Would love to meet up for a drink or cup of coffee : )
That would be great! I’ll let you know if I’m ever down in Beverly Hills / LA.
Please do! That would be great! I like this wordpress thing.. : )
Wow! What a life. I truly admire your candor and boldness in being honest about who you are and are not. Look forward to hearing about more of your adventures! I’m on about 20 countries now, and as I was mentioning to a friend the other day, I purposely signed up for the thicker 52-page passport when renewing, and I want to do and see a LOT in the next 10 years!
Thank you Jacqueline! Life is a great adventure and it should be filled with days when we explore our world .. one country at a time or should I say.. 6 months at a time .. ! Looking forward to following your adventures around the world too! Thank you for your comment & a tip on getting a 52-page passport .. hopefully when I’m granted a US Citizenship in around 7 months time.. ( keeping my fingers crossed ! ) this has been the longest and toughest journeys of them all ..
love & light
Happy Travels !
Hi El, thank you for subscribing to my blog
keep shooting,
Nate
Glad to have discovered your blog this morning. You are quite interesting. Love the photos, especially the lions.
Thank you for stopping by and liking my photos! : )
There was so many moments in reading this page where I smiled knowingly at your comment!
[Getting a bank open in Zanzibar on a Sunday particularly impressed me too!]
Wonderful blog, a treat, a real treat to read!
Thank you Holly! I’m now following your glorious self! You are one hell of a gal! Yep, that bank in Zanzibar was one of those stories that even if you wanted, you couldn’t have come up with.. unless it really happened : ))
love & light
EL
Beautiful blog!!! Can you pack me in your suitcase for your next trip?!
haha! Thank you darling! No problem! Come along! : ) As a matter of fact I’m traveling in March-April ; ) … there’s only 1 but .. I will only have one small backpack & camera bag. .. you see the difficulty? Thank you for reading!
love & light
EL
Hey there,
I would love to add your blog to my list of Travel Blogs link on mine; hope you can add mine too (http://wanderbugjade.wordpress.com/). Looking forward to reading more of your adventures. <3
Cheers, J
Thanks for stopping by my log. I’ve enjoyed browsing through your tales and pictures. If your ever in Sacramento let me know, I’d love to go out and shoot some photos with you.
Thank you! Will do! : )
love & light
EL
You have a beautiful blog and your writing is excellent. I really enjoy your articles.
All the best from South Africa
Thank you for stopping by! Glad you enjoying it. All my love to South Africa!
EL
Hey El
thanks for liking my post
your blog is filled with a sense of mystery about u. Keep it up! 
Solo travelling is always amazing. You can also try voluntourism, it’s superb!
Thank you! Voluntourism is great! Here are a few organizations that I support that might interest you as well. — http://elenalevon.com/html/showcase.php?showcase=10&psi=34 .. helping others is a big part of my everyday life. Thanks for visiting.
EL
Wow, you really are amazing!
)
Love your blog and intro … very inspiring
keep it up.
Thank you for reading!
You are amazing !
Oh, thank you, that’s very kind of you..
Very nicely put. It’s refreshing to read someone who seems to travel on the same planet as I do… Thanks.
Thank you! Likewise!
love & light
EL
Hi Elena – Thanks for visiting my blog…you’re right our tag lines are very similar! I love your blog too and like you…am constantly craving and have itchy travel feet! Hope to meet you some day! ~Sherry~
: ) Thank you! Hope to meet someday too!
ps – I can’t believe your age!! You are stunning! wow!
Hello…. your list is inspiring, … number 9 and 25, we’re on the same boat…
Thank you. We should have a coffee sometime then ; )
Hi Elena, I saw that you were recently in Zion. Isn’t that an amazing place? You lead an inspiring life. It’s always nice to meet another person who loves traveling. Thank you for visiting my blog. You take some amazing photos. Love your hat in the recent Colorado post.
Oh thank you so much! So kind of you to say that. I’m only trying to stay true to myself and live the life that makes me happy, not the one that’s “prestigious” or “normal” .. etc.. People who put travel at the top of their list, benefit from it greatly. Other cultures fascinate me.. always have. It is so great to meet others who share my passion for travel and share stories from the road; the happy, the sad and everything in between.. while embracing every second : )
Zion is gorgeous! Especially at night when the sky is full of stars embraced by magical stillness.
love & light
EL
A FABULOUS, FABULOUS BLOG. Live the dream!
Thank you! : ) I’m glad you liked it! Love your photography as well!
Inspirational! Glad that you enjoyed Beaver Creek so much and other parts of Colorado. Let me know when you are next in downtown Denver. I know some great unique places that I think you would love…at least from what I gather about you from your beautiful and expressive photos.
No matter where I have traveled and where I still plan to travel to, I have a heart for Denver as my “home-base”. I hope you continue to enjoy Colorado when you can.
Besos to you!
Thank you Amalia! Would love to visit Denver and now I’m really intrigued about seeing ” unique places ” that you mentioned. You are really lucky! I haven’t found that “home-base” place.. yet … ; )
Thanks for the like and subscription – you are an inspiration
Thank you back! And you are pretty amazing yourself! ; )
EL
collecting memories instead of things is a powerful statement, and indicator of who you are. thanks for liking my site. -steve miller
Thank you for your comment Steve! Your genius photography works are true inspiration! Thank you!
love & light,
EL
Your writing and your spirit are very inspiring….
I would love to read some more…
TW
Thank you very much!
Likewise!
EL
Excellent writings about yourself El! Your words are very inspiring. You have a beautiful spirit! I’m borrowing your Mark Twain quote to use on my photo blog page today.
Safe travels you to. Looking forward to your next post.
Mike
Mike, thank you so much for your words! So very kind of you!
Borrow away! It’s one of my all time favorite quotes and deserves to be shared with as many people as possible! : )
love & light,
EL
Wise words from a youngster
Thanks so much for posting. Those of us who have moved on to marriage and children long to wander free and explore. Guess we’ll have to do it in a different way!
You can still do those things!
el
tHANK YOU FOR YOUR GREAT POSTS! i AM TRULY ENJOYING THEM AND WILL TRY TO KEEP UP.