Shanari Gary

Hey everyone, Shanari Gary here! You know how much I love sharing my real-life travel experiences, and my recent trip to Calabasas was no exception. Forget the perfectly posed shots and curated feeds; this journey was all about embracing the #unfiltered and #unaesthetic moments that truly make travel memorable. I often joke that my travel alter-ego is 'Wanderlustjade' – always seeking out authentic adventures, even if they're a little messy or unexpected. This Calabasas trip definitely delivered! As Wanderlustjade, my goal wasn’t to find the most Instagrammable spots, but to truly experience Calabasas. What does an unaesthetic trip here look like? It means strolling through local farmer's markets, discovering charming little cafes tucked away from the main streets, and exploring the beautiful hiking trails in the Santa Monica mountains without worrying about getting a speck of dust on my outfit. It's about the feeling of the sun on my skin, the unexpected conversations with locals, and the sheer joy of stumbling upon something truly unique that isn't plastered all over social media. This #travelwithme2024 journey was a reminder that the best memories often come from the unplanned. One day, I found myself getting happily lost on a scenic drive, leading to a breathtaking viewpoint I never would have discovered following a strict itinerary. Another highlight was a delicious, messy taco truck meal that was absolutely divine, even if it wasn't 'pretty' enough for a photoshoot. These are the moments that truly stick with you, the ones that feel genuine and uniquely yours. My top tip for an #unaesthetic adventure, especially in a place as diverse as Calabasas, is to ditch the rigid plans. While it’s great to have a few ideas, allow yourself to wander. Ask a local for their favorite hidden gem, or simply follow your intuition. You’d be surprised what you discover when you’re open to the unexpected. And definitely make sure to pack comfortable shoes – because exploring freely means a lot of walking, and trust me, it’s worth every step! So, if you're planning a trip to Calabasas or anywhere else, I encourage you to channel your inner Wanderlustjade. Let go of the pressure to make everything look perfect, and just enjoy the journey, flaws and all. What are your favorite #unfiltered travel moments? I'd love to hear them in the comments!