Alison Travels

Images of my life living in a van with my dog, Max

[alisontravels]

For years, I traveled without a bike because I didn't think Max would be interested in running alongside me. I hate to say it, but he's slowed down a little. This past weekend, he proved me wrong. I wanted to see if he'd have any interest running on the trail with me. Not only did he keep up, he passed me on several occasions. Just thinking about how happy he was makes the corners of my eyes tear up. When he's happy, he always has a little skip in his step and both back legs do a hop. I think it's safe to say that Max is a happy trail dog. Thank you @iamspecialized for getting us on the trail together. 🚵🏼‍♀️🐕 (p.s. - I have a video in my stories that shows why you should never follow too close behind Max on a bike. Spoiler alert- he stops on a dime to sniff the road. Lesson learned). (at Oregon)

[alisontravels]

Being on the road is filled with unpredictable moments. However, every morning, Max and I have the same "rise and shine" routine. He sleeps up in the pop top with me each night. In the morning, I get down first and he scoots to the end of the bed. Then I snuggle with him a bit (this pic is our morning snuggle time) until I stand up straight and point to my shoulder. He then puts both paws on my left shoulder so I can hold him easier for the ride to the living room/kitchen. Then we start the day … Just a little snippet of our life on the road. 🐶❤️🚐 (at Alabama Hills, California)

[alisontravels]

When I was growing up (and today), I was called a "tomboy" and now the word used is "outdoorsy," which I feel is a huge compliment. It gets me so excited to see companies being built by women who know the value of being outdoors. I just watched a video highlighting a few women entrepreneurs that I thought was extremely inspiring. How wonderful that we live in a time where companies are setting an example for young girls that being a tomboy, strong, bossy, free spirited, sporty, or determined is a good thing. I've posted the link in my profile to watch. I have NO affiliation to any of these companies or women featured. I just wanted to spread positive vibes and inspiration when I see it. ✌🏼

[alisontravels]

On the hunt for wildflowers... good boy, Max! Found one! Thanks for pointing it out, buddy. #flowerhuntingdog #wildflowers #maxtravels (at Table Mountain (Butte County, California))

[alisontravels]

Finger painted sky. I was (and still am) in awe to witness this unreal occurrence. I was lucky enough to take a time lapse of some of the magic. I have the video and other images from my winter trip to Iceland in my blog. (Link in profile). I rarely visit the same place twice but I knew I had to take a second look. Yes, just as beautiful as I remembered. (at West Fjords, Iceland)

[alisontravels]

A while back I posted a photo and asked you to submit any questions you had for me. I was amazed and humbled at how many questions you asked! I wrote them all down and compiled answers in two blogs. I just posted part 2 of 2 answering your questions (link in profile). The first blog answered questions about health, safety, social, fear and experiences. Part two answers questions about photography, Max, travel and money. Thank you to everyone who asked questions!

[alisontravels]

I'm not one for crowds but I love art and going to museums. The broad and the Cindy Sherman exhibit was exceptional. In this particular installation, you are closed in a room to stand on a platform while being surrounded by led lights and a water floor for 45 seconds. #magical #thebroad #thebroadmuseum (at The Broad)

[alisontravels]

Hiking in the cloud forest. #costarica (at Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde)

[alisontravels]

On the road somewhere in the middle of Nevada yesterday. #ontheroad #vanlife #maxtravels (at Battle Mountain, Nevada)

[alisontravels]

Snuggling up and napping with my best friend in a hammock is one of my favorite things to do. Max is such a snuggler. Ahh... the simple pleasures of summer. #itsavuarnetday @vuarnetsunglasses #laketahoe #sponsored (at Tahoe City, California)

[alisontravels]

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Morning drive in Iceland. I've written a short blog on my Iceland adventure on my website. If you'd like to read it, click on the link in my profile and go to travel blog. (Behind the scenes...Not having a fancy mount with me, I shot this by holding my breath and holding a GoPro in my mouth.) All of my images from Iceland and everything on my feed is iPhone or GoPro 😊 #iceland #vanlife #gopro

[alisontravels]

It's hard not to run around in an endless field of fresh snow. #weeee #Iceland #snow (at Skagastrond, North Iceland)

[alisontravels]

Here's something I rarely post... An armed stretched selfie with my face! Gah!! 😳 I get a lot of questions about my journey so I thought I would write a blog to answer any questions you might have. If there is something you'd like to ask, write it in the comments and I will save it to answer in an upcoming blog. It will be a blog Q&A with YOU being my interviewer. In 24 hours , I will take this photo down, but will save all of your questions to answer in a Q&A blog.

[alisontravels]

Sometimes I experience things, look back and think, "did that really happen?" What an amazing experience it was to tour around Iceland. One of my favorite trips by far. #Iceland #vanlife #sweatydirtyhappy

[alisontravels]

I hiked to the Pulpit Rock today. The hike to get to the Rock was a nice challenge. As soon as you think you are there, you're not even close. This view is the reward for the effort to make the journey. I'm not a fan of heights, but I did go out and stand on the rock. However, I didn't take many photos while I was down there. It's pretty scary. Watching people jump around and do handstands was nerve wracking to me. I think it's the steepest cliff I've ever seen in my life. #pulpitrock #preikestolen #Norway (at Preikestolen)

[alisontravels]

My main mode of transportation throughout Norway is by train. I am so used to being in control of where I'm going with a camper, but being able to sit back and enjoy the surroundings while moving has its perks. Many times, I look out the window and it's so beautiful, it doesn't even seem real. #Norway #nsb #travelbytrain (at NSB Bergen-Oslo)

[alisontravels]

One of the most beautiful railways in the world. #Norway #flaamrailway (at Flåm)