You know, it blows my mind that so many people have yet to explore the world! There are so many people scared to take a leap and get out of their comfort zone for a little while. They are afraid of the unknown and what new experiences await them. I used to be one of those people until I started discovering my passion for photography. This is one of the reasons why I love what I do. Through the images that I capture, I’m thankful that I’m able to give others a little glimpse of what they’re missing! With just a click of the shutter, I’m able to let them peek into a part of the world that they may have always been curious about. I guess this unlimited fuel of purpose that I possess is what landed me in the elusive location of the Amazon where I’ve currently been residing for the last week or so. So it’s with my trusted (and a little dog-eared leather travel wallet that I set out on this adventure to the Amazon

It is truly like paradise on Earth here! I’m staying at the Hotel Ariau Amazon Towers, which just happens to be one of the biggest treetop hotels worldwide! Yes, I said treetops! Imagine waking up in a tree to the sight of the sun beaming down on you through the tall, lush trees. The beautiful songs of exotic birds and other rainforest wonders is the blissful reality I get to awaken to.

I was commissioned here to take some beautiful images of the various natural homes here. This would be my most unique job yet, as the homes are actually in the Amazon rainforest! I am truly honored to be in this sacred place. Usually when I am shooting for home and lifestyle magazines, I am amongst lavish furnishings, contemporary styles and breath-taking appliances. This time around, the magazine I am shooting for is going for more of a culturally authentic lifestyle appeal. Since I still have a few days to really take in my environment before I officially start work, I want to take some time and tell you guys about the adventures I’ve already had while staying at this hotel.

My Lovely Abode

Upon arriving to my home for the next few weeks, I was already in awe at what my eyes were seeing. I think every adult at some point of their lives has always wondered what life would have been like if they actually finished making their childhood treehouse. I’m convinced that I’ve seen that vision now and my inner child is very content! I loved the aged wooden look my home gave me, as well as the tree itself to always keep me company. Before completely settling in, my tour guide gave me a rundown of everything that was available to me. My treetop home included a spacious deck with benches, chairs and even a table set. Inside of my home was a beautiful canopy bed with other much-needed furnishings. The view I had was simply unbelievable and I couldn’t help but turn my jungle residence into a private set for a mini-shoot. For once, I wanted to experience shooting my own home and lifestyle environment. The finished products were nothing short of amazing. I’m thinking to include my hotel room into my portfolio as samples for prospective clients who reside in these types of areas. I may be onto something!

Attractions Galore!

Now there are a lot of great features that Hotel Ariau provides that just makes my experience here that much more memorable. Being that my hotel room is always in the jungle, it’s very convenient for me to explore the world around me. The other day, I went on an Amazon rainforest excursion with a few other tourists and saw things I could only dream about! I really gave my camera a workout while I hiked and observed the various exotic animals. I also took a canoe ride and enjoyed a beautiful night show put on by the natives.

I am so excited to professionally seize the moment and capture the lifestyle of the people who live here. By now, I hoped I’ve challenged you to think about exploring the world and just immersing yourself in the environment. If you’re feeling daring, check out the website for the hotel I’m staying at. We were put here to live and experience, so have fun! I’m off to enjoy a nice feast of Brazilian cuisine. Live life to the fullest!