'MODEL' COVER EDITION - MAY 24 ISSUE
Photos: Yan Salvatierra - @fotosyansalvatierra
Makeup: Worney Makeup - @worneymakeup
Ananda Gabriella, the stunning international model, graces the cover of the "MODEL" edition of Hooks Magazine International. With her adventurous spirit and meteoric career, Ananda is not only a style icon but also a storyteller, sharing her travel experiences around the world with her followers. In this special edition, we delve into Ananda's journey, exploring the experiences that have shaped her worldview and enriched her personal and professional life.
When asked about the most transformative experience she had while visiting a new country, Ananda doesn't hesitate: "Exploring new places makes us realize how small we are in the grand scheme of the world, but also how big we can become by discovering the new cultures of different places."
She highlights a trip to India as a turning point. Immersing herself in the local culture, with its unique traditions and values, expanded her understanding of diversity and the importance of keeping an open mind. "This experience changed my perspective on the world and made me more aware and empathetic towards different ways of living."
Although she has explored many exotic destinations, Ananda reveals that the feeling of being at home is irreplaceable. "I think we can travel all over the world, but there's nothing better than our home." However, she fondly recalls Florence, Italy. The warm welcome from the locals, the delicious cuisine, and the historic beauty made her feel an immediate connection with the city.
Exclusive Interview:
1: What was the most transformative experience you had while visiting a new country? How did it impact your life?
"Exploring new places makes us realize how small we are in the grand scheme of the world, but also how big we can become by discovering the new cultures of different places. This experience transformed me from the inside out as a human being. For example, on a trip to India, immersing myself in the local culture, with its unique traditions and values, made me realize the diversity of life and the importance of keeping an open mind. This experience changed my perspective on the world and made me more aware and empathetic towards different ways of living."
2: Is there any place that made you feel immediately at home when you visited? What made this experience so special?
"I think we can travel all over the world, but there's nothing better than our home. No matter how many new places you visit, nothing will be more comforting than your home. Remember, home is not just about your 'house,' but also about the people you love. For example, when I visited the city of Florence in Italy, the warm welcome from the locals, combined with the delicious food and historical beauty, made me feel an immediate connection, almost as if I belonged there. But even with all these wonderful experiences, the feeling of being at home, surrounded by the people we love, is irreplaceable."
3: Have you ever faced any challenges or unusual situations during your travels? How did you handle them?
"Absolutely. When I went to a restaurant in France, I didn't particularly enjoy the local food and realized that when something doesn't appeal to us and it's part of their culture, we need to be at least polite, or they might feel very offended! The tip is: just smile and nod! On another occasion, I got lost in the streets of Tokyo without speaking Japanese. I learned the importance of staying calm and using technology to my advantage. With the help of a translation app and the kindness of the locals, I managed to find my way back and turned a moment of panic into a memorable story."
4: How do you spend your free time between photo shoots and commitments in different cities? Do you have a favorite place to relax?
"Interestingly enough, the best place is always where I can lie down, with my company, and say my prayers, grateful for the opportunity of another trip or another place I was able to visit, fulfilling the dreams of little Ananda who never knew she could become so big. Additionally, I love finding small cafés and parks in the cities I visit. In Paris, for example, there is a small café near the Luxembourg Gardens where I love to spend my free time, reading a book or simply watching life around me."
5: Traveling can be an incredible learning opportunity. What is the most valuable lesson you have learned on one of your trips?
"No matter where you go, always research a bit about the culture beforehand. If you don't know the native language, learn to say the basic words so they feel comfortable when you need help. Remember, you are in their country. By being minimally polite and speaking the basics, anyone will be willing to help you. On a trip to Japan, I learned that even a simple 'please' and 'thank you' in the local language can open doors and create genuine connections with people. This lesson of humility and respect for local culture is something I carry with me on all my travels."
6: Is there any city or country that positively surprised you, even though it's not a well-known destination? What did you discover there?
"In fact, a visit to a childhood friend in Lisbon was never about the city itself, but rather about being close to people who make you feel good and recharge your energy amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, Lisbon surprised me with its charming architecture, delicious cuisine, and the warm hospitality of its residents. I discovered small historic neighborhoods like Alfama, where I could explore narrow streets and uncover the true essence of the city. The positive surprise wasn't just from the physical beauty of the place, but from the sense of belonging and comfort I felt being surrounded by loved ones in such a wonderful setting."
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