Monica Landén is originally from Finland and only made her way to LA fairly recently. From as early as 13 years old, she knew she wanted to travel the world. She explored all over Europe, spent lots of time in exotic locations such as Brazil, Mexico, Australia, and Northern America.
Four years ago, in Los Angeles, she met her boyfriend, Gabriel M Padilla (Instagram @GabrielMPadilla) who shared countless interests with her. Together, they are certainly a power couple. These two got Roxy three years ago—a stunning Husky-German Shepherd mix who has been an integral part of the couple’s lives ever since.
As part of her love for photography, Monica enjoyed taking pictures of Roxy when she was a puppy and made Instagram her personal scrapbook. She wanted a single, accessible location to have all of Roxy’s photos handy. This worked very well in her favor as shortly after that, the Instagram page gained thousands of followers inspired by Monica’s journey with Roxy.
Monica’s Instagram @WithRoxy has reached nearly 200,000 followers since that time. Her creative content on Instagram shows the hard work that she puts into their page, and hence, deserves every bit of appreciation from all the fans they’ve gained through their adventures. What sets Monica and Roxy apart from other world-traveling pet influencers is their focus on personal touch and storytelling, their photos paint a beautiful story of a family who enjoy spending their time outdoors and exploring different countries across the globe.
4 Key Moments That Shaped Monica Into the Ultimate Travel Influencer She is Today:
Monica Landén applies her favorite quote of all time to her personal life, which is “we only live once, so make it worthwhile.”
1. First visit to Australia
The first key moment for Monica was visiting Australia for the first time at 13 years old. It was her decision to go there, and her parents felt like she was ready to travel on her own for the first time. Monica’s first visit to Australia made her realize her love for traveling, and how independent and self-sufficient she can be. According to Monica, if it wasn’t for this significant trip, she can’t even imagine having exploring all the unique places she’s been since. It was truly a turning point!
2. Graduating from school
This key moment may resonate with many. For Monica, graduating from school felt like true freedom for the first time in her life. The absolute freedom to do anything she wants or pursue anything she desires. It was certainly the beginning of aa beautiful journey ahead for Monica. She had the determination in her heart that came with the pressure of making something out of her life. And she definitely did! Today, she is a great influencer who shares creative content on travel, photography, fashion, family, lifestyle, and what it’s like having Roxy as a pet all into one. Monica was able to share all the things she is passionate about, and that is unquestionably a unique take on things!
3. Gabriel
Meeting her boyfriend, Gabriel, in Los Angeles was a life-changing moment for Monica. Gabriel is from the United States, and she is from Finland. Although staying together was difficult due to the geographical restraint, the gorgeous couple made their relationship work despite being from two different countries. According to Monica, they experienced living in different places together until they were finally able to settle together in LA.
4. Roxy
Roxy is Monica’s greatest treasure. Monica considers the day she got Roxy three years ago as the single happiest day of her life. It was a key moment for her because Roxy brought so much responsibility to Monica and Gabriel’s lives, but it was so worthwhile for them since Roxy has given them so much love back! The couple enjoy every moment on their adventures together with Roxy.
To follow their journey, check their inspirational Instagram accounts:
