Alya Mooro - Writer &Author

Weekend With

Aug 15

Introducing Weekend With, our latest content series featuring interviews with fascinating women who love to travel. Discover how these bold personalities would spend a weekend away, from their destination of choice to their ideal travel companion. Come along for the ride as we explore unique perspectives on the art of traveling. Whether you're a seasoned solo traveler or simply curious about new destinations, Weekend With promises to deliver insightful and inspiring travel stories that will leave you yearning for your next vacation. Sit back and join us on this exciting journey.

Who is Alya Mooro?

I’m an Egyptian-born, London-raised writer and author of the bestselling non-fiction book, The Greater Freedom: Life as a Middle Eastern Woman Outside the Stereotypes. I’m the founder of The Greater Conversation newsletter and community, and host and producer of the Talk of Shame podcast. I’m also currently working on a number of TV projects. I have long believed that “it’s easier to be yourself if you can see yourself,” and much of my work is informed by that belief.

Where are you going?

Los Angeles because I love it so much. I try to spend a couple of months there every year. It always broadens my mind and inspires me and I always meet incredible people there. It serves as a catalyst in one way or another, whether in my work or personal life. The sunshine doesn’t hurt, either!

Who are you bringing with you?

I love travelling solo because it allows me to do and see and eat and live however I want to. I historically find it quite difficult to put boundaries or explain/enforce my own needs and so travelling alone solves that problem perfectly. I have quite a few great friends in LA and I always enjoy meeting new people via social media when I'm abroad, so I'm not truly alone, only more able to choose who I want to spend time with - and when and where and why.

What’s your travel style?

I love being out of my comfort zone and away from home, it allows me to explore different facets of myself, and different interests. LA is so good for that, in particular because of the time zone and distance from London and everyone that I know there, because for most of the day no one else is awake! I'll go have matchas at some of my favourite spots, like the Urth Cafe, laptop or a book in tow, before visiting the LACMA, catching up with friends and dancing the night away at an underground bar or club.