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Hi! I’m Jessie

I'm the traveler behind this blog. I'm based in San Francisco, but never for long. I love a good adventure—especially those that end with a great hotel and delicious meal.

I’m also on staff for AFAR, an indie travel magazine and have spent most of my career in the travel industry. I’ve visited 45+ countries, and even lived as an expat in Malta + Madagascar. I’m well-traveled and well-informed.

Join me for unique trip ideas, hotel reviews, and insider intel for your next adventure in California and beyond.

Destination Guides + Ideas

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Shop my favorite travel gear

I’m a self-proclaimed gear-head, and have been reviewing travel gear for 10+ years. Here are some of the gear and accessories I always pack.

Baggu Cloud Bag
Thule Packing Cubes
TropicFeel Shoe
Bellroy travel wallet
Kinfield bug spray

Packing Tips + Lists

Featured
What to Include in Your Zero Waste Travel Kit
What to Include in Your Zero Waste Travel Kit

If you’re trying to reduce waste when you travel, create a zero waste travel kit. Here’s what to include, along with recommendations on how to build it from items you already own, products you need to buy, or a mix of both.

I Travel Carry-On Only—And Here Are 9 Travel Accessories I Always Pack
I Travel Carry-On Only—And Here Are 9 Travel Accessories I Always Pack

I travel carry-on only and really limit what I bring to just the necessities. These 9 travel accessories are essential enough that I never leave home without them.

A Mexico Beach Trip Packing List for Carry-On Only Travelers
A Mexico Beach Trip Packing List for Carry-On Only Travelers

Use this simple, carry-on friendly packing list to prepare for your next beach getaway to Mexico.

Stylish, Versatile, and Comfortable: The Only 3 Travel Shoes You’ll Ever Need
Stylish, Versatile, and Comfortable: The Only 3 Travel Shoes You’ll Ever Need

I travel carry-on only and these are the only three travel shoes I ever pack—no matter where or for how long I’m traveling.

How to Pack Light for Any Trip
How to Pack Light for Any Trip

Get tips on how to pack light for any trip. Whether you’re traveling for one week or one month, these tips from an travel gear pro will help you pack less.

A Complete Packing List for Hiking Japan's Kumano Kodo Trail
A Complete Packing List for Hiking Japan's Kumano Kodo Trail

If you’re planning on hiking the Kumano Kodo Trail, use these tips and packing list for the Kumano Kodo and Japan to make sure you have everything you need—while still packing light enough to travel carry-on only.