Jessie on a Journey

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Jessie on a Journey Adventurous solo travel blog sharing tips + resources for exploring the world . But I did. And on that note, how can I help you? Happy trails!

Have you ever felt like you weren't meant to do what you were *supposed to* do? Yea, that was me after graduating from the State University of New York at Albany with my BA/MA in Communication. It was 2011 -- before "travel blogging" was really a thing -- and my loved ones looked at me like I had three heads when I told them I wanted to skip the whole 9-to-5 thing in lieu of traveling the world solo and documenting it online. "But is that safe?"

"Women shouldn't be traveling on their own." "But what if the whole blogging thing doesn't work out?"

"Aren't you worried about meeting someone and settling down?"

These were just a few of the negative sentiments I had to tune out in order to make my dreams a reality. And today I travel the world -- mainly solo, sometimes with my husband Andy (because yes, even travelers can find love). I document these travels on my popular solo and adventure travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, which today serves as my full-time self-made career. Because yes, it is possible to do what many tell you is impossible :)

Jessie on a Journey offers an honest look into my adventures, advice, and detours. Whether you’re a solo traveler craving spontaneity, a wanderer in search of more than your typical sightseeing, or a blogger with dreams of making travel a profitable lifestyle, this is the destination for you to bring more meaning and fulfillment to your journey. Awaken your curiosity as I share real-talk and resources for exploring the world — and experiencing life — . I'd love to hear from you either here on Facebook or via email at [email protected].

Want mountain scenery, quirky accommodation, and farm-to-fork food less than 3 hours from NYC? 🏔️Roxbury, New York is a ...
10/22/2026

Want mountain scenery, quirky accommodation, and farm-to-fork food less than 3 hours from NYC? 🏔️

Roxbury, New York is a small, artsy Catskills hamlet with stunning nearby hikes, historic Main Street charm, and a waterfall you can walk to from your room. I mapped out the perfect weekend for you! ⬇️

It's rare that I like something in Times Square that isn't Broadway, but Serendipity3's 47th Street location is a lot of...
10/21/2026

It's rare that I like something in Times Square that isn't Broadway, but Serendipity3's 47th Street location is a lot of fun! 🤩

I just sat at the bar and had a coffee, but I really loved the playful vibe — and their desserts look delicious (especially the drug store sundaes).🍨

Giant Ledge is my go-to Catskills hike when the leaves turn! 🍁 If you haven’t been, the Catskills are a mountainous regi...
10/20/2026

Giant Ledge is my go-to Catskills hike when the leaves turn! 🍁

If you haven’t been, the Catskills are a mountainous region of New York State less than a 3-hour drive from NYC and one of my favorite hiking destinations in the world.

While Giant Ledge has some steep sections, I’d say the reward of having an epic panoramic view over the valley and changing trees is worth the required effort.

Here’s what to know before you go:

🥾 Stats: About 3.2 miles out and back from the Route 47 trailhead near Big Indian, with roughly 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Plan on 2 to 3 hours.

🚗 Parking: The lot fills fast on fall weekends, and cars end up lining the road, so get there early. I arrived at about 9:30am on a Saturday and there was one spot left in the lot. On the way down it seemed to be getting more crowded.

👀 Views: There are several overlooks. Keep walking until you find a quiet spot to enjoy the view.

PS: These photos were taken on Oct 17, 2026. While peak foliage is over, there’s still time to take in some really beautiful colors. 😍

10/19/2026

Mongolia’s Altai Mountains are next-level epic. 😍

That time I flew across the world, landed in Ulaanbaatar, took a 2-hour flight to Ulgii, then drove 5 hours (mostly off-road!) into the Altai Mountains for a ger homestay in one of the most remote and stunning places I’ve ever seen. 🌍

Worth it? I think so. 😉

This region is home to rugged peaks, wild rivers, and rare wildlife like snow leopards, ibex, and golden eagles 🦅—plus a rich mix of cultures, including Kazakh, Mongolian, and Tuvan communities.

I stayed with a Kazakh family, and it was such a beautiful way to learn more about their culture and traditions. 🛖✨

Have you ever visited Mongolia? Is it on your list? ⛰️

10/16/2026

Want the best views on an Alaska cruise? Start here👇

After going on an Alaska cruise myself—which was kindly sponsored by Holland America Line—I learned that there are things you can do to increase your chances of getting epic views, wildlife sightings, and great photos.

📸 ALWAYS have your camera with you. You never know when the captain will come on the loudspeaker to shout out a whale or bear sighting.

🏨 If it's within your budget, opt for an unobstructed Verandah stateroom—or, for the best view, an Aft-View Verandah (you’ll be out of the wind and will be able to see both sides of the ship!).

😍 That said, also spend time on the ship's open-air decks. On the Holland America Koningsdam, my favorite views were on the Panorama Deck, aft Sea View Pool, Sky Deck, and Bow.

☀️ Be outside early on scenic cruising days for the best light and least crowds.

🎞️ Bring binoculars as well as a telephoto lens for your camera. I brought a 100-400mm lens, and wished I had a 600mm lens (though if you bring a longer one, make sure you can hold it without shaking!).

🧥 Have layers and sunglasses with you at all times. Temperature swings are common, and running back to your cabin to grab a jacket means potentially missing a wildlife sighting (especially on the Glacier Bay day!).

Have you done an Alaska cruise? Is it on your bucket list? 🛥️

Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia 😍I was recently going through old photos, found this one, and was immediately transpor...
10/16/2026

Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia 😍

I was recently going through old photos, found this one, and was immediately transported back to one of the most epic solo hotel stays of my life—which I stayed at as part of a solo press trip back in 2017. ✨

My room only had 3 walls, with the front of the room open toward the jungle, the sea, and the Pitons. ⛰️

This photo specifically was taken in one of the hotel's gorgeous common spaces. No matter where you are on the property, you will have amazing views. 🤩

Do you ever opt for luxury hotels when traveling solo? 🏨

🌟 Which would you choose: a bustling city adventure or a peaceful nature escape? Luckily, this list has both!
10/07/2026

🌟 Which would you choose: a bustling city adventure or a peaceful nature escape? Luckily, this list has both!

10/06/2026

5 EPIC places to visit in Indonesia's Komodo Islands 😍⬇️

I had so much fun exploring the Komodo Islands, which offer non-stop stunning views whether you’re on the boat, in the water, or exploring on land.

A few not-to-miss spots: 👇

🌅 Padar Island for an epic sunrise hike

🐉 Komodo Island to see the rare Komodo dragons up close

🏝️ Long Beach to walk along a true pink sand beach against bright blue waters

🦇 Kalong Island to watch bats fly out of the mangroves at sunset

🐢 Manta Point to snorkel among manta rays, sea turtles, and sharks

Tip: This is a really easy trip to pair with Bali. You'll take a short flight to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores—which is also worth a few nights. I stayed at the waterfront Loccal Collection Hotel Komodo in Labuan Bajo, which offered epic views! 😍

Have you visited the Komodo Islands? Are they on your list? ✈️

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