School
University of Texas-Arlington
Expertise
Solo Travel, Slow Travel, Remote Work & Travel
- Jess left the US in 2024 to travel the world, spending significant time in London, Manchester, Wales, Barcelona, Pyeongtaek, Barbados, Thailand, and Cambodia along the way.
- She is a sports and beach enthusiast, focusing her travel around the best beaches and sports-related experiences while participating in friendly basketball and beach volleyball games whenever possible.
- Jess served as Interim Editor-in-Chief of Ozone Magazine - West during the summer of 2008.
Experience
As the daughter of an Air Force veteran, Jessica started traveling internationally before the age of two. In the three-plus decades since, she has lived in or visited over twenty-five countries across five continents. In 2007, Jessica founded The fuSHion Magazine, an award-winning publication that interviewed major celebrities and athletes, and featured articles on current events, social issues, fashion and travel.
Education
Jessica graduated from the University of Texas-Arlington with a B.S. in University Studies and a concentration in Business and Marketing.
Islands content is created by a team of veteran writers and editors passionate about travel. Outside experts with deep field knowledge sometimes inform our work with additional context and perspectives by way of exclusive commentary. Our goal is to offer readers well-rounded and diverse articles that inform, entertain, and inspire.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process is available here.
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This roadside rest stop has a special pool of clear water that looks transported from a tropical island, complete with rope swing and picturesque scenery.
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Snorkel with coral and schools of fish, lounge on golden beaches, and imbibe in rum cocktails without a worry in the world on this island safe from hurricanes.
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This Nova Scotian city is known for its lively atmosphere, walkable downtown waterfront, and plenty of great attractions and foods to check out.
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Just a short trip from the area's best-known tourist spots lies a smaller, quieter tropical paradise where kids of all ages can enjoy turquoise waters.
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This turquoise natural spring in Florida is an off-the-beaten-path destination that proves the Sunshine State is so much more than white, sandy beaches.
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Affordable living, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery make this Latin retreat the top choice for Americans ready to turn vacation into forever.
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St. John's is a well-known tropical destination, but if you're up for a little adventure and a historic hike, a hidden undersea paradise awaits.
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An environmentally-friendly island off the coast of Honduras features pristine beaches, fishing and diving spots, and beautiful rainforests.
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The island of Grenada has no shortage of alluring beaches for visitors to kick back and relax on, but one in particular comes with a delicious extra.
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This tiny Portuguese island in the middle of the Atlantic is a birder's paradise with only one town and a lake-filled volcanic crater at its center.
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Florida isn't lacking when it comes to beachside getaways, but some stand out above the rest, including this lush, ocean-view community near Miami.
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Make your way off the beaten path to the Dominican Republic's laid back beach town where sand and surf meet hiking and excellent food, all with less tourists.
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Tucked away on the island of Crete, this village is the perfect Greek escape, featuring crystal clear waters, traditional tavernas, and stunning gorge hikes.
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To see how locals live in a modern Dutch town, visit this charming Netherlands community, nicknamed the "Smartest Neighborhood in the World."
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Check out this charmingly artsy fishing town in Scotland for an abundance of charm and beauty.
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Thinking about moving to Hawaii? Then you'll want to consider this picturesque Oahu town tucked between lush green mountains, with all the creature comforts.
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Discover one of Texas' oldest and most vibrant downtowns enjoying classic Texan cuisine, exploring the arts scene, and shopping to your heart's content.
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This small Florida town offers visitors outdoor, waterside adventures like fishing, walking, biking, and boating on one of America's largest lakes.
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This Florida city has options for shopping, dining, and outdoor family adventure. Plus, there are interesting annual festivals and Florida's only snow park.
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Literally an oasis in the middle the desert, this stunning Texas swimming hole offers crystal clear waters with unique wildlife for snorkeling and swimming.
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For a trip to France filled with history and outdoor adventures, visit this city that's filled with medieval architecture and beautiful surrounding landscapes.
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This barrier island in Southwest Florida is mostly known to locals but visitors should also enjoy its beautiful sands and proximity to stunning wildlife.
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Costa Rica is a gorgeous destination for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and foodies alike, but this town is also the best place to retire as well.
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Colorado
By Jess Hagmaier
This tiny Colorado town is named after the many dinosaur bones that have been found there, but it also has a particular reputation for cannabis dispensaries.
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Colorado
By Jess Hagmaier
Those seeking mountainous bliss mixed with cozy downtowns should head to this town in Colorado, squirreled away among the gorgeous Spanish Peaks.
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Water Sports
By Jess Hagmaier
Colorado has a mountain town that offers the perfect blend of cozy downtown, adventurous hikes, and wet water sports along the Arkansas River.
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