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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Texas
By Jess Hagmaier 11 months ago
Dallas has a well-earned reputation for having infrastructure unsuited for pedestrians, but one suburb north of the Texas city bucks that trend.
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Central and South America
By Jess Hagmaier 11 months ago
With a coast on the Caribbean Sea, this Central American country offers over-the-water resorts that rival the Maldives, and it's perfect for budget travelers.
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Hiking
By Jess Hagmaier 11 months ago
Tucked in Europe’s highest peaks, this remote region blends wine culture, mountain villages, and hikes where rustic charm meets unforgettable scenery.
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Europe
By Jess Hagmaier 11 months ago
Wastewater used to flow freely into this country's rivers, but now they're a water lover's dream come true, with opportunities for swimming, tubing, and more.
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Australia
By Jess Hagmaier September 15th, 2025
This new rainforest trail, just one of Australia's many natural wonders, is a beautiful trek rife with picturesque views... just be sure to pack your bug spray!
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Canada
By Jess Hagmaier September 13th, 2025
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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Caribbean and Bahamas
By Jess Hagmaier September 12th, 2025
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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Canada
By Jess Hagmaier September 7th, 2025
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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Caribbean and Bahamas
By Jess Hagmaier 10 days ago
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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Florida
By Jess Hagmaier 11 days ago
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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Mexico
By Jess Hagmaier 10 days ago
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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Caribbean and Bahamas
By Jess Hagmaier 17 days ago
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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Central and South America
By Jess Hagmaier 11 days ago
An environmentally-friendly island off the coast of Honduras features pristine beaches, fishing and diving spots, and beautiful rainforests.
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Caribbean and Bahamas
By Jess Hagmaier August 7th, 2025
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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Europe
By Jess Hagmaier August 4th, 2025
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
By Jess Hagmaier July 30th, 2025
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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Caribbean and Bahamas
By Jess Hagmaier July 29th, 2025
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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Europe
By Jess Hagmaier July 26th, 2025
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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Europe
By Jess Hagmaier July 18th, 2025
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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Europe
By Jess Hagmaier 1 month ago
Check out this charmingly artsy fishing town in Scotland for an abundance of charm and beauty.
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Hawaii
By Jess Hagmaier July 10th, 2025
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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Texas
By Jess Hagmaier July 7th, 2025
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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Florida
By Jess Hagmaier July 5th, 2025
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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Florida
By Jess Hagmaier July 5th, 2025
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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Texas
By Jess Hagmaier June 30th, 2025
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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Europe
By Jess Hagmaier June 29th, 2025
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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Florida
By Jess Hagmaier June 21st, 2025
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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