Janice's Journeys: Global Wanderlust, Foodie Adventures & Exploration Tales

Discoveries Beyond Boundaries

My Travel Journey

Wepa! Let’s dive into my exciting world of travel. Blending the corporate grind with wanderlust has been quite a journey for me.

Early Career and Travel Constraints

Back in 2016, when I first joined my company and worked for the Federal Government until 2017, travel opportunities were sparse. Being a federal contractor meant endless explanations for every trip, and honestly, I wasn’t traveling much. After all, I was just starting out in life, having spent a fortune furnishing my DC apartment and indulging in a bit of retail therapy

 
The Turning Point: Yacht Week Adventure

However, everything changed in 2017 when my best friend Claudia introduced me to Yacht Week. She proposed an exhilarating plan to embark on a journey starting from Greece. This marked my first ever international adventure. Following that eye-opening trip, I relocated to Florida with a newfound resolution: to travel as much as I could.

Frequent Travel and Work-Life Balance

From 2017 to 2019, my life was a whirlwind of travel. I worked as a consultant with my home office in Florida but served a client based in DC. This meant commuting from Monday to Thursday every week – quite the trek, but totally worth it. The best part? My company covered my travel expenses, allowing me to accumulate points with various hotels and airlines. Oh yes, I reached that coveted diamond status (talk about being boujee)!

Expanding Horizons: Miami and North Carolina

Post-DC, my work took me to clients in Miami and North Carolina, continuing my travel streak. An interesting twist was flexing my trips; instead of returning home for weekends, I’d jet off to a different state, exploring numerous destinations along the way.

A Shift Towards Stability

Even though I was living my best life, things took a turn. I entered a relationship and wanted a more settled life, leading me to find a client in Florida. I worked from their office until COVID-19 hit, shifting me to a work-from-home setup. This unforeseen change opened doors to living in various countries, immersing myself in diverse cultures. Contrary to what some might think, there’s no sugar daddy in this story – I’m self-sufficient and blessed with a job that finances my travels.

Looking Forward to Future Travels

Currently, my travels have slowed down significantly due to my ongoing projects, but I’m eagerly looking forward to reigniting my passion for travel in the upcoming year. So, here’s to more adventures and exploring what the world has to offer!

Curated Expeditions 

I will update these  locations with links little by little. It’s a lot writing blogs ok! hahah But lets start with my hometown, feel free to dive into my Top suggestions when visiting Puerto Rico!

North America

Puerto Rico: La Isla del Encanto – Discover the beauty of Puerto Rico, a vibrant Caribbean gem that promises both relaxation and adventure.

Mexico: 29th Birthday Bash – Immerse yourself in my lively 29th birthday celebration in Mexico, where fun, friendship, and festivities collided on a memorable girls’ trip.

Bahamas: Work and Waves – Additionally, peek into my unique work experiences in the Bahamas’ Freeport, blending professional commitments with the allure of this tropical paradise.

United States Travel Chronicles:

    • DMV Area: Culture and Cold – Explore my time in the DMV (DC, Virginia, Maryland) area, where I embraced the rich culture, historic museums, and ultimately migrated south to escape the cold.
    • Texas: Big Adventures in the Lone Star State – Experience why everything, including adventure, is bigger in Texas, from attending a traditional rodeo to my first shooting experience.
    • Philadelphia: Historic Footsteps – Discover my journey in Philadelphia, where historic landmarks like the Rocky Stairs and Liberty Bell left a lasting impression.
    • California: Sunshine and Family Bonds – Also, uncover the sunny escapades in California, visiting my aunt and falling in love with the state’s endless charm.
    • Arizona: Aerial Wonders – Join me in recounting my favorite state visit, where hot air ballooning offered an unparalleled view of Arizona’s landscapes.
    • New York: City That Never Sleeps – Moreover, relive my frequent visits to New York, a vibrant cityscape of endless energy, closely tied to my best friend’s residency.
    • Connecticut: Winter Wonderland – Witness my first encounter with snow and skiing in Connecticut, a state that introduced me to the joys of winter sports.
    • Georgia: Friendly Reunions and Football – Additionally, read about my visits to Georgia, catching up with friends and experiencing the buzz at the newly opened Mercedes Stadium.
    • South Carolina: Family Road Trips – Reflect on my journey to South Carolina for my brother’s graduation, a trip filled with family bonding and exploration.
    • North Carolina: Work and Discovery – Furthermore, discover my work-related travels to North Carolina, a blend of professional commitments and new experiences.
    • New Jersey: Ski Adventures – Explore my skiing adventures in New Jersey, filled with excitement and a memorable, near-miss story.
    • Hawaii: Wedding in Paradise – Lastly, explore one of my favorite U.S. destinations, Hawaii, where a friend’s wedding offered an unforgettable island experience.
Europe

Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice – Journey with me to Iceland, where dramatic landscapes of volcanoes and glaciers create an otherworldly experience.

France: Romance and Rich History – Furthermore, revel in the romantic allure and historical depth of France, from the charming streets of Paris to the serene countryside.

Italy: Art, Cuisine, and Timeless Beauty – Delve into Italy’s captivating blend of art, delectable cuisine, and historic marvels, echoing through cities and rustic villages alike.

Denmark: Hygge and Harbor Lights – Also, explore Denmark’s cozy charm and picturesque waterfronts, a perfect blend of Scandinavian tranquility and cultural vibrancy.

Croatia: Coastal Wonders and Ancient Cities – Discover Croatia’s stunning coastline and ancient cities, where the Adriatic Sea meets a rich tapestry of history.

Spain: Flamenco, Fiesta, and Fascinating Traditions – Experience the dynamic spirit of Spain, a country teeming with vibrant festivals, rich traditions, and diverse landscapes.

    • Madrid: Spain’s Heart and Soul – Additionally, dive into the lively streets of Madrid, where art, culture, and culinary delights culminate in Spain’s captivating capital.
      • Malaga: Mediterranean Sunshine and Sea – Bask in the warm Mediterranean sun in Malaga, a coastal haven known for its beaches, art, and laid-back lifestyle.
      • Valencia: Innovation Meets Tradition – Moreover, venture into Valencia, where futuristic architecture intermingles with historic charm, offering a unique Spanish experience.
      • Camino de Santiago: A Pilgrim’s Path – Finally, walk with me along the Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage route weaving through stunning landscapes and quaint towns, promising a journey of self-discovery and spiritual renewal.
Asia

Hopefully by 2024.

Africa

Been my #1 bucket list destination all my life and still haven’t gone 🙁

South America

I know, I know I need to make it there

Antarctica

It’s too costly for me right now, but one day

Australia/Oceania

Not a priority for now, but who knows.

Trail Along with Me 

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