Field Notes from the Road
Real stories from the road—wins, weird moments, and the “wish-I’d-knowns.” These posts are my unfiltered take on places I’ve actually traveled, with honest opinions and the simple tricks that help solo women feel confident. Expect practical takeaways tucked inside personal tales, from budget blunders to street-food gold. No fluff, no filters—just the truth and a nudge to go.
Travel Insurance: To Buy or Not to Buy?
When I first started traveling, I thought travel insurance was a waste of money. I was young, healthy, and reckless. But from hospital visits in Australia to trip interruptions in Shanghai and NYC, I’ve learned the hard way why coverage matters. Here are the real stories that changed my mind.
Athens & Santorini: A Winter Adventure
Two Canadians, one coming from Beijing and the other from Toronto, meet in Athens for the adventure of a lifetime. From exploring ancient ruins to getting stranded on a Greek island, this diary-style travel story proves that the best moments often come from the unexpected.
Hostel vs. Hotels (and Everything In Between)
Hostel or hotel? I’ve stayed in both — and everywhere in between. From learning salsa in a Colombian hostel to camping on the Great Wall of China, every type of accommodation has its pros, cons, and surprises. Here’s what I’ve learned after 15+ years of travel.
My Second Trip to Japan: Disney, Mount Fuji & Osaka
For my second trip to Japan, I celebrated my birthday at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea before heading to Mount Fuji and Osaka. Highlights included fireworks over DisneySea, rooftop views of Fuji, a moat boat ride at Osaka Castle, and sunset beers at Harukas 300. A magical Japan trip filled with unforgettable — and bittersweet — memories.
Questions I Always Get Asked While Traveling (or at Home)
One of the first questions I always get asked — at home or abroad — is: “What’s your favourite country?” Having travelled to 50+ countries, I simply can’t pick just one. Each place has left me with unique memories, from mystery meals in Thailand to volcano views in Guatemala.
Starting Something New: Why I Built Unsettled JD
Every new adventure starts with a first step. This is the story of why I launched Unsettled JD — a space for honest travel stories, real tips, and the messy magic of exploring the world.
Paris: My Birthday Weekend That Felt Like a Dream
A birthday weekend in Paris — three unforgettable days of wine, art, and pinch-me moments under the Eiffel Tower. Paris really did live up to the dream.
Why I Started Travelling
I told my mom I was moving to Australia when the snow started falling — six days later, I was on a plane to Melbourne. What began as a six-month trip to see the Great Barrier Reef turned into 15 years of living, working, and exploring around the world. Here’s how it all started… and why I never looked back.