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.
My First Trip to Japan: 3 Days in Tokyo
My first visit to Japan was a fast-paced three days in Tokyo. I explored everything from samurai history to neon robot shows, wandered through Harajuku, and watched the city sparkle from Tokyo Skytree. A short trip, but one that left me eager to return.
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.
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.
How I Plan Trips Without Losing My Mind
I’m not the “let’s wing it” kind of traveller — I plan everything. From daily itineraries to offline backups, here’s how I organize every trip without the stress… and how you can too.
A Weekend in Italy: Rome & Venice
From tossing coins at Trevi Fountain to getting lost in Venice, my whirlwind weekend in Italy was full of awe, humor, and surprises.
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.
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.