Young woman with braided hair in casual clothes, crouching on stone ruins at an ancient Mayan archaeological site with stone stairs and structures, surrounded by green trees and under a bright sunny sky.

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.

What Travel Looks Like vs. What It Really Feels Like
personal Stories, travel inspiration, Personal Development Unsettled JD Kerwin personal Stories, travel inspiration, Personal Development Unsettled JD Kerwin

What Travel Looks Like vs. What It Really Feels Like

Travel photos capture the highlights, but they rarely show the ordinary moments that shape us. After travelling to 56 countries over 16 years, here's what travel really felt like - and why I believe you don't find yourself through travel, you build yourself.

Read More
Flights: The Good, The Bad, and The Almost Missed
Travel Stories, Travel Tips, Lessons Learned Unsettled JD Kerwin Travel Stories, Travel Tips, Lessons Learned Unsettled JD Kerwin

Flights: The Good, The Bad, and The Almost Missed

I’ve never missed a flight — but that doesn’t mean they’ve all gone smoothly. From sprinting through airports in China to watching my luggage take its own trip to Prague, flying has taught me patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humor. After 15 years of travel, I’ve learned that the journey between takeoff and landing is full of lessons — and sometimes, the best stories happen before you even reach your destination.

Read More