London Phone Booth

Lessons Learned from My Solo Travel to Europe

ByJewels Rhode

As I unloaded my bags from my weeklong England & Iceland excursion, I chuckled at the mail that had arrived for me in my absence. On my pillow laid Essence Magazine’s June 2016 travel edition. It was this time last year that I was reading an Essence article that encouraged women to step out of their comfort zone and see the world, even if it meant doing so, solo! After reading that article, I was determined not to let another year pass before I did just that. 

Global currencies

5 Obvious (and Not-So-Obvious) Ways to Boost Your Travel Fund

ByJewels Rhode

My ability to put together the funds to travel comes to down to how I manage my finances and stick to my budget. I recognize that, depending on your income, it might be hard to save a lot. But trust me: every dollar adds up. Here are 5 obvious and not-so-obvious ways to boost your travel funds!

South Africa Cacti Farm

South Africa Itinerary Ideas From A Local

ByJewels Rhode

During the summer of 2014, I met Silas through a coworker when I went to a party. Since leaving South Africa, Silas and I have kept in touch over the years. He is a free-spirited creative whose photography captures the true essence of South Africa and he knows Cape Town and its surrounding areas well. I’m excited to have Silas share his invaluable insight with the travelJewels community because locals always know best!Here is a variety of non-traditional South Africa itinerary ideas from a local! 

Turquoise blue waters

7-months Around the World as a Solo Female Traveler

ByJewels Rhode

Traveling really opens your eyes into what is important to you in life. I think people get so stuck in their daily grind and rat race that they lose perspective. When traveling, you take a step back from your daily life. It really allows you to tap into what makes you happy and reflect on what brings joy to your life. Traveling allows you to hit a pause button on all the noise in your life and have “me time” where you think about what you want to accomplish in life. How do I structure my life in a way to make me happy?