Author: Jess Elford
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A First-Timer’s Guide to Asakusa, Tokyo: Tradition, Temples & Taiyaki
Planning your first trip to Tokyo? Make sure Asakusa is at the top of your list! This vibrant neighborhood offers the perfect mix of old-world charm, cultural experiences, and delicious Japanese street food. With its iconic temples, bustling markets, and traditional vibe, Asakusa is a must-visit destination for travelers wanting a taste of authentic Tokyo.…
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Why Japan is the Perfect Country for Solo Travel
Solo travel can feel intimidating – especially the first time. From figuring out logistics to staying safe in a new environment, there’s a lot to consider. I had done a few short solo trips before, but my month-long adventure across Japan was the first time I truly dove headfirst into the solo travel lifestyle. And…
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Why You Should Work on a Cruise Ship in Your 20s: Travel, Adventure & Career Growth
If you’re in your 20s and craving a life-changing adventure that blends travel, personal growth, and career development, then working on a cruise ship might just be the ultimate move. It’s not your average job – but that’s exactly the point. From waking up in a new country every day to building a global resume,…
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My Favorite Ports I’ve Visited While Working on a Cruise Ship
One of the biggest perks of working on a cruise ship? You get paid to travel the world! Over the past seven years working at sea, I’ve explored dozens of destinations – from turquoise Caribbean beaches to fairy-tale European villages – and I’ve fallen in love with so many cruise ports along the way. These…
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How to See Icebergs Up Close at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in Iceland
Iceland is full of jaw-dropping natural wonders, but one of the absolute highlights? Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. I have one word for this place: OMG. It’s like stepping onto another planet – where icebergs drift peacefully through crystal-clear waters and seals chill out like they own the place (because honestly, they kind of do). If seeing…
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How to Get a Job on a Cruise Ship: A Step-by-Step Guide to Working at Sea
Have you ever dreamed of waking up in a new country each week, meeting people from all over the world, and getting paid to travel? Working on a cruise ship could be your ticket to that lifestyle – and landing a job at sea might be easier than you think. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler…
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Exploring Yamadera: Climb 1,000 Steps to One of Japan’s Most Beautiful Hidden Gems
If you’re looking to step off the beaten path in Japan, let me introduce you to Yamadera, a serene mountaintop temple town in Yamagata Prefecture that completely stole my heart. With its breathtaking mountain views, ancient temples, and peaceful forest paths, Yamadera is one of the most magical places I visited on my Japan trip…
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Top 5 Must-Do Things in Lisbon, Portugal (when you only have one day!)
Planning a trip to Portugal’s capital? Whether you’re visiting for a day on a cruise ship or spending a weekend, Lisbon is full of charm, color, and seriously good food. Here are my top 5 must-do activities in Lisbon – a mix of iconic sights, local flavors, and experiences that will totally win you over,…
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2-Day Guide to Takayama: A Taste of Traditional Japan (and why it’s one of my favorite places!)
If you’re planning a trip to Japan and want to slow down and soak in some old-world charm, the picturesque mountain town of Takayama is a must. Nestled in the heart of the Japanese Alps, this beautifully preserved Edo-era town is full of wooden merchant houses, cozy ryokans, morning markets, and incredible local food. I…
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Visiting Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica (On a Cruise Ship)
Discover what it’s like to climb Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, Jamaica — a must-do adventure for cruise passengers! Tips, what to expect, and how to plan your visit.