Author: Jess Elford
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Japan: Epic 4-Week Winter Itinerary
Winter is a magical time to visit Japan. Picture snow-covered temples, steaming hot springs, epic ski slopes, and cozy ramen shops on every corner. I spent four weeks solo traveling across the country, experiencing everything from Tokyo’s neon-lit buzz to the serene beauty of snowy Kyoto. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for more, this…
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Ultimate 2-Day Guide to Reykjavik, Iceland
Planning a short trip to Reykjavik? Iceland’s charming capital may be small, but it’s packed with personality, colorful street art, and cozy cafes. Whether you’re using it as a base before exploring the rest of the country or just spending a quick 48 hours in the city, this 2-day Reykjavik itinerary will help you make…
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Top 20 Must-See Waterfalls in Iceland
Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world — each one offering its own unique charm, power, and scenery. Whether you’re road-tripping the Ring Road, exploring remote corners of the country, or seeking out epic photo spots, chasing waterfalls in Iceland is an unforgettable adventure. I speak from experience –…
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How I Landed My Dream Job on a Cruise Ship
It all started on a sea day. I was on a family cruise during university, sitting in an origami class when the thought struck me: “Wait… someone actually gets paid to do this?” I couldn’t believe it — teaching crafts on a cruise ship? That had to be the coolest job in the world. For…
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Iceland: Epic 2-Week Summer Road Trip Itinerary
Iceland is a country that feels like another planet. With volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, steaming hot springs, glacial lagoons, and jaw-dropping coastlines, it’s the ultimate destination for adventurous travelers. And there’s no better way to see it all than with a road trip around the legendary Ring Road. This 2-week Iceland itinerary is based on…
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100 Magical Must-Do’s for Your Disney College Program Bucket List
Spending a year at Walt Disney World on the Disney College Program (DCP) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and trust me, it will be one of the best years of your life. Between creating magical moments, making lifelong friends, and living and working at the Most Magical Place on Earth, there are endless things to see, do,…
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My Year on the Disney College Program: How I Moved to Walt Disney World and Lived My Dream
Hi, I’m Jess (and yes, I work for Mickey Mouse—cue my go-to hairdresser icebreaker 😅). Let me tell you about the incredible gap year that changed my life forever: my year on the Disney College Program! This experience not only took me from my small hometown in Australia all the way to Walt Disney World…
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How Taking a Gap Year to Work at Walt Disney World Changed My Life Forever
I can’t believe that it’s been nearly a decade since I graduated from university (how did that happen?), but I can still vividly picture baby grad Jess – clutching her Bachelor of Design diploma like she’d just walked off the stage in a High School Musical 3 finale. She had big dreams, a whole lot…
Jess at Sea 