Author: jessdsimpson

Hi, I’m Jess. My husband Matt and I have been traveling the world since 2015 - two backpacks, one laptop (me) and one bicycle (him). We aim to travel light and leave small footprints. Now, we begin a new chapter with the renovation of a historic apartment in Tuscany. We hope you will follow the adventure and reach out to say hello!

In Venice, Powerful Art Installation Symbolizes The Role We Play

October 26, 2017

This week we’re celebrating the unparalleled beauty and complexity of #Venice and discussing impacts that we, as travelers, have on the places we visit. A striking art installation for this year’s Venice Biennale beautifully illustrates the power harnessed within the decisions we make. Italian artist Lorenzo Quinn developed “Support” as a statement about dual natures: … More In Venice, Powerful Art Installation Symbolizes The Role We Play

How Big is the Crush on Venice? Read on.

October 25, 2017

That Venice tops nearly every traveler’s bucket-list is no wonder. For centuries, travelers returning from the island city have shared stories and imagery of romance and intrigue, encouraging others to follow in their steps. Gliding along the Grand Canal feels like entering a fantasy. Waterfront palaces exude equal parts grandeur and decay. A labyrinth of … More How Big is the Crush on Venice? Read on.

Interested in Housesitting Around the World? Listen to Our First Podcast about Three Months in Spain.

July 9, 2017

Being a freelance travel writer is a crazy career. I like to say… It’s not all champagne and sunsets (just mostly). Pay is low, deadlines are right, and self-doubt is constant. But, of course, perks are also abundant. For me, one of most positive aspects is the element of surprise. You truly never know what … More Interested in Housesitting Around the World? Listen to Our First Podcast about Three Months in Spain.

When Does A Traveler Become Local? Five Things We Love About Immersive Travel.

June 29, 2017

Vattaro – Trentino, Italy We recently returned to this tiny alpine village in northern Italy after being away for nine months. During that time, we’ve traveled nonstop through many countries – Bulgaria, England, Spain, Cuba, and the U.S. – in a whirlwind of movement, languages, and cultures. Nearly 25,000 miles of journeying separate us from … More When Does A Traveler Become Local? Five Things We Love About Immersive Travel.