Jen Ottolino
Location
Norte Pequeno, Azores, Portugal
School
Johns Hopkins School Of Advanced International Studies
Expertise
Outdoor Adventures, Exotic Destinations, Sustainable Travel
- Jen is a global citizen who speaks four languages and has lived and worked on three continents, including the midwestern and western US, a medieval city in Italy, a rural village in Tanzania, and a volcanic island in Portugal.
- An accomplished outdoor adventurer, Jen has worked as a rafting guide and taught rock climbing in Arizona, summited Mt. Rainier and Mt. Kilimanjaro, backpacked through remote parts of Alaska, and trekked to Everest Base Camp.
- Her experience buying a tiny farmhouse on the island of Faial in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores was recently featured in an episode of "House Hunters International."
Experience
Following a decade of work in the global development sector, Jen recently transitioned into full time writing and editing. As a content creator for Tempest from 2021 to 2022, she wrote travel blogs and created website content for destination management organizations throughout North America. In 2022, she founded Bright Island Communications to provide writing, editing, and digital storytelling services for organizations in the health and humanitarian sectors. She continues to share her passion for exploration with others through freelance travel writing.
Education
Jen has several degrees, the most recent being a Master of International Public Policy from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Bologna, Italy.
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Stories By Jen Ottolino
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According to Rick Steves, this underrated region in Greece offers thinner crowds and lower prices without sacrificing beautiful beaches or cultural charms.
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For a little slice of paradise, follow a scenic trail to this desert oasis to explore caves and play the crystal clear pools beneath a small waterfall.
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The prospect of seeing a waterfall in the desert might seem unlikely, but that's exactly what you can experience in this arid yet beautiful Southwestern state.
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The Grand Canyon is a top Arizona destination. If you're open to tough hiking and rafting, you can venture to this little-known spring that's sure to impress.
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Giada De Laurentiis recommends a budget-friendly restaurant serving exceptional meals that foodies will love. Here is what you need to know.
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Relax and unwind in these quirky hot springs just a short drive from Phoenix, where you can stay the night at the resort or camp for an outdoor adventure.
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Only a short ferry ride from Sicily, this remote Italian island is ideal for those who may appreciate a bit of scenic solitude during a Mediterranean adventure.
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This hill town in Italy is falling apart (literally) and seemingly frozen in time. It's also one of Rick Steves' favorite places to visit. We'll tell you why.
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This short yet stunning trail takes you through some of Norway's beautiful landscapes to a marble canyon, locally referred to as the marble castle.
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If you'd like to feel like you're visiting Tatooine or wandering through Middle Earth, take a hike to this western desert for incredible views.
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This is one of the best-known lakes in Switzerland. It captivates visitors mainly because its translucent waters are an extraordinary shade of blue.
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Indulge in world-class wine-tasting experiences and scenic attractions in a vineyard-draped region. Plan your trip now and explore exquisite settings.
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This hike rewards you with a series of bright blue and green pools, some of which sit at the base of picturesque waterfalls. It's a fairy tale come to life!
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It's worth making the effort to find this hidden beach in Milos. With orange stone and turquoise water, you'll see why
it's known as "The Island of Colors."
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You'll need to do some advanced planning to score a pass to hike this beautiful trail, but it is possible! Here's what you can expect in the process.
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See this ancient city for authentic Italian culture, beautiful landscapes, and, if you time it well, a unique experience helping release turtles into the wild.
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Journey to the world's largest river island where you can spot exotic wildlife, visit beautiful secluded beaches, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
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This Arizona hike brings you to one of the most iconic photo op destinations that'll be sure to impress your Instagram followers -- and more importantly, you.
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For your next vacation, consider heading to this adorable Canadian town. After all, it's supposed to be the ultimate destination when traveling alone.
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Looking for a natural phenomenon that requires a bit of adventure to reach? Check out this waterfall, a must-see destination that can only be accessed on foot.
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Here's what we can look forward to in 2024 and beyond as airlines and airports reveal their improvement plans for making travel easier or more enjoyable.
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It's no surprise that Rick Steves top pick is this beautiful country, which boasts exquisite cuisine, architecture, art, and cultural value.
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When you travel abroad, it's important to step out of your comfort zone. Rick Steves talks about adapting to the local culture and why it matters.
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How much can there be on a 7-mile road trip? Quite a lot! This road will bring you to iconic areas showcasing the best of Arizona's red rock country.
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Step into a whimsical fairytale at this state park in Kentucky, where giant wooden sculptures of fantastical creatures join your outdoor adventures.
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Egypt's large swathes of pristine wilderness and burgeoning hiking scene are the perfect setting for adventurous outdoor travelers.
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Visiting Walt Disney World with your toddler can be magical, or stressful. Make sure to visit these Disney parks and attractions your child will love.