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.
Explore’s content is created by qualified and experienced writers and editors, bolstered by outside field experts. Our mission is to provide readers with well-rounded and accurate information by way of entertaining and engaging articles that deliver a diversity of content, including everything from detailed guides for exotic locales to easily accessible information on domestic travel.
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Stories By Jen Ottolino
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Head out on a stunning road trip though Oklahoma (and even visit Arkansas!) for stunning fall scenery while the foliage is at its most beautiful.
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Visit the westernmost point of Europe at this stunning destination on the rugged coast of Portugal and enjoy a unique sunset experience Rick Steves loved.
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We turn to our writer expert to find out: What's the etiquette of eating in a restaurant in Italy? To start, don't make these rude requests.
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This stunning waterfall is one of Arizona's best-kept secrets, but there's only a brief window of time where you can see it. Here's how to time your journey.
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If you're looking for a scenic hike through red rock landscapes that isn't too long or physically demanding, Arizona has the perfect trail for you!
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Just when you thought every type of accommodation had been covered, idyllic Italy comes up with a lodging option that will influence your next booking.
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This vibrant town is full of South American charm, history, and makes for a much quieter alternative to bustling La Paz. Visit before the secret is out!
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Italy may be known for having some unusual, sometimes unspoken rules, but is there really a law that bans taking selfies in Portofino? Here’s what we know.
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Cool off in the Arizona heat with an outdoor adventure to this stunning waterfall where you can jump from jagged, towering cliffs into a refreshing pool.
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When you’re settling the bill for dinner in Italy, you might notice a “servizio” charge. But before you worry, it’s worth understanding what it actually covers.
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True foodies can't miss Bologna's oldest market when seeking the best eats around Italy. Here's where it is and what you can look forward to.
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Experiencing the true Bavarian Oktoberfest in Munich may be on your bucket list, but these other European cities know how to celebrate the festival too!
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Arches National Park is one of the most gorgeous stretches of land in America, and this mesmerizing hike is a spectacular way to embrace the beauty.
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Portugal may be rising as a hotspot for tourism, but there are still plenty of undiscovered gems in the country. Case in point: this stunning, uncrowded beach.
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While most people picture Arizona as a landscape of cacti-filled deserts, don’t overlook its stunning lakes and reservoirs - including this hidden gem.
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Switzerland's spectacular beauty is no secret, but this underrated village high in the mountains is just about as stunning as the country gets.
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Head to this beach to escape the crowds and relax on Maine's beautiful coast in peace. Just make sure you bring your hiking shoes to get there!
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Forget crowded water parks and public pools. This swimming hole in California has a natural water slide that'll delight adults and kids alike.
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Hiking, and specifically canyoneering, can be a thrilling experience. It can also be dangerous. This canyon in Zion National Park is one of the scary ones.
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Explore this small town's charm and natural beauty and make it your home base for exploring nearby national parks and enjoying other exciting activities.
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What's the best way to book a hotel? Most people use hotel booking sites, like Booking.com, but Rick Steves has a better way to get the best deal.
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While this lake in Switzerland is gorgeous, it's also crowded. Just around the corner is a lesser-known lake that's just as beautiful but more peaceful.
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While they may look cute and harmless, hippos can be aggressive and even lethal. Here's what to be aware of to stay safe when you're on a safari.
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This road trip is only 11 miles, but it's in the heart of the Dolomites in Italy. Driving through this mountain pass will give you jaw-dropping scenic views.
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You may not have heard of this national park in Mexico, but once you see its glorious namesake waterfall, it's one place you won't be able to forget.
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If you're in Italy, don't try to hail a taxi. And if you do and a taxi stops, don't get in! Learn about the differences in taxi culture in Italy versus the U.S.
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We all know the main areas to store luggage on a train: under the seat, overhead, the luggage rack. But you may not know of this hidden spot on Italian trains.