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.
Traveler Blog’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.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process available here.
Stories By Jen Ottolino
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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.
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There's a treacherous stretch of road connecting Phoenix and Las Vegas considered one of the most dangerous highways in the U.S. Here's what you need to know.
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If you crave the thrill of adventure, this tourist activity in Peru is a must. But make sure you're prepared - some say it's scarier than they expected!
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Get off the beaten path by making a stop at this charming town between Florence and Rome, where you can avoid crowds and enjoy a slice of Italian life.
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With its mesmerizing scenery and natural spots, it's no wonder adventurers brave this death-defying trail in Acadia National Park. Do you dare to attempt it?
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Culinary expert Stanley Tucci recommends this lovely restaurant to anyone seeking authentic Tuscan meals that burst with flavor and history.
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Naples is like no other place in the world thanks in part to its street food. In fact, you'll need to step back if you order this "exploding" drink.
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Rock climbing at Zion National Park is magical, but certain areas could be closed during the summer months. Rest assured: it's for a wholesome reason.
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This underrated state park in North Carolina is the perfect getaway opportunity for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. Add it to your parks bucket list!
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Circular roads are a common sight in Europe, especially in France. While some are merely a road type, others have a fascinating past that might surprise you.
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If you want to sample the delicacies that can be found in an Italian grocery store, make sure you follow this important rule to avoid getting dirty looks.
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Not only is candle ice beautiful, but it also makes a majestic twinkling sound. Here's the best time to visit Banff National Park to experience the phenomenon.
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Society becomes even more transformative when people live and thrive freely. To experience such freedom and cultural diversity, head to this unique community.
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You'd be surprised at how many tourists get stuck on Italian trains because they don't know how to open the doors. Heed our advice to avoid being one of them.
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Chicago is an amazing city, but you may want to steer clear this summer - at least until July. Why? Here's a hint: It has six legs and red eyes.
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The island of Basse-Terre in Guadalupe in the Caribbean has incredible waterfalls and several colorful sandy beaches that will leave you breathless.
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Greek food is delicious. So delicious that it's hard to pick one thing from the menu! With Rick Steves' advice, you won't have to during your trip to Athens.
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Next time you're catching a train in Italy, remember this handy flow chart to help you figure out whether you need to validate your ticket or just hop aboard.
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Italy expert Stanley Tucci compared the taste of this region's bread to cardboard. However, it can still be enjoyed when paired with other culinary treats.
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Rick Steves recounts a culinary experience that allowed him to put into perspective the differences between dining in Italy and at a U.S. Italian restaurant.
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Most people see airports as necessary evils, but the landscapes at this airport in Arizona will change that. The catch? No commercial flights.
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Most people who visit Italy want to go to multiple regions. Giada de Laurentiis recommends a perfect way to travel that's budget friendly and easy.
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Here's the essential lingo to know when dining in Italy, which has some of the world's best food! So, do you want to eat at an osteria, enoteca, or trattoria?