The more I travel, the more I get it down to a system- how to pack to maximize space, what the essentials are versus what I can leave behind, how to get through the airport as quickly as possible and how to be most comfortable. I narrowed this list down to the twenty things I think you need most when you travel.

Cartagena, Colombia is an absolutely breathtaking city that is very much vivid and lively. From the famous Palenqueras to the Arabic architecture to the aromatic street food, it is an adventurer’s dream. There’s so much to discover and the locals don’t mind helping you do it.

When I decided that travel was going to be my biggest goal of life as a single woman, New Orleans topped my list of places in the United States. The thought that I could be caught by the surprise of live music on any street at any time or the idea that I could possibly have the best food dish I will ever have were good enough reasons to make a trip to NOLA happen.

Let’s talk about what is obviously the most important part of visiting New Orleans—the food. Aside from music, the Big Easy is known for the endless options of amazing flavor and variety. Most of the food is creole or cajun inspired—a blend of many different cultures. So, when you eat in New Orleans, you’re literally getting a taste of history.

The Away expandable carry on is the perfect travel luggage so so many reasons. It’s sleek and modern, it locks with a passcode, has a front pocket and other thoughtful features, and best of all, it expands to ensure that I never have to check a bag.

A “staycation” is different from a vacation in that you remain in your home city or somewhere nearby that is usually accessed within a day or even better, a couple hours. Here’s why you might consider planning one.

Yours Truly DC is modern in design, eclectic in decor, and soulful in feel. Not only can you dine downstairs at Mercy Me Restaurant, there’s space to work remotely in the lounge, a bar to grab a drink, and even a record shop, which is certainly nothing I’ve ever seen before in a hotel.

Travel was and still is of major concern, namely travel that involved time in the airport or stations that are typically characterized by crowds of people in close quarters. Although travel for leisure, especially internationally, is still not highly recommended, it is still very possible to do so in a way that minimizes risk and allows for social distancing and health safety.

When I set the goal to travel it was always with the intent of doing it alone, but initially it was not about mindfulness. Because I’m introverted, I have always preferred and prioritized alone time, so when I first traveled alone as an adult, naturally it felt more instinctive and comfortable for me. As my passion grew for traveling, I also realized that each time, I discover more about myself than I knew before.

The scale of Monument, the installation by Rashid Johnson, was the first thing to hit me. It’s towering and expansive and impossible to capture the size in one photo. I’m always generally amazed at how an art installation can transform a space, and when I see Black artists’ large scale work in particular, I feel they intentionally invoke a sense of reverence.