Greetings everyone! Meet Jayla!

Tell me a bit about yourself and what you do.

I’m a 27-year-old digital nomad originally from Los Angeles, with roots in Atlanta.

I’ve spent my adult years blending my passion for travel with my work as an executive assistant. From London to Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, China, and Taiwan, I love diving into new cultures and discovering hidden gems.

Whether I’m working from a boutique café by the beach or a cozy spot in a bustling city, my laptop goes everywhere with me. I’m all about traveling smart—mixing budget-friendly options with a touch of luxury. After all, “Life is a daring adventure, or nothing at all!”

How has travel impacted your life and how has it changed you and your family life?

Travel has completely shifted my perspective on life! It’s easy to get caught up in the material chase, but after moving abroad and leaving behind the American hustle, I’ve realized it’s all about the experiences, not the stuff. I could have a closet full of clothes, but I’d choose to invest in experiences any day. The world is truly our home, and through travel, I’ve learned that happiness isn’t about what you own, but the moments you create and the people you meet along the way.

What makes this journey even more special is that some family members also decided to take the plunge and live abroad too! I love sharing these experiences with them, and when my family visits, I get to introduce them to the incredible places I’ve discovered—new foods, hidden gems, and a whole new way of living.

What has been your most favorite travel experience and why?

One of my favorite travel experiences was unexpectedly spending a week in

Taiwan. I went to get my visa, but when the agents told me it wouldn’t be ready until Monday, I ended up staying for a whole week while the rest of my group returned home. I had never stayed in a hostel before, so I was a bit unsure at first, but since they had my passport, I didn’t have a choice! I ended up booking two different hostels, and let me tell you—it was an amazing experience!

I explored Taipei, wandered through night markets, and loved being on my own schedule. It was my first true solo trip in years, and I absolutely loved it! I met some incredible people from all over the world, and I highly recommend solo travel now. The experience totally changed my mindset about hostels too—I went from joking that I’d never stay in one to being a huge fan. I ended up in a capsule hotel with a female dormitory, and while it felt strange at first, I actually felt safe and peaceful. It was the best experience!

Do you have any tips or advice for people who want to travel more?

When it comes to travel, things will go wrong! Plans will change, things won’t go as expected, and that’s totally okay! Be ready to adapt, adjust, and go with the flow. The best advice I can give is to embrace the unexpected. Sometimes the best experiences come from the unplanned moments. Stay flexible, step out of your comfort zone, and remember that it’s all part of the adventure. You’ll meet amazing people, try new things, and have stories you’ll cherish for a lifetime!

Why did you choose to relocate to Southeast Asia?

I chose Southeast Asia because it has such an incredible variety! From mountains to beaches to rainforests, the landscapes and experiences here are diverse and exciting. It’s also a great hub for travel, with modern technology and infrastructure that make life easier—especially since this is my first time living abroad. It gives me the feeling of being somewhere completely new and exciting, but still connected to the comforts of home. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and convenience!

What are the must-have items in your packing list?

My packing list is pretty simple but essential! First off, I always have my cellphone charger and a battery pack—I can’t risk being without my phone or running out of battery while exploring or working! A portable fan is a must in hot climates, it’s a total lifesaver. And of course, my blanket. I get so cold on buses and planes, so having it with me makes sure I’m always cozy no matter where I am!

Why do you think it’s important for women to travel?

I think it’s incredibly important for women to travel because it gives us the chance to step outside of our usual roles and experience the world through a different lens. We’re often so caught up in relationships, careers, and family responsibilities that we forget about our own dreams and desires. Traveling allows us to reconnect with ourselves and explore the world in a way that’s all our own. It’s empowering, it helps us grow, and it reminds us that we are more than just our roles in others’ lives. Travel lets us nurture our curiosity, meet new people, and experience life on our terms!

Where can people follow your travel journeys?

Join me on my travel adventures as I explore hidden gems, embrace new cultures, and share all the fun (and sometimes chaotic) moments along the way!

You can follow my journeys on

Instagram @Adventure_3 and

TikTok@Adventure_2021.

Let’s wander together!