I’m an Augusta, Georgia local who’s spent the last five-plus years working in travel and tourism, with a travel style I can only describe as “easy like Sunday morning.” When I’m not researching my next budget-friendly getaway, I’m home with my two rescue dogs, Baloo and Mowgli, shopping at the local farmers market, or sipping a cocktail with some girlfriends at a new restaurant. Whether I’m wandering solo, dragging my fiance along, or rounding up a group of friends, I enjoy chasing the same things wherever I go: a local coffee shop, a restaurant only locals know about, or an experience I couldn’t get anywhere else.
What’s your travel style?
My travel style is “easy like Sunday morning” – a loose itinerary and slow cup of coffee. I’ll do some research ahead of time to find the handful of things I really want to try, but I leave plenty of room to wander and say yes to whatever comes up. Growing up playing team sports my whole life, I still like to stay active on the road, whether that means a light hike or long walk through downtown. And no matter where I go, I’m chasing budget-friendly spots that feel like a local’s secret.
What Georgia spot feels like ‘home’ to you?
Honestly, home for me is anywhere near a Georgia body of water. That could be jet skiing on the Savannah River in Augusta, learning about the haunted history of Lake Lanier outside Atlanta, sipping a cocktail on a Savannah rooftop while cargo ships glide by, or soaking up the sun on Jekyll Island beaches. I love every way there is to get out on Georgia’s waterways.
What’s one thing you always do when you travel?
I always find and follow the destination’s official marketing organization, or DMO, on social media before I go. They do such a good job highlighting local spots, hidden gems, and experiences you can’t find anywhere else, and it usually gives me a head start on what to eat, see, or explore once I get there. My go-to tip: start with the ‘Explore Georgia’ account. It’s a great jumping-off point no matter where in the state you’re headed.