In this Travel Tuesday feature, we're chatting with NYC expert Jennifer O’Brien, the founder of TheTravelWomen.com, a community dedicated to women travelers. I met Jennifer during her time at Budget Travel, and she’s my go-to for all things NYC! She reveals her top dining spots, budget travel hacks, and secret city treasures.
Name: Jennifer O’Brien
Age: 26
Hometown: New York City
Countries Visited: 23
Website: TheTravelWomen.com
Instagram: @JennifersCamera & @TheTravelWomen
1. What sparked your passion for travel?
I took my first flight at just one year old, flying to San Diego with my parents. After a few family vacations, I studied abroad in Parma, Italy, where I explored ten more countries. The travel bug bit me hard! I seized every chance to travel, which inspired me to create The Travel Women, empowering women to step beyond their comfort zones and explore. Now, I’m fully dedicated to my passion for travel through The Travel Women!
2. What do you love about living in NYC?
NYC feels both vast and intimate. Just when I think I know a neighborhood or the best pizza joint, I discover something new! I’ve lived in five different neighborhoods and have a special fondness for Williamsburg!
3. What are your top three eateries in the city?
Choosing just three favorites is tough, but here are my current top picks in Williamsburg:
- Mesa Coyoacan: This incredible Mexican gem serves the best Mexican food outside of Mexico—no joke! From delicious chicken tortilla soup to fried grasshoppers paired with mezcal, it’s a unique experience!
- Carmine’s Pizza: I can’t get enough of Carmine’s pizza! They serve slices and even gluten-free options! My current obsession is their ricotta and Kalamata olives slice.
- Loosie Rouge: This charming spot features grass at the entrance, hammocks, and vibrant walls perfect for Instagram. Their brunch is fantastic, offering eggs benedict on waffles with a choice of salmon or bacon. The “Matcha Patcha” drink is a must-try!
4. What budget travel tips do you recommend for NYC?
- Consider a CityPASS to access multiple attractions at a discount. For instance, the pass for six attractions costs $122, while the C3 pass for three is great for short visits.
- Look for museums with “recommended” admission so you can pay what you can, especially if you plan to visit several.
- Take the Staten Island Ferry for stunning views of Manhattan—it's free!
5. What hidden gems should visitors check out in the city?
One of my favorite parks is Elizabeth Street Garden, a quaint European-style garden adorned with statues. Another lesser-known gem is the Queens Museum, home to the 1985 Panorama showcasing a miniature NYC. It’s located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, which also features remnants from the World’s Fair.
6. What’s the biggest misconception about NYC?
Many believe that all New Yorkers are unfriendly. While some may seem brusque, I've encountered countless warm and welcoming individuals.
7. Share a memorable adventure you’ve had in the city.
One day, while passing Gramercy Park—the last private park in NYC—I met a group with a key who invited me in. I was thrilled to explore this serene oasis at sunset with my camera. The funniest part? I realized too late that I was one of the last people inside and needed a key to leave. Luckily, I casually followed a local out!
8. What advice do you have for aspiring travelers? How can they overcome fear?
Follow your passions, and it will feel less daunting! If there's a destination you've always wanted to visit, go for it! Start small by exploring local attractions on your own to build confidence. Solo travel can be incredibly rewarding!
9. What essentials do you always bring on a trip?
First, I never travel without my camera gear—charger, extra batteries, and memory cards. Second, tweezers are a must for everything from grooming to first aid. Lastly, I pack snacks; a variety of granola bars is perfect for any journey!
10. What’s your next travel destination?
I’m gearing up for a trip to Panama with another blogger, where we’ll explore highlights from the Panama Canal to Starfish Beach.
