T R A V E L

Oftentimes, we are given opportunities to pivot and change the direction of our lives - and it's up to us to decide if we are going to do something about it. In December of 2014, I lost my aunt, one of the most important people in my life. She dreamed of living an amazing life but opted to wait until she retired to start doing so. Unfortunately, 2 weeks to the date after she retired, she passed away of a heart attack and it devastated me and my family. While sitting at her memorial service, I heard something clear as day say, "don't wait, you've got to start living now". That moment was my opportunity - my pivot into completely changing the direction of my life - and I decided that I was going to do something about it right then. I moved out of a city that was no longer serving me; I ended a relationship that completely ran its course; and I started to say yes to all of the things I've always wanted to do. Like travel.

My Aunt really wanted to travel - it was the thing she looked forward to most after retirement. So, since she never got to see the world, I decided that I was going to see it for her. In 2022, I decided to start documenting my life's experiences and created a YouTube channel called Well-Lived with Jessica Payne. It's a way for me to make good on the promise I made to myself and my aunt back in 2014, while in tears at her funeral. My goal is to live a life well-lived, and to show people (especially those that look like me) that if I can do it - they can too. Representation matters. When you see others that look like you in places where you may have thought that you wouldn't "belong" - you feel inspired to do it as well. It's been reported that 54% of Black Americans are more likely to visit a destination if they see Black representation in travel advertising. I am committed to continually showing the strong community that I've built over the last year how amazing this world truly is for ALL of us - through my point of view. I always say, "I don't know how much longer I will be on this earth, but what I know for sure is - I'm going to have a damn good time while I'm here!"

CHARLESTON, SC

If you want to learn how to spend 3 days in Charleston, SC - then this is the video for you. Full of shopping, eating, drinking, and exploring.

ALASKA PART I

The trip of a lifetime. In this video you’ll get to see our time in Vancouver, a tour of the ship, 2 days at sea, and our first stop in Ketchikan, Alaska.

HUDSON, NEW YORK

You’ve got to come along with me as I get the chance to experience The Maker Hotel in Hudson New York. I promise you are not going to want to miss this!

BRIMFIELD, MASSECHUSETTS

After years of wanting to go - I finally made a trip up to Massachusetts to the Brimfield Flea Market and it was everything I was dreaming of and more!

DETROIT, MICHIGAN

Let’s go see the Beyonce Renaissance concert and explore all of the amazing things that Detroit, Michigan has to offer!

PUNTA CANA, DR

You’ve got to see our trip to Punta Cana where we stayed at the luxurious Iberostar Grand Bavaro resort and off-site excursion.

ALASKA PART II

This is my favorite episode of the Alaska series - our stop in Juneau to explore the Tracy Arm Fjord. This experience is one I will never forget.

NYC, NEW YORK

After living in NYC for many years, I thought I would show you around to some of my favorite places while doing some shopping and eating amazing food.

RALEIGH, NC

Who doesn’t love to go on a little getaway in your own. I had such a beautiful stay at the Heights House Hotel in Raleigh - and I’m bringing you along!

ST. CROIX, USVI

Come with me as we visit the beautiful island of St. Croix. This video is full of adventure as we explore the island tip to tip!

CANCUN, MX

Come spend my birthday with me in Cancun Mexico where we had so much fun enjoying the water, food, cocktails, and a private yacht trip.

ALASKA PART III

The final part of the Alaska series where we see more glaciers and nature in Whittier and then head over to Anchorage for our last stop.

PORTLAND, OREGON

I went on a girls trip to Portland, Oregon and had the absolute best time. From great eats, to waterfalls, and wineries - you won’t want to miss this.

DURHAM, NC

Come check out my favorite spots in Durham, NC + take a little last minute trip to Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington, NC.

LAS VEGAS, NV

You are in for a treat with this video as I take you with me on a girls trip to Las Vegas to meet Usher. Lots of concert footage - shopping - great eats - and cocktails!