The Story Behind AroundJC

Why I Write About Travel

I started writing about travel because I was tired of reviews that read like press releases. When I'm researching a hotel or restaurant, I want to know what it's actually like — the service hiccups, the unexpected upgrades, the dishes worth ordering and the ones to skip. That's what I try to provide here.

This site began as a simple WordPress blog back in 2009, where I'd quickly jot down notes about promotions and travel deals. Over time, it evolved into something more personal — a place to share detailed reviews, travel tips I've learned the hard way, and the destinations that left a lasting impression.

What You'll Find Here

AroundJC covers the things I care about as a traveler:

• Hotel Reviews — Honest assessments based on my actual stays, with attention to service quality, loyalty program recognition, and the details that matter.
• Restaurant Reviews — From Michelin-worthy establishments to local favorites, sharing what's worth your time and money.
• Travel Tips — The practical advice I wish someone had told me before my trips.
• Loyalty Programs — Strategies for maximizing airline miles and hotel points, based on years of personal experience.
• Bucket List Destinations — The places that inspire me and the stories behind visiting them.

My Approach

Every review on this site is based on my personal experience. I pay for my own stays (or earn them through loyalty programs I've built up over years). I don't accept sponsored stays or paid reviews. What you read is what I genuinely experienced, for better or worse.

I believe the best travel writing is honest, specific, and useful. I'd rather tell you a hotel's service was disappointing than pretend every property is a five-star experience. That honesty is what makes these reviews worth reading.