Meet Rebecca Ventura | @mappedbybecca, Travel Writer & Content Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rebecca Ventura and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rebecca, what do you want people to remember about you?
I want people to remember me as the girl that lived her life boldly and inspired others to seek their bliss. Last minute move across the country? Do it. Spontaneous shark dive? Hot air balloon ride? Flying a plane with zero experience? Skydiving? Consider them all booked. Life is too short to waste a second of time on things that do not deeply move or invigorate you. I want to encourage everyone around me to do the things that scare them and lead lives filled with love and adventure. I want to be known as the girl that chased after every dream she conjured up and throughout it all, remained authentically and unapologetically herself.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I specialize in travel/adventure related articles and got my start writing for the Voice incubator program in @packslight travel community. Now I produce on my own content on my travel blog mappedbybecca.com and write copy and articles for @Dallasites101 and @101media’s @Austinites101 account. I’m most proud of the authentic, vulnerable storytelling that I do in my captions and written work. I learned that I shouldn’t be afraid to tell my story, because there are so many people out there yearning for the kinds of pieces that I write. People want to know that they’re not alone in what they’re feeling and that someone else in the world is going through a similar experience or has the same larger-than-life dreams. I use my voice to inspire others to live boldly and blissfully. I write for the people that may never see the shores of a foreign country or feel the warmth of an Italian summer sun. I write for the people that want to, but need that little boost of courage to finally pack their bags and lose themselves in unfamiliar cities. I write because seven year old me, who thought her journalism dreams would collect dust in unfinished notebooks, would be so proud that I finally had the courage to own my story. The greatest thing I’ve taken from the last few years is that if there’s a goal or dream that’s got your heart and mind in a chokehold, there’s got to be a damn good reason why. You’re meant to go for it and find magic all along the way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My best friend Paige lives in Beaumont and for a while we would meet for girls days in Houston. I’d book us a room at the posh C Baldwin Hotel downtown (the beds are so comfy and the bathroom details are next level)! Don’t get me started on the bar downstairs. I stayed here with @lexiewithlove and the chats over cocktails were complimented by the lobby decor and classic chill vibe! We’re big foodies and love Filipino cuisine. Our itinerary would definitely include a stop at Jollibee for Chicken Joy and pineapple juice! You can’t forget Red Ribbon for desserts and pasties like Ube Cake or my favorite, Mocha Mamon! Every good trip has a signature drink stop and for Houston I’d recommend Social Beer Garden, Axelrad (they have hammocks!), or East End Backyard.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. There are no coincidences; everyone we meet and every little thing we stumble across enters our lives in divine timing. I am beyond grateful for all of the wonderful people in my life. Here are a few noteworthy shoutouts:

The Terry Foundation
In 2019 I was flown out to Houston for a 30 minute interview that changed the trajectory of my entire life. Without The Terry Foundation, I wouldn’t have the flexibility and opportunity to explore my passions with excitement and ease. I would have never moved to Austin or evolved into the woman that I am today. I am constantly inspired by everyone in the Terry family and I can’t wait to build more meaningful connections through our organization.

Family + Friends
My Filipino culture ties me back to strong family-oriented roots. I’ve always treasured the supportive relationships and quality time spent with the ones I love the most.
My Uncle Art is one of the main reasons why I decided to pack up and move to Austin. If it weren’t for that one late-night heart to heart, I would’ve never followed my dreams and pursued what was always meant for me.
I’m almost at a loss for words (rare) for this next one. My mom is the most incredible woman I’ve ever met. Her love is so all-encompassing and selfless. She is my biggest supporter and I’ll never get tired of hearing her encouraging words (or her hugs).
My dad has always inspired me to seize the day and live life to the absolute fullest. I got two things from my dad: his curiosity and insatiable hunger for knowledge and his willingness to try anything and everything.
Lexie Puzon (@lexiewithlove)
When you manifest creative and loving friendships, the universe provides (and then some)! Lexie walked into my life when I needed it the most. We met on a group tour when I took a solo trip to Hawaii; since then, we’ve traveled to see each other in San Diego, Houston, Austin, and soon the rest of the world! She is the perfect concoction of girl boss, sister, supportive friend, and inspiring woman. So much of what I have learned about this industry in the last few months has been under her guidance and support!

Website: https://www.mappedbybecca.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mappedbybecca/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccaventura/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mappedbybecca/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfGRlKNVIVLsPGwWBXNfyog

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mappedbybecca? Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mappedbybecca/_created/

Image Credits
https://www.jmalenz.com/ @j.m.a_lenz