Daily Inspiration: Meet Jennifer Van Cleve

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Van Cleve.

Hi Jennifer, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Travel has been a part of my story for as long as I can remember. Growing up, my family would take road trips every summer, weeks at a time, exploring different parts of the U.S. Those early adventures sparked a deep passion in me for discovering new places, cultures, and experiences.

That love for travel has only grown stronger into adulthood. I’ve visited 49 U.S. states (North Dakota is still on the list!) and explored 47 countries so far, and 6 continents, and I’m just getting started. Over the years, I’ve developed a special love for solo travel, finding empowerment and joy in navigating new destinations on my own.

In 2024, I decided to turn my lifelong passion into something more. I launched a travel blog as a way to bring my handwritten travel journals to life online, creating a space where I could share stories, tips, and inspiration with fellow travelers. Around the same time, I became a travel agent, a move that perfectly aligned with my blog and my passion for helping others plan unforgettable trips.

What started as a hobby has now become a fun and fulfilling business, and I’m loving every second of it. Whether I’m planning my next solo adventure or helping others explore the world, travel continues to be the heartbeat of everything I do.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve learned to embrace with travel is the need to pivot quickly and stay flexible. The unexpected is bound to happen, whether it’s a flight delay, cancellation, or last-minute itinerary change. You have to take every speed bump with a grain of salt and remind yourself that the journey is part of the adventure. Those unpredictable moments often lead to the best stories.

On the business side, since launching my travel business in 2024 after years of unofficially planning trips for friends and family, growing visibility has been a learning curve. It takes consistent effort to get the word out, build trust, and show people the value of curated travel experiences. But I’ve found that combining my passion with persistence makes the process incredibly rewarding. Every message from someone who’s been inspired by my blog or had an amazing trip I helped plan reminds me that it’s all worth it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in all kinds of travel planning, from cruises and all-inclusive vacations to group trips, solo getaways, and everything in between. Whether someone is dreaming of a Caribbean cruise, a cultural deep dive through Europe, or a girls’ trip to Scottsdale, I help bring those travel visions to life.

What sets me apart is the depth of personal experience I bring to the table. I’ve traveled to 49 U.S. states and 47 countries (and counting!), which gives me a unique ability to offer firsthand insight, practical tips, and honest recommendations. I don’t just book trips, I help people create meaningful, memorable adventures.

What I’m most proud of is how I’ve built this from a genuine love for travel. My business started out of passion, and that authenticity shines through in every trip I plan. I’m dedicated, detail-oriented, and I love helping others feel excited, informed, and confident about their travels. Travel isn’t one-size-fits-all, and I take pride in customizing every experience to match each client’s dreams, budget, and style.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe the quality that’s been most important to my success is genuine passion. Travel isn’t just something I do, it’s who I am. That passion drives everything; from the way I research destinations to how I connect with clients and design unforgettable experiences.

Beyond that, I’d say adaptability is key. Travel is full of surprises, and being able to pivot, stay calm, and find solutions, whether it’s a flight cancellation or a last-minute itinerary change, has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Clients trust me not just to plan their trips, but to guide them through the unexpected with confidence and care.

And finally, attention to detail plays a huge role. I truly believe that the little things, like personalized tips, local gems, and thoughtful touches, can turn a good trip into a great one.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jetsettingwithjen.net/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jetsettingwithjen16?igsh=OHM2bDYyM3RqdnJ0&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559817404241&mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jetsettingwithjen16?si=HOMqjm1LxafUaZVL
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jet-setting-with-jen-phoenix?osq=jet+setting+with+jen&override_cta=Request+a+quote
• Other: https://pin.it/7vxvtvIU8