I took my first solo trip at 13 — a Greyhound bus from Chicago to visit my grandmother in Memphis. My mother packed me a brown bag lunch, wrote the gate number on my palm in ballpoint pen, and told me to pay attention. I’ve been paying attention ever since.

I’m Patricia King — a travel journalist, essayist, and the voice behind Savvy Traveling. Over a 30-year career in journalism, I’ve written for newspapers, magazines, and digital publications about everything from local politics to international cuisine. But travel has always been my first love.

I launched Savvy Traveling to fill a gap I kept noticing in travel media: the 50+ traveler — curious, experienced, financially capable, and deeply underserved by an industry obsessed with youth. My readers are women who just retired and are finally ready to see the world. Grandparents planning once-in-a-lifetime trips with their grandchildren. Solo travelers who’ve stopped waiting for someone to go with them.

My philosophy is what I call Value Luxury: the belief that exceptional travel experiences don’t require a trust fund — just smart planning, the right information, and a willingness to say yes to the unexpected.

Things You Should Know About Me

• I’ve been to all 50 states and counting. Georgia is home, but Alaska has my heart.
• I believe the best meal of any trip is always the one you stumble into by accident.
• I travel solo more often than not — and I think every woman should try it at least once.
• I pack light. One carry-on, always. It’s a philosophy as much as a practice.
• I’m a morning person. I’ve watched the sunrise in more cities than I can count.
• I believe in tipping well, learning a few words of the local language, and always having a backup plan for the backup plan.