Noreen Kompanik

Noreen Kompanik is a freelance journalist and photographer from San Diego, California. After almost 35 years as a registered nurse and legal nurse consultant, she hung up her stethoscope for good to travel the world and write about her adventures. She is the pioneer of Great Escape Publishing’s Travel Writers Café and has been an instructor at their travel writing events for six years.

Her interests include history, food, wine, beach destinations, sustainable living, and of course, travel. Her stories have appeared in Travel Pulse, Edible San Diego Magazine, Europe Up Close, International Living, Food, Wine, Travel Magazine, San Diego Explorer, and more.

Noreen is a member of the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance (ITWPA), International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) and the San Diego Press Club.

You can find samples of her published stories on her website whatsinyoursuitcase.com

9 Best Things to Do in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico

March 19, 2021 By Noreen Kompanik

— Puerto Peñasco, Mexico — Fondly referred to as “Arizona’s Beach,” Puerto Peñasco is so nicknamed as it happens to be the closest coastal beach town to major Arizona cities, sitting only-66 miles … [Read more...] about 9 Best Things to Do in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico

9 Best Things to Do in Todos Santos, Mexico

February 16, 2021 By Noreen Kompanik

There’s magic at work in Baja Sur, Mexico’s Todos Santos. One of 120 Mexican towns to be designated a pueblo magico (magic town) for its enchanting beauty, cultural riches, or historical relevance. … [Read more...] about 9 Best Things to Do in Todos Santos, Mexico

9 Best Things to Do in Taos, New Mexico

February 1, 2021 By Noreen Kompanik

D. H. Lawrence once described Taos as a “state of mind”, and this transcendental place had been on my travel wish list for years. When I finally visited, I understood why the pull had been so … [Read more...] about 9 Best Things to Do in Taos, New Mexico

10 Best Things to Do in La Paz, Mexico

February 1, 2021 By Noreen Kompanik

Although it’s the capital of the state of Baja California Sur and home to nearly 200,000 people, La Paz, Mexico is slow-paced and relaxed. The colorful city is the gateway to the Sea of Cortez, where … [Read more...] about 10 Best Things to Do in La Paz, Mexico

10 Best Things to Do in Kauai, Hawaii

December 23, 2020 By Noreen Kompanik

Known for its unique geography and unparalleled natural beauty, Kauai is one of the most breathtaking islands in the world. Ninety-seven percent of its land is covered with verdant, … [Read more...] about 10 Best Things to Do in Kauai, Hawaii

11 Best Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii

November 30, 2020 By Noreen Kompanik

I often call Maui the sampler platter of the Hawaiian Islands. Commonly known as the Valley Isle, Hawaii’s second-largest island enthralls visitors with its staggeringly beautiful scenery. You name … [Read more...] about 11 Best Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii