In this week's Travel Tuesday Interview, I speak with senior editor Jordan Breal, an expert in Texas travel! As the magazine's travel writer, her role revolves around discovering the diverse wonders of Texas. The native of Fort Worth shares her essential destinations, top scenic routes, and the best barbecue spots to help you plan an unforgettable Texas journey!
Jordan Breal enjoying her hometown of Fort Worth, Texas.
Name: Jordan Breal Age: 35 Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas Website: texasmonthly.com/travel
1. What sparked your interest in travel? I began my journey as an editorial assistant in 2005, uncertain about my writing direction. However, I envisioned exploring Texas highways. A few months in, I helped create a travel page called "Street Smarts," and soon found myself increasingly immersed in travel stories. Dubbed "the Wanderer" by a former editor, my column launched in September 2012, and I've embraced the nomadic lifestyle ever since. I spend about a quarter to a third of each month reporting and rack up around 13,000 miles yearly. While I dreamed of cruising in a vintage Shelby Cobra, I'm still waiting for the rental keys!
2. Describe a typical workday as a travel writer. The beauty of being a travel writer is that no day is ever the same. While reporting, each day is packed with activities, interviews, and exploring new places. Evenings are for catching up on emails and managing projects. When I'm working from home, I focus on writing my column or editing travel features. I also brainstorm ideas, plan social media updates, and curate my Pocket list. Although I sometimes fantasize about a traditional 9-to-5 job, I thrive on the unpredictability of my schedule.
HEIM Barbecue in Fort Worth is one of Jordan's top recommendations. Don't miss the BBQ Snob sandwich!
3. Share your favorite barbecue spots in Texas. Readers eagerly await our Top 50 BBQ list, curated every four years by our barbecue editor, Daniel Vaughn, and the team. The next list is coming out at the end of May, and I can't wait to see if any new contenders challenge the reigning champion, Franklin Barbecue in Austin. Meanwhile, I'll be indulging in brisket, ribs, and sausage at:
Ocho at Hotel Havana in San Antonio is a must-try for Jordan.
4. What are your top three dining spots in Texas? Here are my current favorites:
- Julio's in Austin for its gooey enchiladas and amazing Mexican martinis.
- Ocho at Hotel Havana in San Antonio, where the breakfast menu tempts me every time.
- Ode Brewing Co. in El Paso, where I enjoyed a delicious fried cauliflower and black-bean burger meal.
5. What hidden gems in Texas do you recommend? For my latest cover story, I've highlighted countless favorite spots in Texas's smaller towns, including Ritual, a French-inspired eatery in East Texas; Rancho Loma Vineyards in Coleman; Front Street Books in Alpine; and Inn at Chachalaca Bend in the Rio Grande Valley. Texas's vastness ensures I'll always discover new places!
Jordan exploring the historic town of Saint Jo in North Texas.
6. What scenic drives do you recommend?
- For breathtaking views: Take your high-clearance vehicle to the River Road near Big Bend.
- For dramatic landscapes: Drive from Amarillo to Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
- For stunning wildflowers: Explore the Hill Country during spring, starting in Vanderpool.
7. What are three must-visit places in Texas?
- The Alamo, the birthplace of Texas liberty, along with its four sister missions.
- Big Bend, a vast national park that's a must-see.
- Padre Island National Seashore, the longest undeveloped barrier island, perfect for seashell collecting.
Jordan at the geographic center of Texas, near Brady.
8. What's a travel highlight for you? While I often focus on Texas, I do venture beyond state lines. One memorable trip was an eight-day road trip with friends from Austin to San Francisco, where we explored stunning landscapes like White Sands and Zion National Park. It reignited my dream of becoming a full-time overlander.
9. What are three essentials you pack for trips?
10. What's next on your travel agenda? Next week, I'm off to Round Top for antique hunting at the antiques shows. I also have a fun week planned at Port Aransas with friends, where we'll relax by the beach and enjoy some seafood.
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