Vacationers of the Week: Katie and Jody Brooks
At Vacationer, we also like to feature travelers who aren’t necessarily jetsetters, but regular LGBTQ+ folks that love to travel. So, our Vacationers of the Week are Katie and Jody Brooks, former Cali women, who now reside in Medford, Oregon.
Katie, 36, and Jody, 41, have been together for nine years. Katie works as a clinical pharmacy technician for the Veteran Affairs, and Jody creates furniture and stays at home to take care of their two dogs. These women said they didn’t intend to influence anyone, but after two years and 10,000 followers on Instagram – well, here they are!
Vacationer Magazine: At what age did you receive your first passport? What was your first trip?
Katie Brooks: I got my first passport when I was 15. I traveled to Mexico with my best friend and the church we were attending.
Jody Brooks: I don’t have a passport, but I will get it soon for our dream vacation in Greece! Our first trip together was to Portland, Oregon, where Katie was becoming a Zumba instructor.
What trip or travel experience sparked your passion for travel?
Our first few trips to the beach together really set the pace for our love to get out and about. We loved finding peace in the ocean and feeling small when we visit the forest. We can’t wait to expand our travels!
What inspires you to travel?
We travel for relaxation. Our lives are busy, and we depend on our trips to rejuvenate and restore us.
Please tell us how you identify yourself on the LGBTQIA spectrum. Tell us if how you identify influences the way your travel. If so, how?
We both consider ourselves lesbians – Jody being pansexual. When we travel it’s a big deal to stay safe. We never put ourselves in areas that might not be LGBTQ-friendly. We check reviews on hotels, restaurants, and common places for sightseeing. And we always check the areas around where we are visiting, too.
Initially, was it easy traveling with one another? What are the perks of traveling as a couple?
Absolutely! Whatever one forgets the other remembers. Traveling with your best friend is amazing. We get to laugh together, share memories while making new ones, and we enjoy those long silent moments during our car rides together. We always take our time and stop at all the viewpoints on the way to our destination. Traveling together is just so peaceful.
How would you describe your travel style in three words?
Adventurous, light-hearted & relaxed.
What are three things you would recommend to LGBTQ+ travelers visiting Portland for the first time?
Portland is so diverse and close to Seattle Washington which is also LGBTQ friendly. Portland has a lot of LGBTQ-safe bars, restaurants, and bed & breakfast places to stay. Also hair salons, tattoo parlors, and drag shows!
Always check out the area. If you’re coming to Portland, there is less risk. Most places are super safe! Medford is a little tricky because we are surrounded by conservatives. We’ve never been physically threatened however people aren’t afraid to shout slurs or stare.
What are your top three favorite places to visit?
Portland, Oregon – The diversity is amazing and we feel right at home
Lincoln City, Oregon – This sleepy beach town is so welcoming, and the beaches are amazing!
Reno, Nevada – Everyone here is friendly. The people said “hello” when passing by and the scenery is easy to find!
What places are still on your bucket list to visit? Why?
Alaska – Jody wants to see the northern lights.
Greece – It looks beautiful, and friends who have traveled there say they feel safe and the food?! Yes, please!
What’s one thing you never forget to pack in your suitcase?
Hairspray
You’re going on a road trip. What singer or band is always on your playlist?
Jody – It’s Justin Bieber, Brothers Osborne, or any country.
Katie – I love everything from Pink Floyd to the Backstreet Boys.
