Travel and the outdoors aren’t weekend hobbies for me — they’re long-term commitments. I’ve explored more than 45 states, logged countless miles on highways and hiking trails, and turned that curiosity into a decade-plus career as a travel writer and content creator.
As the founder of CalExplornia.com, I serve as writer, photographer, historian, and content strategist — building a platform that highlights California’s landscapes, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures with depth and personality. From mountain ranges to coastal highways, I don’t just visit places — I research them, photograph them, and tell their stories in a way that makes readers want to pack a bag.
My experience spans travel writing, outdoor exploration, hiking content, destination features, and historically driven storytelling. I understand how to balance inspiration with practical value — weaving together logistics, local insight, and SEO strategy to create content that ranks well and reads even better. I’ve also managed content calendars, optimized site structure, and leveraged analytics to grow reach and engagement.
Because I’ve spent years exploring on foot, behind the wheel, and through the lens of a camera, my work carries authenticity. I know the difference between a scenic overlook and a spot worth waking up at 5 a.m. to catch first light.
In short, I combine boots-on-the-ground experience, editorial discipline, and SEO strategy to create travel and outdoor content that informs, inspires, and inspires readers to plan their next adventure.
What I've Worked On
Click on images for some of my writing samples.
Calexplornia.com: Owner
2014-Current
Own and operate Calexplornia, leading brand strategy and content development as a photographer, travel writer, and historian; drive audience growth through strategic networking, content optimization and active community engagement.
Job Skills Developed and Refined
Deepened knowledge and gained hands-on experience in the following areas:
Writing Skills
Local Experience Spotlights & Hidden Gems
Cultural & Historical Context Integration
Fact-Checking & Source Verification
Clear, Practical, Guide-Driven Writing Style
Balanced Tone: Informative Yet Engaging
Experience-Driven Storytelling
In-Depth Research
First-Hand Field Research & Location Analysis
Management Skills
Develop & Execute Content Strategies
Manage Editorial Calendar and Publishing
Outreach and Backlinking
Content Audits
Competitor Analysis
Technical Skills
WordPress Publishing & Content Updating
Photography
Keyword Research & On-Page Optimization
Performance Tracking & Content Analytics
Google Workspace and Compliancy
SERP-Optimized Headlines & Subheadings
Internal Linking & Topical Authority Development
Featured Snippet Structuring (FAQs, Lists, Quick Answers)
Kate Meier
Pillar Four Media
We loved working with Rick! Fantastic writer and easy to work with. Rick is a great writer and very attentive to detail. We will definitely work with him again!
8776628 Canada Inc.
Rick is an amazing freelancer. He immediately understands your requirements and delivers high quality work. He surpassed my expectations on all levels. I definitely recommend him to everyone who is looking for a true professional freelancer.
Nicola Rees
Raketech Group
Rick is a fantastic writer - hugely experienced and knowledgeable expert in US sports and sports betting. He was fast, efficient and thorough. I would definitely recommend Rick to anyone looking for an expert-level writer. He went above and beyond in this project producing authoritative, unique SEO-optimized content.
Smart Marketing Guys
Excellent work. Rick provided exactly what was asked of him.
Our Road To Thrive
Rick was awesome. He took the brief and executed it very well. He took any feedback on proactively and professionally. I will definitely hire him again when I need something further done.
Research Labs
Rick did a great job on the articles he did for me. Article subjects covered were sports, exercise, nutrition and weight loss. I will use Rick again for my next project.
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