Location
Novato, California
School
The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising
Expertise
Size inclusive travel, Solo female travel, Group travel
- From 2016 to 2020, Annette worked remotely and traveled extensively throughout Southeast Asia.
- In 2017, she launched the world's first body-positive travel community, Fat Girls Traveling.
- Her most difficult hike to date was from Little Petra to the Monastery in Petra, Jordan.
Experience
Annette is an award-winning content creator, writer, and advocate. She won the 2019 Bessie Award for Collaboration of the Year and was nominated for Travel Noire's 2024 Travel Influencer of the Year. Annette also consults with travel brands that aim to be more accepting and inclusive of plus-size travelers. Her goals are to increase representation and create safe spaces for travelers who refuse to wait to lose weight before exploring the world. Since 2020, when she's not traveling, Annette splits her time between California and Mexico.
Education
Annette has an associate degree in Product Development from The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. She speaks conversational Spanish and is currently taking free online classes at Harvard.
Islands content is created by a team of veteran writers and editors passionate about travel. Outside experts with deep field knowledge sometimes inform our work with additional context and perspectives by way of exclusive commentary. Our goal is to offer readers well-rounded and diverse articles that inform, entertain, and inspire.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process is available here.
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Connecticut
By Annette Richmond
Discover the delightful Connecticut town along the river, the first English settlement in the state, which is now filled with interesting attractions.
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California
By Annette Richmond
Looking for a new destination to bring your pooch? Consider branching out to this Californian wine country escape that polled well for a dog-friendly getaway.
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Kentucky
By Annette Richmond
If it's a friendly environment you're looking for, you'll get that, along with plenty of shopping and outdoor activities, in this Louisville city.
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California
By Annette Richmond
Among the numerous beautiful areas of Joshua Tree National Park is an underrated desert oasis that offers a historic hike and views of wildlife.
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Tips and Hacks
By Annette Richmond
Take a note from travel expert Samantha Brown and book your vacation during this month for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and idyllic scenery wherever you go.
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Texas
By Annette Richmond
For a sampling of some of the best vino Texas has to offer, planning a vacation that includes a few days on this acclaimed wine trail is your best bet.
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A destination brimming with history and charm, this Ohio town has become a museum to the settlers who tried to build a progressive paradise here.
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Tips and Hacks
By Annette Richmond
Learn the game-changing laundry trick that travel expert Rick Steves swears by to pack lighter, save money, and turn wash day into an adventure abroad.
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Hawaii
By Annette Richmond
Hawaii has 50 state parks between all of the islands, but Maui's Wai’anapanapa is unique for its black sand beaches and stunning scenic trails.
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Air Travel
By Annette Richmond
Though its flight options are limited, this tiny, Iowa-based airport is known for being one of the friendliest places the fly out of.
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Africa
By Annette Richmond
Malawi is known as the "Warm Heart of Africa" due to the friendliness of the people there. Conservation efforts have also made it a great spot for safaris.
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One of Malaysia's best-kept secrets is a stunning island that combines lush rainforests, waterfalls, and some of Asia's healthiest coral reefs.
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Europe
By Annette Richmond
Hidden within Italy's Umbria region is a beautiful small village surrounded by history, which was also the inspiration for 'The Chronicles of Narnia.'
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Hotels and Resorts
By Annette Richmond
Don't make embarrassing tipping mistakes! This handy tipping rule will help you show proper gratitude during your upcoming all-inclusive resort stay.
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Connecticut
By Annette Richmond
Discover the delightful small town in Connecticut, which has been dubbed the state's 'Antiques Capital,' where visitors might find many hidden treasures.
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Hawaii
By Annette Richmond
Want a small town feel out in nature while still having big city attractions nearby? This spot in Hawaii offers the perfect chance to enjoy a scenic tour.
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Hiking
By Annette Richmond
Immerse yourself in natural beauty without straying too far from the big city when you explore this serene and stunning waterfall hike near Los Angeles.
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North Carolina
By Annette Richmond
Outside two major North Carolina cities, a true Southern gem awaits. Here, greenery-filled streets invite travelers to discover local art, eats, and more.
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Hawaii
By Annette Richmond
Treat yourself to a serene Hawaiian escape with some classic Californian influences. This beach town welcomes you with sandy shores and cozy cottages.
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Tips and Hacks
By Annette Richmond
Wait! Before you leave a museum during your next vacation, remember this important lesson from Rick Steves. Here's the one thing he says to look out for.
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Georgia
By Annette Richmond
This charming Georgia hamlet boasts a significant Native American site, a vibrant art scene, and a cultural complex surrounded by lush gardens and vineyards.
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Dining
By Annette Richmond
From osteria to trattoria and beyond, there are many types of eateries in Italy. However, this is the one that Rick Steves recommends for budget and flavor.
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