Location
Bristol, United Kingdom
School
Manchester Metropolitan University
Expertise
Japan & East Asia, Art & Culture, Adventure Travel & Hiking
- David grew up in Northern Ireland, but it was in Japan — where he lived for seven years — that he began writing about travel, news, art, and culture for newspapers and magazines.
- He has also lived in China and Australia and has traveled extensively throughout Southeast Asia and Europe.
- He's now mostly based in Bristol, England, and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers.
Experience
David has written for publications including Tokyo Weekender, The Japan Times, Al Jazeera, The Belfast Telegraph, The Independent, The Irish Independent, Lonely Planet, Intrepid Times, and Deeper Japan Journal. His first book, Intrepid Japan, was published in spring 2025 as part of a new travel book series by Australian publisher Hardie Grant. His second book, the next edition of the Frommer's Japan guidebook, is slated for publication in November 2025.
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.
-
California
By David McElhinney
If you're looking to live out your golden years in a state of calm, this luxurious, Zen-focused retirement community near Napa Valley is just for you.
Read More
-
Arizona
By David McElhinney
Cool off in this scenic and historic Arizona mountain town with an unusual name, where outdoor opportunities about near evergreen forests and sparkling lakes.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By David McElhinney
A stunning, scenic drive down the road to the "authentic America" in Pennsylvania takes visitors through tunnels of trees to a reservoir for premier fishing.
Read More
-
Texas
By David McElhinney
Seafood lovers should make sure to visit the shrimp capital of Texas, a charming small town on a scenic bay with gorgeous sunsets, a seawall, and a beach.
Read More
-
Illinois
By David McElhinney
When visiting Chicago, don't miss out on this nearby suburb with acclaimed restaurants, friendly people, and a historic downtown, all just a train ride away.
Read More
-
Oregon
By David McElhinney
This ghost town in eastern Oregon is a great place to explore and take in the Wallowa Mountains. It's also a great gateway to the Eagle Cap Wilderness.
Read More
-
North Carolina
By David McElhinney
This town in North Carolina may be small, but it is full of budget-friendly art festivals, a nostalgic cinema, and some beautiful trails. Find out more.
Read More
-
Europe
By David McElhinney
These beautiful urban gardens are located on the banks of a river in Porto, Portugal and are home to colorful peacocks that roam the grounds. Find out more.
Read More