School
Azusa Pacific University, University Of Edinburgh
Expertise
European Destinations, Cultural & Historical Quirks, Sustainable Travel Experiences
- A traveler with purpose, Emily worked on documentary short films in Central America, Eastern Europe and throughout Bangladesh in her twenties.
- She hitchhiked from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Tangier, Morocco, for a charity fundraiser in 2008.
- Curious about cultural intersections in all of her work, she traveled across Germany with her 2018 short film about the German film dubbing industry.
Experience
Emily has worked as a journalist and screenwriter since 2012. Starting her writing career with hometown stories about Los Angeles, she contributed work to Los Angeles Downtown News as well as in-flight magazines, websites, and travel blogs. She eventually authored US News and World Report's guide to the city in 2015. When she moved to Berlin, Germany, in 2017, she began digging deep in a new country — and a new language — and began authoring history-laden travel stories in Eastern Europe for Huffington Post, The Daily Beast, Thrillist, and Hidden Compass.
Education
Emily studied Theology & Ethics at Azusa Pacific University (Bachelor of Arts) and the University of Edinburgh (Masters in Theology), where she she graduated in 2008. Additionally, she studied abroad at the University of Oxford and the Catholic University of Paris.
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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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
Sprawling vineyards and quality wine may not be what immediately come to mind when you think of Michigan, but this stunning city has that and more.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
Paris is filled with charm, but its oldest district may be one of its most stunning offerings. This area has some of the best destinations in the city.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
When you think of Paris, you may think of stunning architecture, art museums, and perhaps even Disneyland. But it also has a stunning historical amusement park.
By Emily Manthei
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Travel Guides
By Emily Manthei
Are you looking to take in some impressive murals and street art? This Midwest city wins bragging rights for having the most spectacular artwork to explore.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
Mardi Gras is an unforgettable time of year at this iconic city, but the Halloween season offers spooky delights for all -- and smaller crowds.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
Rome may be a romantic city packed with history, but it's also expensive and incredibly crowded. This city offers an equally unforgettable experience for less.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
Airbnb transformed the short-term rental market, but there are plenty of downsides to using the service. Here's what to know before booking a rental in Japan.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
If you're looking for a fun and unique adventure, this natural phenomenon in Italy is worth the trip - the attraction looks like it defies gravity.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
Millions of people flock to this Spanish island every year, but its round the clock party vibe isn't for everyone -- and it comes with a steep price tag.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
While having a cup of coffee in America often means sitting and slowly sipping, you'll have to pay for that privilege in Italy where most people stand at a bar.
By Emily Manthei
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Travel Guides
By Emily Manthei
Florida is home to many gorgeous tropical islands, but one state park offers the best coral reef snorkeling experience you'll find in North America.
By Emily Manthei
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Travel Guides
By Emily Manthei
Do you love the beach, but also want to get some shopping in on your getaway? In this unique Midwestern locale, you can experience the best of both worlds.
By Emily Manthei
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Travel Guides
By Emily Manthei
Budget-friendly travelers will love this quiet, underrated Michigan beach town, which offers kayaking, fun, and festivals on the shores of Lake Huron.
By Emily Manthei
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Outdoor Adventure
By Emily Manthei
One of Michigan's most underrated, remote island destinations along the Great Lakes is only accessible by ferry and offers a unique paradise for visitors.
By Emily Manthei
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Destinations
By Emily Manthei
Relax in the bright-blue waters of these remote Italian hot springs, hidden in a spa town in Tuscany, nestled between vacation hotspots Florence and Rome.
By Emily Manthei
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Outdoor Adventure
By Emily Manthei
Along California's shoreline is a gorgeous secluded state park with sandy remote beaches, excellent hiking trails, and breathtaking, scenic mountain views.
By Emily Manthei
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