The Snake-Filled Lakes Of South Dakota You'll Want To Think Twice About Swimming In
Ready to dive into adventure at some of South Dakota's best lakefront spots? Not so fast. Before taking a dip, read up on the snakes that lurk in the deep.
Read MoreJill Zwarensteyn
Islands Editorial Policies
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.
Stories By Jill Zwarensteyn
-
-
Michigan's Recreation Lake Haven Just Minutes From Downtown Detroit Dazzles With Beaches And Renowned Fishing
A little-known but beautiful recreational lake in Michigan shares a border with Canada and is a dazzling escape from downtown Detroit.
Read More -
This Wildly Popular Florida Destination Is Easily One Of The Deadliest Beaches In America
One of the most popular beaches in Florida is also one of the most dangerous in all of the U.S., thanks to an excess of shark attacks and rip current deaths.
Read More -
Michigan's Inland Waterway Hides A Friendly Village With Riverside Parks, Outdoor Fun, And Local Shops
Camp, hike, kayak, canoe, or bike along Michigan's legendary Inland Waterway, which passed through a friendly village with plenty of local shops and parks.
Read More -
Texas' Underrated Getaway Is Characterized By Its 'Colorado-Feel' With Mountain Views And A Charming Downtown
For a blend of history, mountain views, and a great downtown, head to this underrated getaway in Texas that feels like a Colorado mountain town.
Read More -
The 'Birthplace Of Birmingham' Is A Historic, Abandoned Alabama Landmark With Towering Structures
A visit to one of Alabama's most haunted and historic landmarks will give you an insight into the dark history of manufacturing in Birmingham.
Read More -
Arizona's Isolated Mountain Islands Are A Hikers Dream With Hidden Trails, Wild Beauty, And Serenity
These mountain islands in southeastern Arizona are like an oasis in the desert, home to pine forests, hiking trails, and wildlife like hummingbirds and coatis.
Read More -
A Top-Of-The-List Michigan Escape Is This Victorian-Era Waterfront Village With Beaches, Gardens, And Food
Discover this tiny town in the north of Michigan's Lower Peninsula that's known for its 19th century history, cliffside lighthouses, hiking trails, and beaches.
Read More -
You Should Think Twice About Wading Into These Snake-Populated Lakes And Rivers In Wisconsin
These freshwater swimming spots in Wisconsin hide slithering surprises that could turn your peaceful day out into a dangerous wildlife encounter.
Read More -
This Sandy Stretch Of Lake Michigan Shoreline Is A Wildly Underrated State Park With Quiet Beaches And Forest
This underrated state park near Saugatuck provides visitors with not just miles of pristine shoreline, but also miles of hiking trails nestled in a forest.
Read More -
Locals Call This One Street In Southeast Portland The Real 'Ice Cream Capital Of Oregon'
Chill out with a frozen treat from one of Portland's finest ice cream parlors, located on a popular food-laden street east of the Willamette River.
Read More -
Missouri's Quaint Resort Less Than Two Hours From St. Louis Offers Raft Thrills, River Floats, And Fishing
Not far from the big city, an outdoorsy Missouri resort gives visitors space to camp, cozy up in a cabin, and enjoy hours of incredible riverfront adventures.
Read More -
One Of The Best Retirement Spots In The US Is A Gorgeous Coastal Destination In Virginia
Looking for a place to retire that has charming neighborhoods, shoreline activities, and affordable living options? Here's one place that has it all.
Read More -
The California Bay Area's Sentimental Favorite Old-School Amusement Park Is Scheduled To Close
A classic Bay Area amusement park loved for generations may close after 2027. Find out why this nostalgic landmark's future is currently in doubt.
Read More -
Michigan's Most Charming Art Destination Is Full Of Award-Winning Local Pieces In The Heart Of The State
Big Rapids may not sound like a premier art destination, but Ferris State University features a collection of stunning sculptures, all free to visit.
Read More -
What Vacationers Should Know About Deadly Flesh-Eating Bacteria Found In Florida's Waters (And Seafood)
Brackish water has proven deadly in the Sunshine State as cases of a flesh-eating bacteria have been linked to the shimmering coasts of Florida.
Read More -
Europe's Largest Water Park Is So Crowded Tourists Are Calling It 'Fun Destroying'
Though it's won many accolades, many find Siam Park on the Spanish island of Tenerife to be a huge disappointment, from massive lines to floating feces.
Read More -
One Of The Best Places To Retire In America Is A Midwest Capital City With A Low Cost Of Living And Luxury Homes
This affordable Midwest city offers luxury retirement communities, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions that make it stand out for retirees.
Read More -
Here's How Anthony Bourdain Always Found The Best Local Restaurants When Traveling
If you want to eat authentic food when traveling like the late Anthony Bourdain, borrow some of the famous foodie's tips to avoid tourist trap restaurants.
Read More -
The Chicago Suburb Where Community Festivals, Green Parks, And Quiet Porches Outshine Big-City Noise
Only a short drive from bustling Chicago, this town in a neighboring state offers a peaceful but vibrant suburban life along with a reasonable cost of living.
Read More -
One Of The Best Places To Retire In America Is A Lively College City Known For Affordability Out West
Coming up on retirement age? Maybe it's time to start considering a change of scenery to this college city that's both affordable and great for retirees.
Read More -
These Game-Changing Affordable Laundry Hacks Can Save You Money On A Cruise
Discover clever ways to cut cruise costs with these laundry tricks that savvy travelers swear by. Your wallet will thank you on your next voyage!
Read More -
Can You Take Alcohol Onto A Cruise?
As your long-awaited cruise vacation looms, you imagine yourself with a glass of wine, overlooking the sparkling Caribbean. But can you bring alcohol onboard?
Read More -
The Most Common Medicines Travelers Need To Pack With Caution For Any International Trip
Traveling with prescription medications? Learn more about which common medications have special requirements abroad, and which ones are banned completely.
Read More -
One Of Michigan's Best-Kept Secrets Is A Lake Superior Lighthouse With Panoramic Views And Crowd-Free Serenity
Add this off-the-beaten-path gem to your next U.P. itinerary — a charming lighthouse that's blissfully free of crowds with stunning views of Lake Superior.
Read More -
Settled Outside Of Austin Is Texas' Friendly Pint‑size Retreat With Live Music And Small-Town Soul
They say everything’s bigger in Texas, but this pint-sized town near Austin proves otherwise, offering live music, dancing, and small-town soul.
Read More -
A Popular Midwest Airport Has The Most Understaffed Air Traffic Control Tower In America
Air Traffic Control understaffing has become an issue in the wake of DOGE cuts, and one Midwestern airport is working with less than half the standard staff.
Read More
