School
North Central College
Expertise
National Parks, Travel Gear, Hiking
- Jon previously lived in a campervan while traveling across North America.
- His favorite destinations include London, Charleston, Oia, Chicago, and anywhere in the Rocky Mountains.
- When he's not road-tripping or hanging out at airports, you'll find him trail running or reading.
Experience
Jon has been a professional writer since 2019, originally working as a Medical Editor. He has since written for The Wall Street Journal, Metacritic, Slickdeals, GameSpot, and other high-profile outlets. He's also written a book for Macmillan Publishers. Jon has been traveling for as long as he can remember, primarily road-tripping throughout the United States with his wife and two dogs. He enjoys "traveling slow" and fully immersing himself in the local culture instead of checking boxes off a list.
Education
Jon graduated from North Central College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He was a member of the College Scholars program while also participating in Track and Field.
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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This enchanting Sedona shopping center is the perfect escape from the Arizona heat, offering art galleries, vibrant eateries, and ivy-laden architecture.
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With vintage road signs, eclectic museums, and desert views, this charming Arizona town is the perfect stop on a historic Route 66 road trip.
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This little lakefront town is pure Michigan, boasting sandy beaches where visitors can hunt for fossils, quaint eateries, and turquoise bay views.
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North Dakota
By Jon Bitner
North Dakota is a beautiful place for outdoor adventure, and for an underrated city to use as a base during your trip, check out this serene camping paradise.
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South Dakota
By Jon Bitner
With proximity to dazzling lakes, excellent hiking, small town charm, and tasty eateries, this South Dakota city is the perfect tranquil escape.
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For romantic Parisian vibes without leaving the United States, check out this park in Savannah that boasts canopied walkways and an ornate central fountain.
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Ditch the crowds at Columbia Gorge for this Oregon trail instead, boasting a scenic cascade shrouded by evergreen trees that feels straight from a fairy tale.
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If you're looking for a secret getaway in Arizona wine country, this little town is just the ticket, with vineyards, stunning hikes, and top-notch restaurants.
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For advanced and beginner skydivers who want an exhilarating experience with gorgeous views, head to this underrated city situated between Phoenix and Tucson.
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American Airlines will soon be rolling out changes that could mean that some passengers might get a free upgrade when they fly. Here's what's happening.
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With a vibrant craft beer and local dining scene, scenic nature to be enjoyed by foot or boat, and stunning lake views, this Michigan city is a Midwestern gem.
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To enjoy the best of Door County, Wisconsin, explore this gateway town offering plenty of adventure and some of the best Midwestern scenery and lake views.
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Connecticut
By Jon Bitner
For stunning views of the Atlantic, bijou accommodation, and small-town New England vibes, add this Connecticut city to your next New England itinerary.
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Tucked between the hills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains is a fun college town that is near trails while still being full of cafes, art, and youthful charm.
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If you're looking to hit the slopes in winter or mountain bike and hike in summer, this Colorado town is the perfect base for an outdoor-fueled getaway.
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If you're seeking peace and tranquility, this town in Indiana is the perfect getaway boasting lakefront recreation trails, tasty dining, and cozy accommodation.
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This Nevada town is a desert oasis with its verdant golf courses (some designed by Arnold Palmer!), world-class casinos that rival Vegas, and welcoming hotels.
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With small-town charm and proximity to Glacier National Park, this quaint Montana city is the perfect destination for exploring the great outdoors.
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Nestled into Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this magical freshwater spring stuns visitors with crystalline, turquoise water so vibrant it hardly looks real.
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Within the gorgeous North Cascade Mountains, you’ll find a quaint Washington town that offers access to plenty of outdoor recreation and pristine wilderness.
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With many amenities, things to do, and lifestyle perks like safety and sunny days, this Arizona city is the best place to retire in 2025. Here's the lowdown.
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Within Oregon’s Pacific Northwest landscape, there is a desert canyon getaway. Float down the river while passing marbled mountain walls and stunning red rocks.
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Pennsylvania
By Jon Bitner
Pennsylvania is an outdoor paradise, and nestled right in the Allegheny Mountains is the perfect fun and artsy city with great trails right on its doorstep.
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This lakefront town in Michigan is a dream, boasting serene beaches, a scenic boardwalk, tasty eats, and events to keep you entertained year-round.
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West Virginia
By Jon Bitner
Cascading over 50 feet, this waterfall is West Virginia's most photographed, and for good reason. Explore its state park's many trails and great amenities.
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This breathtaking Arizona city, known for its energy vortexes, spiritual sites, and zen atmosphere, is dubbed the world's most mindful destination. Here's why.
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Not far from the booming metropolis of Chicago is an artsy city with a suburban feel and access to diverse cuisine, hiking trails, and plenty of shopping.
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