Expertise
Urban Travel, Solo Female Travel, Asia
- Judith joined Islands in 2024 as a travel news writer.
- She hails from NYC but has been living abroad for 10 years. She is an endlessly curious traveler who has been to 20 countries so far.
- She is a coffee shop connoisseur and urbanite who gets her kicks from gazing out cafe windows while writing and sampling the culture of different cities around the world.
Experience
Judith began her writing journey as a travel blogger in 2011. She has since become a published article writer, both digital and in print, a content writer, and writes short stories in her free time. She has interviewed the Who's Who of expat communities, written profiles of rising and established artists, and written opinion pieces. She has contributed articles to Urbanist Magazine, Chao Hanoi, and The Tay Ho Times.
Education
Judith holds a bachelor's degree in geography with a concentration in cultural studies and a minor in Spanish. She is TEFL certified and completed an independent studies certificate in dance from The Alvin Ailey School of Dance.
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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You've never seen the Atlantic Ocean like this before! A unique viewing area in Acadia National Park allows you to get up close and personal with huge waves.
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Visit this off-the-beaten-track destination in Costa Rica for a slice of local life in a tropical paradise. Here's how to get there and what to do.
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Page, Arizona may not be a household name, but visitors to the town will find opportunities to visit a beautiful hidden sand cave and other natural wonders.
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Nestled in Portugal’s Alentejo region, this secluded beach has earned the title of World’s Leading Beach Destination three times, and for good reason.
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California
By Judith Barnes
California is known for playing host to many beautiful nature showcases, but this dazzling urban lagoon inside Oakland is one that shouldn't be overlooked.
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Washington
By Judith Barnes
Tucked away in the back of a neighborhood is where you'll find this hidden gem of a beach, a serene spot to spend a sunny Seattle afternoon.
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If you're looking for a truly tight squeeze in Utah, this slot canyon has just the place to go and all it takes to get there is an easy mile hike.
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Florida is known for being the Sunshine State, but that's especially true when experiencing this crystal blue lagoon complete with swim-up bars.
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If you're ready for a real-life Nintendo adventure, visit this go-karting track in southern Vietnam for epic thrills, laughs, and scenic views.
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Nestled in a beautiful region featured in famous Hollywood films, this uninhabited tropical island is a slice of paradise with a strange nickname.
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Those seeking some wet and wild fun in the sun should head to Texas' largest lagoon and experience the blue waters and endless sandy beaches.
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Restaurants
By Judith Barnes
With produce so fresh it's grown in the backyard and locally sourced ingredients, this bistro in the Adirondacks is a foodie's dream come true.
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Theme Parks
By Judith Barnes
This whimsical amusement park in New Hampshire, complete with fairytale characters and thrilling rides, is the perfect outing for the whole family!
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This celebrated stretch of white sand expanse in St. Lucia is the place to go for thrilling water sports, beachside massages, shopping, and dining.
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South Carolina
By Judith Barnes
Charleston, South Carolina is full of unique experiences that you can book throughout the city, including this authentic tour that allows you to go crabbing.
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Theme Parks
By Judith Barnes
Canada's largest shopping mall has an amazing indoor theme park and indoor waterpark as well as plenty of shops and restaurants for the whole family.
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Pennsylvania
By Judith Barnes
If you want fresh ingredients or traditional Amish pastries, canned goods, and furniture, head to an under-the-radar market in Pennsylvania.
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After sunning yourself on a gorgeous beach in Maui, swim among tropical fish and vibrant coral at an incredible snorkeling spot that is good for beginners.
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Pennsylvania
By Judith Barnes
Save money while enjoying the exciting atmosphere of an amusement park at this Pennsylvania gem near Lake Erie. Here's what you should know before visiting.
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If daily life simply isn't spooky enough for you, check out the strange nature reserve in Central Asia that has legends rivaling the stories of Area 51.
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In the pristine tropical setting of Zanzibar, you'll find one of the world's most scenic seafood restaurants that requires a wade through water to reach.
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Washington
By Judith Barnes
If you love outdoor concert venues, head to this scenic amphitheater in Washington that rivals Colorado's Red Rocks, and offers onsite camping and food.
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Illinois
By Judith Barnes
Traveling to a huge city like Chicago can seem intimidating when you're alone, unless you take advantage of this creative nightlife and dining tour.
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Restaurants
By Judith Barnes
If you are in Kansas and want to try the state's famous barbecue but are short on time, head to this iconic restaurant and get some from the vending machine.
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Portugal is a paradise thanks to coastal retreats like this region of white sandy beaches that hides an abandoned chapel and other unique treasures.
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Heading to Puerto Rico? Consider checking out this beach for smaller crowds and a chance to immerse yourself in unparalleled scenic beauty.
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New York
By Judith Barnes
While there is no shortage of art in New York City, a unique attraction in Lower Manhattan is a theatrical oasis with free concerts and a stunning facade.
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