Expertise
Family & Solo Travel, Travel Planning For The Adventure Enthusiast, Exploration Tips
- As an explorer at heart and lover of nature, Katie has traveled throughout much of Central and South America during her expansive career in coffee.
- So far, she has lived in 17 cities in 8 different states. As a lone woman seeking amazing life experiences, she has investigated every inch of each place in pursuit of breathtaking moments in nature and city adventures.
- Whether writing engaging guides to travel destinations, speaking lovingly about outdoor adventures, or sharing a candid look into life as a solo traveler or one with child-friendly themes, her love of travel always shines through.
Experience
Katie has written for numerous sites and magazines over the last 20 years. She specializes in travel, nature, and animal-related topics, which she thoroughly enjoys researching. Her writing is straightforward and fact-based but always comes from a place of experience and heart.
Education
Katie studied journalism, English literature, and philosophy while at college in Greensboro, NC. She was also a certified Cup of Excellence judge in the early 2000s.
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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Zion National Park in Utah is popular for very good reasons, but there's another park nearby that offers incredible hiking and scenery with smaller crowds.
By Katie Downey
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One of Georgia's biggest and most thrilling state parks is an ideal choice for adventurous travelers who still want a little luxury with glamping options.
By Katie Downey
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Travel Guides
By Katie Downey
There are only four green-sand beaches in the world, and this small Hawaiian destination offers a magical experience for travelers who make the trek.
By Katie Downey
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Even though you are responsible for your own safety, the National Park Service will come to your rescue when needed. Help them out by wearing these colors.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Area 51 may be off-limits to the everyday traveler. However, you can still get your fill of aliens on the nearby themed stretch of highway in Nevada.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Many people have heard the legends of Australia's dangerous wildlife, and that's certainly the case when it comes to one of the country's most stunning islands.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Forget lions, tigers, and bears, because we have sharks to deal with! This popular Australian beach is unfortunately known for having a lot of shark attacks.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Even night owls might consider rising early to take in the stunning morning views afforded by this popular, if somewhat challenging, hike up a mountain in Bali.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica and have a penchant for the morbid, you might be curious about the "Cave of Death." Here's what you need to know.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Popular tropical islands can often exceed your desired price ranges, but this special destination blends paradise with budget-friendly adventures.
By Katie Downey
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Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this national park offers a wide variety of accessible outdoor activities, nature courses, and lodging for everyone.
By Katie Downey
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Travel Guides
By Katie Downey
Mexico has some of the best street food in the world. However, you should be alert to any potential red flags that could wind up making you sick.
By Katie Downey
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West Virginia is known for its wildlife and beauty, but Pipestem Resort State Park takes the cake. Find out what makes this park perfect for adventure lovers.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Sometimes paradise exists in the places we least expect, and one particular remote Midwestern national park is a shining example of a hidden gem.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Skip the tourist traps in Bali and head to this stunning but lesser-visited area of Indonesia for a more authentic island getaway without the crowds.
By Katie Downey
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It might take some time and energy to get to this secret swimming hole in Hawaii, but the rugged hike is well worth the joy you'll feel at your destination.
By Katie Downey
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West Virginia's largest state park is jam-packed with incredible views from morning to night, no matter what time of year you happen to visit.
By Katie Downey
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Travel Guides
By Katie Downey
Aside from its scenic hiking trails, this national park has some of the cleanest air in the country. Breathing in quality air while exploring nature? A win-win.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
Overtourism and crowds have made Bali undesirable to many travelers, and people should consider this incredible Indonesian destination instead.
By Katie Downey
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Travel Guides
By Katie Downey
We aren't exaggerating when we say this national park has the tallest dunes in the U.S. Plus, it has activities that will thrill the whole family.
By Katie Downey
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Destinations
By Katie Downey
When you think of Costa Rica, you likely think of lush greenery and an abundance of wildlife, and this national park surely delivers on both.
By Katie Downey
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Travel Guides
By Katie Downey
Traveling solo can be intimidating, and staying safe is the utmost priority. Luckily, for women traveling solo, Rick Steves' female staffers have great advice.
By Katie Downey
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Travel Guides
By Katie Downey
Nestled beside a lush national forest, this resort in North Carolina offers a secluded, relaxing, and romantic getaway for couples to connect and unwind.
By Katie Downey
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