Location
Birmingham, Alabama
Expertise
Budget Travel, Nature Excursions, Family Trips
- Katie Leigh landed her first writing gig by submitting a piece about her favorite local waterfall and has been exploring the world in her writing ever since.
- As a mother of two, she is always looking for budget-friendly travel experiences that will instill in her children a love of nature and a curiosity about and respect for cultures.
- Some of her most treasured travel experiences include spelunking caves in New Zealand, a safari in Kenya, and road-tripping her way through ten national parks across the U.S.
Experience
In addition to writing for Islands, Katie Leigh also helps locals explore the wonders of her home state as a contributor for a regional publication, which constantly reminds her that there is always more of the world to explore, including in your own backyard. Whether she's spotlighting rural restaurants worth the drive from the city or advising parents on what to pack for their first family trip to Disney World, Katie Leigh is passionate about sharing experiences worth exploring while providing the practical tips to make them happen. By equipping Island readers with everything they need to know before they go, she hopes they'll experience the true magic of travel found in those moments you never could have planned.
Education
Katie Leigh earned her B.A. in communications from Samford University.
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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Travel Guides
By Katie Leigh Matthews
There's so much to see and explore around the Blue Ridge Mountains, and this South Carolina lake is an ideal choice for nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts.
By Katie Leigh Matthews
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Destinations
By Katie Leigh Matthews
Just outside of Birmingham lies a unique Alabama city comprised of a trio of villages that transport you back in time to a European fairytale-like experience.
By Katie Leigh Matthews
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