School
University of Colorado at Boulder
Expertise
Budget travel, Road trips, Western USA travel
- Kelley was a part of the inaugural travel writing team at Wealth of Geeks.
- Her favorite travel articles so far have allowed her to share her knowledge on the sights of San Diego, "America's Finest City," and surrounding areas.
- She has traveled extensively around the United States and aims to visit all 50 states within the next three years.
Experience
Kelley has more than 20 years of writing and editing experience. She served as both assistant and associate editor at Mortgage Originator magazine, a former trade magazine servicing the mortgage brokerage industry. She's also written about dog-friendly travel for Examiner.com and her alumni publication, The Coloradan. For the last three years, she has been a full-time nomad living as a house sitter and can provide knowledge on budget travel and road trips. She is also an event planner and scenic photographer, working on a memoir and a series of personal essays.
Education
Kelley has a bachelor's degree in news-editorial journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
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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The majestic Oregon coast offers breathtaking beauty, and you can enjoy it all year by camping in this park where wild elk graze and the fishing is world-class.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
This Southern California community attracts visitors and retirees with a great mix of warm, sunny weather and community spaces, events, and attractions.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
Route 66 once connected thriving towns across the country, including this California ghost town, which boasts historic buildings in a charming desert landscape.
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If you drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff, or vice versa, this spot is worth a stop, especially if you are into stunning views and one-of-a-kind experiences.
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This Oregon tribal-owned casino brings luxurious accommodations, dining, entertainment, and gaming to a beautiful natural setting in the Umpqua Valley.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
When you want to flee the city without traveling hundreds of miles away, this adorable California town perfect for outdoor adventure is the place to go.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
This park on a peninsula in San Diego is home to five species of hummingbirds, stunning tide pools, overlooks to spot whales, and trails for all abilities.
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With riverside hikes, fishing, and Gold Rush history, this Oregon town is a quaint escape. Make sure to time your visit for the quirky Rooster Crow festival.
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This desert town is livable for both college students and permanent residents, with opportunities for outdoor recreation, arts and culture, and night-time fun.
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Escape from Portland to a quaint coastal village without the crowds. This town with stunning sunsets, delicious seafood, and unique antiques is a must-see.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
Enjoy live music while admiring the work of dozens of artists at this annual California festival, which takes place in a charming park with mountain views.
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Discover the best of the Wild West in this central Arizona town, including countless sunny days, gorgeous hiking trails, and historic saloons with live music.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
This unique resort offers relaxation, fun, and beautiful views, all amidst fresh invigorating nature environments!
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This rustic lodge on Route 66 near Flagstaff features extra-spacious rooms, a general store, a game room, and a Nordic spa with a pool, sauna, and hot tub.
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The vast landscapes of Oregon offer a variety of ways to enjoy the state, but this state park opens up the great outdoors for travelers who love adventure.
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Discover the abandoned mine and ghost town located in the Verde Valley that has been transformed into what has been called 'Arizona's Strangest Museum.'
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This town in Colorado has so many opportunities to learn about the area's history and immerse yourself in some art or music.
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Who says you have to go to Vegas to get in a show? This SoCal resort offers guests world-class golf and a theater, and was founded by a legendary entertainer.
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This beautifully scenic byway is a great option to drive through the landscape around the Grand Canyon National Park.
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Located south of the nation's capital is a historic city that allows you to reconnect with history and enjoy various festivals and a massive farmer's market.
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This Oregon hidden hotspot is a must-visit for those looking to connect with nature or look back at the area's history.
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Escape Arizona’s hot desert landscape in a cool high-elevation town with easy access to forest trails, lakeside attractions, and outdoor recreation.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
This national seashore in California offers visitors a wide array of beaches, cliffs, lagoons, and wildlife reserves to choose from. Here's how you can explore.
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There are countless natural wonders to see in Arizona, and if you want something a little off the beaten path, Apache Lake is the perfect destination for you.
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An entire community came together to create a collective colorful work of art at this unusual Oregon beach. Stop by for the photo op and add to the display.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
For Urban explorers and outdoor adventurers, this city that played a role in the history of the Hollywood movie industry offers the best of both worlds.
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Travelers looking to experience Colorado hot springs and beautiful Rocky Mountain hikes should visit this small town with a slower pace of life.
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