Rick Steves Warns Tourists To Avoid One Dangerous Assumption About Pickpockets In Europe
If you're planning a trip to Europe, you've likely heard about the pickpockets. However, you can dodge thieves by avoiding this one assumption.
Read MoreLauren Kershner
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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.
Stories By Lauren Kershner
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Just Outside New York City Is America's Longest Haunted House With 10 Hair-Raising Attractions
This record-breaking haunted attraction features terrifying themed houses packed with scares, creepy characters, and an unforgettable Halloween experience.
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Sandwiched Between Eugene And Bend Is A Hidden Oregon Community Built Around Hot Springs And Outdoor Fun
From riverside pools to forested trails and volcanic vistas, this under-the-radar Oregon retreat offers the perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor fun.
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The 'Eden Of Ohio' Blends Waterfall Hiking Trails, Lake Recreation, And A Film-Worthy Retro Diner
It's easy to overlook small towns in America, and the Eden of Ohio is no different. But here you'll find a hidden gem with outdoor fun and a great greasy spoon.
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5 Secret Places In Los Angeles Only Locals Know About (And I Almost Don't Want To Share)
If you're hoping to avoid LA's considerable number of tourist traps during your next visit, feast your eyes upon this collection of lived experiences.
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One Of Missouri's Most Picturesque Cities Is A Charming Route 66 Gem With Nostalgia And Majestic Caves
This Missouri Route 66 treasure captures classic Americana with retro motels, scenic forests, and one of the state's most remarkable cave systems.
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Oregon's Outdoor Recreation Mecca With A Quaint Downtown Is A Riverfront Mill City Just Outside Of Portland
This Oregon town just outside of Portland boasts endless outdoor adventure in every direction and a downtown full of culture and delicious food.
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A Creepy Abandoned Zoo Can Be Found On A Haunting New Hampshire Trail With Unparalleled Views
Explore one of New England's most hauntingly beautiful trails, where the remnants of a long-forgotten zoo hide within lush forests and tranquil ponds.
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Rick Steves Says The Best Eiffel Tower Spot For A Stunning View Of Paris Isn't Even At The Top
You might think the top of the Eiffel Tower will offer the best views, but Rick Steves disagrees. Here's where to take in the Seine, Arc de Triomphe, and more.
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This New England Getaway With Quaint Coastal Charm Makes 2025's 'It List' For The World's Best Resorts
Nestled along Maine's coast, this charming seaside resort blends timeless New England style with modern luxury, landing on Travel + Leisure's 2025 It List.
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Memphis' Mansion-Lined Park Is A Forested Tennessee Gem With Lush Gardens And A Renowned Music Venue
In the heart of Memphis, this historic park is a lush retreat filled with forest trails, blooming gardens, elegant mansions, and a storied open-air music venue.
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Amtrak's Most Scenic Ride Highlights Some Of America's Best Sights On An Iconic Route From Chicago To L.A.
Journey with Amtrak from Chicago to Los Angeles on a scenic rail adventure filled with desert views, Route 66 charm, and unforgettable stops.
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Oregon's Affordable Neighborhood Along The Pacific Northwest's Scenic Coast Is Just Two Hours From Portland
For a peaceful and quiet trip to the Oregon Coast, consider this affordable neighborhood around two hours from Portland that is filled with vacation rentals.
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California's Coastal Garden Paradise Sits On A Bluff With Breathtaking Ocean Views
This botanical garden spans 47 acres along California's Highway 1 and invites visitors to explore its 4 miles of hiking trails, offering stunning ocean views.
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Chicago's Storybook Suburb Is A Village With A Walkable Downtown, Vintage Theater, And Equestrian Clubs
If you need a break from the busy streets of Chicago, venture out to this suburb offering a cozy downtown, equestrian trails, and historic architecture.
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Washington's Dreamy City Has A Lovely Walkable Downtown With Sweeping Views And Portland Proximity
An underrated Washington city near Portland offers a walkable downtown, sweeping views, and small-town charm surrounded by Pacific Northwest beauty.
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Why Chicago Might Be The Best Place To Celebrate Oktoberfest Outside Of Germany
Beer gardens, bratwurst, and Bavarian flair await in the Midwest, where one city celebrates Oktoberfest with surprising enthusiasm and style.
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'The Black Greenwich Village' Boasts Restaurants, Jazz, And Shopping In A Vibrant Los Angeles Cultural Hotspot
This thriving LA community blends rich heritage with live jazz, eclectic shops, and soulful dining, offering a cultural retreat unlike anywhere else.
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California's Funky Little Artsy Town Is A Charming Getaway Surrounded By Redwoods, Local Shops, And Parks
Nestled in Northern California's redwood country, this funky small town charms visitors with quirky shops, roadside attractions, and nearby parks.
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Tucked Next To Chicago Is A Scenic Walkable Suburban City Full Of Arts, Culture, And Affordable Homes
If you ever find yourself being one of Chicago's 50 million yearly visitors, there's a suburb near the Windy City that offers an affordable artsy experience.
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Escape Into The Beautiful Adirondack Foliage By Train Before Fall Ends
Savor the magic of fall with a scenic train journey through fiery foliage, cozy cities, and unforgettable landscapes before the season fades.
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Outside Amarillo Is Texas' Charming Route 66 City With One-Of-A-Kind Attractions, Shops, And Unique Stays
Route 66 is an American landmark that spans more than half the country, and one small town in Texas takes advantage of its highway proximity.
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One Of America's Most Beautiful Bridges Connects Two Islands In The Pacific Northwest
Walk or drive across this magnificent steel bridge spanning two Washington islands. Better yet, admire it from afar on a beach or hiking trail.
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Nestled Between Napa And Sacramento Is A Small-Town Corn Maze Full Of New England-Style Charm In California
Not only is this corn maze the perfect dose of fall in the middle of sunny California, but it also happens to be among the largest corn mazes ever made.
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The 'Forest City Of The Ozarks' Is An Underrated, Idyllic Missouri Charmer Between St. Louis And Springfield
Nestled between St. Louis and Springfield, this small town blends outdoor beauty, historic charm, and retro Route 66 adventures worth the drive.
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Colorado's Most Famous Hotel Is 'America's Most Haunted' For A Famed Film Legacy And Iconic Reputation
From apparitions of cowboys and chambermaids to inspiring an iconic novel and movie, this Colorado hotel is equal parts decadent and haunted.
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North Carolina's Haunted Coastal Trail Explores The State's Intriguing Dark History And Ghostly Tales
From pirate lore to phantom footsteps, North Carolina's coast reveals chilling stories that bring its darker past to life for curious travelers.
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