Location
New York, New York
School
School Of Visual Arts
Expertise
Budget Travel, Ecotourism, Exploring History Through Travel
- In 2024, Mina went on a multi-city tour of Japan exploring local coffee culture.
- Living just outside New York City, Mina often spends her weekdays in bustling Manhattan and her weekends exploring remote hiking trails.
- Mina enjoys traveling to see animals in their native environments, from birdwatching in Olympic National Park to spotting Philippine long-tailed macaques by the beach.
Experience
Since 2023, Mina Elwell has written guides on Static Media's travel brands Explore and Islands for other travelers looking to explore new destinations through those passions. She has also written articles focusing on history, folklore, and nature. Mina is the author of several graphic novels, including "InferNoct," published by Scout Comics, and "Hellicious," published by SBI Press. Her short fiction has been featured in independent anthologies like The Haunted Box and the Eisner-winning Puerto Rico Strong. Currently, she is working on several upcoming horror comics and a multiple-choice game.
Education
Mina Elwell graduated with a BFA from the School of Visual Arts.
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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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Hikes in the Grand Canyon are more difficult than most people realize, but this trail is the most dangerous due to its steep drops, loose rocks, and high heat.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
If you want to experience the Alaskan wilderness, head to this under-visited state park that is full of pristine mountains, forests, glaciers, and beaches.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
In Michigan's upper peninsula lies one of the world's oldest and largest lava flows. It's housed in a historic park, and it should be on your list to visit.
By Mina Elwell
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Take in breathtaking mountain views and explore lively cities on a train route that crosses two national parks and 10 states on an incredible adventure.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Getting through the TSA checkpoint is one of the most stressful parts of air travel, and these airports with the worst TSA experiences don't make it any easier.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Travelers to Japan often encounter language barriers, and if you visit Tokyo Disneyland, communication will be very different in the Asian park than at home.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Most people don't think twice about sending their cameras through TSA's machines, but if you use a disposable camera, you may want to ask for a hand check.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
If you've been considering booking a guided Rick Steves tour in Europe, get to know common pros and cons, according to past travelers, before signing up.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
If you are looking for a fun, family-friendly outdoor adventure, head to this quiet Ohio lake state park for interactive trails and plenty of natural scenery.
By Mina Elwell
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If you've fantasized about staying in one of the nations' beautiful national parks for an extended period, know that many limit the length of your stay.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Any trip to Washington, D.C., is bound to be busy, but this spot belongs on your itinerary for its infamous past, unique tours, and vibrant theatrical present.
By Mina Elwell
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For a unique, rustic stay within Glacier National Park’s wilderness, hike to this historic lodge with access to challenging trails and gorgeous views.
By Mina Elwell
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Embark on a multi-day excursion through the Pacific Northwest’s enchanting forest landscape and be rewarded with a stunning beach sunset view in Oregon.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Finding a place to charge up when flying can be a pain. Many planes have outlets, but they're far from standard. Should you pack a power bank if flying United?
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Massachusetts may not be at the top of your list for beach getaways, but this lake less than 90 minutes from Boston is the perfect place to soak up the sun.
By Mina Elwell
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This 51-mile-long trail system is a multi-day rugged adventure through Zion National Park's most iconic sites. Best of all, you get to dodge the big crowds.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
If you're planning a trip from the United States to Europe, be mindful that not every hostel features this convenience that may otherwise seem commonplace.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Experience a gorgeous slice of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia with this one-hour hike to a picturesque viewing point hidden in the forest.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Within the stunningly decorated wooden walls of an immense temple in Kyoto, you’ll find an unusual artifact of human hair that has been preserved for centuries.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
If you’re embarking on a budget-friendly trip to Japan and want to save some cash, try grabbing a quick, surprisingly tasty meal at one of these stores.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Japan is undoubtedly the world’s vending machine capital. From full meals to haunted trinkets, here are some unique machines to check out on your next trip.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
For cheap, no-frills flights around Asia in 2025, you might want to consider booking with the airline deemed the “World’s Best Ultra Low Cost Carrier.”
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Visit multiple European cities and countries during your trip without breaking the bank by using this budget-friendly transportation option.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Outdoor enthusiasts in New York often have their sights set on the Catskills or the Adirondacks. The best choice for you depends on what you want to experience.
By Mina Elwell
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While you may not want to think about death on a tropical cruise, a ship must be equipped with the proper spaces and protocols to deal with medical emergencies.
By Mina Elwell
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For the ultimate adventure experience, trek or cycle across the state of New York on a 750-mile trail that passes by gorgeous landscapes and small towns.
By Mina Elwell
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Within the sprawling Adirondack Mountains, you can hike up a historic fire tower to catch the most incredible views overlooking Tupper Lake in New York.
By Mina Elwell
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