Expertise
Europe by train, Slow travel, Budget travel
- S. Flannagan has made a habit of conquering a wide range of "modest peaks," from Icelandic volcanoes to Namibian sand dunes and the mountains of Ireland.
- He once made it across Germany using eleven regional trains in ten hours and managed to arrive at his destination on time despite missing one connection.
- He is adept at finding the best-kept secrets of Old Town districts in many European cities.
Experience
S. Flannagan has worked as a marketer and writer in Berlin since 2012, where he has collaborated with various travel brands while also exploring Germany and its neighboring countries. He loves traveling Europe by train, especially Polish trains, where dumplings and beer are served in the dining cars. His favorite recent adventure was a road trip from Cape Town, ZA, to Windhoek, Namibia, in 2023. Botswana is currently at the top of his travel bucket list.
Education
S. Flannagan holds a B.A. in English language and literature and an M.A. in English literature, language, and culture, with experience in examining popular music through the lens of literary criticism.
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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Restaurants
By S. Flannagan
West of Manhattan is an unsung and affordable foodie hub with more incredible Central and South American restaurants than you can hope to eat at in a lifetime.
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California
By S. Flannagan
One donut shop in Carmel-by-the-Sea has gained a large social media following and has been drawing in tourists thanks to its unique flavors.
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Air Travel
By S. Flannagan
Cameron Hewitt reveals the unexpected airplane freebie that savvy travelers should always collect — and it's not what you'd think it would be.
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Knowing how to dress when you're in a foreign country is important, especially if you're visiting religious sites. Here's what Rick Steves says to pack.
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Hawaii has no shortage of snorkeler's dream spots, but this surfer's paradise on Oahu boasts beautiful shore-snorkeling, breezy hikes, and tasty Hawaiian food.
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From leathercraft and antiques to lakeside cafés and cowboy barbecue, this Utah hub blends character with convenience for outdoor explorers.
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Delaware has a wide variety of beach options, from bustling family-friendly towns to ones suited for nightlife, but there's a more laid-back option nearby, too.
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This little-known spot is home to countless species and boasts nearly 200 miles of trails and roads to explore, not including the paddling and boating options.
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Florida has some of the best places in the country for snorkeling and diving. Within a stunning cavern, you can explore an ancient spring’s warm, clear waters.
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Glimpse into the mining history of the region at this Arizona ghost town, which is filled with souvenirs and exciting Wild West-related attractions.
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Just outside Orlando, this future-focused community blends wellness, work, and play, appealing to both retirees and young professionals alike.
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Get ready for backcountry snorkeling, an exciting outdoors activity that offers an in-depth exploration of Oregon’s rich underwater landscapes.
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Journey into Britain's largest gorge for an unforgettable trip. Hikes, history, and even delicious cheese await travelers who explore this unique destination.
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After a day of adventuring in the Adirondacks, relax on a beautiful beach while admiring a gorgeous sunset at a quiet lake in New York’s pristine nature.
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This beautiful state park -- the largest in Missouri -- is a perfect Midwestern paradise offering visitors tons of fun activities and nature views.
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Arts and Culture
By S. Flannagan
Journey into Nevada for an incredible outdoor art festival. Hosted annually in Boulder City, this creative event promises hours of fun for artsy adventurers.
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For a budget-friendly alternative to Napa Valley, South Africa has an award-winning wine region with delicious varieties close to Cape Town.
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Massachusetts
By S. Flannagan
Cape Cod may evoke images of sparkling ocean views and sandy beaches, but the charming locale is home to an unexpected abundance of beautiful hikes, too.
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Wisconsin
By S. Flannagan
No visit to the Midwest is complete without a stop in the best city for delicious cheese, unique breweries, and specialty sausages in the region.
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Connecticut
By S. Flannagan
If trips to popular beach destinations leave you feeling cramped by crowds, you might want to try visiting this inviting Connecticut town instead.
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Florida may be the "Sunshine State," but what some travelers may not know is that there's specifically a "Sunrise City" within it that's worth visiting.
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Wander amid thundering falls and towering trees at this enchanting Vancouver Island park, home to a glistening lake and secluded campsites.
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North Carolina
By S. Flannagan
For some of the best seafood on the East Coast, take a trip to this North Carolina beach town where you can catch your own or sample its restaurants' dishes.
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This historic Virginia destination offers small town charm with a smattering of scenic vineyards, foodie-centric restaurants, and equestrian events.
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Finding new places to travel to is always fun, and there's hardly a better under-the-radar European country to visit than this youthful, tourist-friendly gem.
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South Carolina
By S. Flannagan
South Carolina is home to a wonderful public park where Charleston residents and visitors can experience romantic walks in a vibrant outdoor space.
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While this city is a bucket-list destination for many, it's been named the most stressful vacation spot in the world for its tourist crowds and noise.
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