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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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
Explore trendy boutique stores and cafes in this charming Southern New Jersey town that's often listed as one of the best places to live in the state.
By S. Flannagan
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
Texas boasts some incredible historic small towns, but few of them offer the same wide range of attractions as the scenic riverfront town Gruene.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
Countless tourists pay fees to secure a good view of the London skyline. But, there are plenty of places from which to get amazing views of the city for free.
By S. Flannagan
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
A museum in the Federal Hill area of Baltimore displays the works of artists who thrive outside of the art world's strict commercial boundaries.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
Rick Steves has stayed in many different types of European lodgings, but these surprising, secret accommodations are some of the best for a safe solo trip.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
The entire family can enjoy experiencing the outdoors and appreciating fine art at the same time with a visit to this impressive New Jersey sculpture park.
By S. Flannagan
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
This beachfront park in Florida is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and discovering marine treasures, with plenty of nearby natural attractions to explore.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
A futuristic garden in Asia is a showcase to innovation and technology, with "Supertrees" that show what is possible with some farming science and creativity.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
Pennsylvania is full of natural wonders situated between its more populous cities, and this wildlife park and cave system combo is a delightful destination.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
Travelers of all ages will enjoy a laidback vacation on this North Carolina island known for providing ideal beach activities and so much entertainment.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
Experience a taste of Tuscany without leaving North Carolina at this family-run vineyard, offering locally-made Italian-style wines in the heart of America.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
Only 55 people finished this underrated 400-mile trail around the San Francisco Bay Area, known for some of California's most stunning views. Could you be next?
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
A beautiful coastal town in Tuscany is a best-kept-secret of the area. Visitors can enjoy stunning views, a boat-lined lagoon, and top-class restaurants.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
Travelers looking for a budget vacation should look no further than this Pennsylvania city, where they can enjoy culture, history and cuisine.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
In Europe, you can have a tropical vacation no matter the weather. Head to this gigantic indoor waterpark for sandy beaches, saunas, and other attractions.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
This Greek island near Rhodes features a stunning harbor town reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy hidden beaches, fresh seafood, and historical sites.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
Take a trip down the Jersey shore to this chic beach town dubbed the crown jewel of New Jersey's "Irish Riviera," with great dining, shopping, and hotels.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
Air travel can be stressful at any time of the year, but the winter holiday season can be especially fraught -- especially when your flight is delayed.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
You don't have to be a fishing enthusiast to appreciate this Florida landmark's significance in providing some of the best views anywhere in the Sunshine State.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
Wisconsin is often associated with cheese and cold winters, but this up-and-coming artsy town is hailed by some as the "Indie Capital of the Midwest."
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
As urban paddleboarding continues to grow in popularity, we break down the best five U.S. cities where you can take to the water.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
At this California municipal park, you can trek down scenic trails overlooking a flowing creek and take a dip in the refreshing urban swimming holes.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
This vibrant city in Nuevo León, Mexico, offers world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife that rivals the most fashion-forward party cities around the world.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
If you want to travel to Hawaii but aren't sure which island is the cheapest, we've compiled the most affordable Hawaii islands for your tropical vacation.
By S. Flannagan
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
This hidden gem in Nebraska offers the perfect blend of art and nature. Visitors can explore local galleries, natural parks, and the city’s quaint atmosphere.
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Travel Guides
By S. Flannagan
The next time someone tells you to take a hike, head to Italy's Amalfi Coast for the experience of a lifetime, as you see the most of this epic region.
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Destinations
By S. Flannagan
Family-friendly beaches can be hard to find in Europe, but this black sand paradise is the perfect destination for kids who love to swim.
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