Location
Oaxaca De Juarez, Mexico
School
SOAS University Of London, University Of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, London School Of Journalism
Expertise
Latin America Travel, Middle East Travel, Slow Travel
- In 2022, SJ joined the team at National Geographic Traveller as a project editor, contributing many stories to the magazine as a writer and editor.
- In 2023, SJ made her first contribution to a book, writing a chapter entry for Lonely Planet based on her travels in Colombia.
- SJ has written several cover features for magazines with a distribution of more than 250,000.
Experience
SJ has worked as a professional travel writer since late 2019. Originating from London, she writes for many of the most prestigious titles in the UK, including most of its major newspapers and top selling travel magazines. She's rarely found at home, however, having been travelling for six and a half years and researching stories in 100+ countries and six continents.
Education
SJ holds a BA (Hons) in Literature and History from the University of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and an MA in Postcolonialism Studies from SOAS (University of London). She also undertook a course on Feature and Travel Writing at the London School of Journalism.
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 SJ Armstrong
This charming country has some of the best that South America and the Caribbean have to offer. It's underrated -- for now -- so you'll want to book a trip stat.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Experience Denmark's charming Scandi streets without the crowds in this northern city. Eat Danish food, go for a swim, and take in the local history.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Where there are tourists in Europe, there are often pickpockets, and that includes Ireland. Here's what to know before visiting one of Dublin's top attractions.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
This small Argentinian town is home to many trails that explore the awe-inspiring mountain landscape of the pristine Los Glaciares National Park.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Offering some of the best views in France, if not all of Europe, this legendary train ride is an ideal experience for travelers who love scenic adventure.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
There might not be a better way to experience the Nile than by cruise, and explorers will feel like they’ve been sent back in time on these classic sailboats.
By SJ Armstrong
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The best way to experience Argentina in all its stunning glory might be this incredibly epic road that is loaded with opportunities for adventure.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
This gorgeous colonial city in western Colombia has a special culinary scene that mixes Andean, African, and Spanish ingredients and techniques.
By SJ Armstrong
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Canada is filled with stunning national parks but its first -- which boasts a hot spring that has been revered for centuries -- might be one of its best.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
Travelers of all ages will appreciate the vibrant natural beauty of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, as it is packed with stunning beaches and lush jungles.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Where should an epic adventure in Costa Rica begin? For an action-packed trip, head to this region that boasts vast wildlife and a wild river experience.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Rain might be avoidable in England, but with an umbrella (and maybe a pair of galoshes) you can still enjoy the incredible views this area has to offer.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Try natural Chilean wine in this avant-garde architectural gem, then unwind at the on-site wine-themed spa, fine dining restaurant, and luxurious hotel.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Solo traveling -- especially to another continent -- can be daunting, but this Asian city offers up history and a buzzing nightlife in a safe package.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
When it comes to the culinary scene, Japan is one of the top countries in the world for food-based vacations, and this is the city where you should start.
By SJ Armstrong
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Beer enthusiasts visiting Niagara Falls should check out these exciting activities that highlight Canada’s craft brewing scene alongside the natural wonder.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
With its world-renowned cuisine, miles of vineyards, and a rich cultural scene, this region in Spain is considered a hidden coastal gem.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
When it comes to getting the most of a Caribbean vacation, avoid the bigger cities and spend more time in smaller settings like this beautiful town.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
Travel back in time to appreciate the vintage fall vibes and old school beauty of New England by following a lesser traveled path that always delivers.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
Eat, drink, and dance the night away after spending the day lounging on the incredible beaches of this quiet, majestic, and subtle Caribbean destination.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
This old, underrated English city is deemed ‘the birthplace of tourism,’ offering a unique blend of history, culture, and attractions dating back centuries.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
When all you want is to try extraordinary wines and delicious food without dealing with throngs of tourists, this French destination offers a quieter time.
By SJ Armstrong
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Destinations
By SJ Armstrong
Combine history and culture with stunning tropical beauty - not to mention amazing resorts - when spending your vacation in the oldest city in the Philippines.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
Sweden boasts many charming, friendly islands, but if you can only visit one, make sure it's this simple yet delightful spot with beautiful scenery.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
Tourists from near and far have been visiting this historical landmark beach in New England for so long, and it's still a great spot for a family getaway.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
Micronesia is home to many islands boasting unique charm and incredibly preserved culture, and this warm, welcoming destination is a shining example.
By SJ Armstrong
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Travel Guides
By SJ Armstrong
Tired of the crowded tourist scene of coastal Maine? Head to the cheaper alternative farther up north in Canada for scenic hikes and whale-watching.
By SJ Armstrong
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