School
St Brendan's College, Queensland University of Technology
Expertise
Europe travel, Coastal destinations, City breaks
- Ben Stower is a Europe-obsessed travel writer who has penned stories for Flight Centre, Kayak, HotelsCombined, Booking.com, and numerous small prints.
- He was one of the editors and contributing authors of the magazine 'Travel Ideas', which won 'Best Overall Edition — Print' at the Content Marketing Institute awards in 2016.
- Some of his favorite travel-related experiences include interviewing a Holland America crew, snowboarding at Falls Creek, pretending to be Gandalf at Hobbiton, and taking a sunset camel ride around Uluru while on assignment for various travel publications.
Experience
Ben Stower began his travel writing career in 2012 as a freelancer living in Southern USA. In 2014, he joined Flight Centre Australia's in-house writing team, where he soon became a valued writer and editor, working on an award-winning publication. Since 2016, Ben has been a freelance writer (with a short stint in a media agency that he'd rather not dwell on) telling stories for global travel brands and publications, like Islands, all while exploring Australia in a van, learning French in Paris, taking rental scooters to their limits in Thailand, acquiring a taste for tea in London, and visiting over 20 countries in Europe.
Education
Ben Stower earned his bachelor's degree in fine arts, specializing in creative and professional writing. This degree gave him the tools to build a career as a travel writer.
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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Between two Texas hubs along the Gulf, you’ll find a natural beach area, perfect for spending the day on its serene shores or camping out away from crowds.
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These 5 amazing London destinations, ranging from homes to venues to studios, are must-visits if you're a fan of David Bowie, according to locals.
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There's a lot to explore in the Motor City, and if you're looking for a few suburbs from which to see the sights, check out these welcoming burgs.
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One of the best things about Chicago is its proximity to quaint towns like this one, home to summer festivals straight out of a "Stranger Things" episode.
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In Georgia, this small town blends historic downtown streets, antique shops, and classic Southern diners with nearby hiking trails, waterfalls, and parks.
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North Carolina
By Ben M Stower
As lovely as Charlotte can be, its overlooked neighbors are just as charming. Head to this small city for a day trip of outdoor adventure and craft drinks.
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In Montana, this dramatic alpine lake formed by an earthquake offers mountain views, fishing spots, and geological history just minutes from Yellowstone.
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According to hikers, these are the five best hiking trails in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for a scenic outdoor escape both inside and just outside the city.
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Here's what to know about the airport and airspace closures across the Middle East that have left thousands of travelers stranded in hubs like Dubai and Doha.
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California
By Ben M Stower
Discover the five hottest cities in California to escape winter cold, ranked using climate data and local insights for warm-weather getaways.
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Featuring items such as the Duke's Oscar, film costumes and hats, and personal memorabilia, this spot is the perfect ode to a Western cultural icon.
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The elegant, massive mansion where David Bowie lived and vacationed in the Caribbean is looking for tenants willing to pay its high prices.
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In Illinois, this peaceful riverside destination offers scenic camping, quiet state park trails, off-road adventure, and relaxing views along the river.
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United States
By Ben M Stower
From Boston to Denver, these U.S. cities stand out for hotel cleanliness, according to recent studies analyzing guest reviews nationwide.
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In Wisconsin, a waterfront district pairs riverfront trails, paddle sports, public art, craft breweries, and lively community events along scenic harbor views.
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Overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, this resort community offers four golf courses, waterfront shopping and dining, and seasonal festivals and events.
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There is a lot to consider when choosing where to retire, and community often gets overlooked. Here's one of the best cities for connecting with people.
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In one of the most popular U.S. states for travel, a local airport is getting a major overhaul, resulting in fewer pre-security shops and eateries.
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Houston, Texas
By Ben M Stower
In Texas, Houston stands out for its variety of well-rated public golf courses that combine strong conditions, accessibility, and favorable weather.
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Washington
By Ben M Stower
With 8,000 lakes within its borders, you'll never be lacking in choice for bodies of water in Washington. This lush, tree-lined lake is an out-of-the-way gem.
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Whether you're after a wedge of Manchego, a custom charcuterie board, or curious about wine and cheese pairings, this Charlotte shop has a range of options.
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Wilmington has plenty of maritime fun to explore, and these boat tours, beloved by reviewers, combine scenic views, educational guides, and relaxing vibes.
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It can be easy to gloss over small Midwestern towns as travel destinations, but communities like these are a reminder why they're worth a visit.
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Orlando, Florida
By Ben M Stower
Discover Orlando's five trendiest boutiques, featuring unique fashion, gifts, and local favorites recommended by bloggers, Reddit users, and locals.
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Myrtle beach's nightlife surprises visitors with dance floors, DJ sets, live music, tasty drinks, and late-night energy just steps from the boardwalk.
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Houston, Texas
By Ben M Stower
In Houston, you’ll find a unique neighborhood with a rich history, delicious restaurants, and a dedication to the arts that bring the local community together.
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A luxury community in Fort Lauderdale has an exclusive, members-only championship golf course alongside canals lined by yachts floating in pristine waters.
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