Location
Nashville, Tennessee
Expertise
Road trips, National parks, Nashville
- Christy has planned numerous epic road trips for her family of four, including one where they visited five national parks within five days.
- During the pandemic she began sharing about her family's adventures, favorite destinations, and travel tips for Los Angeles-based site L.A. Family Travel.
- Endlessly curious, Christy loves to learn about people and places and to share their stories with the world.
Experience
Christy began her career creating content for entertainment websites before taking time off to stay home with her kids. She gradually returned to writing via her personal blog, which covered sustainable fashion, parenting topics, and Nashville attractions. She has written for publications such as L.A. Family Travel and Curl Magazine, for which she interviewed singer Tori Kelly, actress Ruby Barker, and Instagram travel influencer Quin Gable. Christy freelances as a book editor and authored a short story in the fiction anthology "Tipping Point: Ecofiction for Tomorrow's World".
Education
Christy has a bachelor's degree in music education with a minor in English from Samford University.
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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Texas
By Christy Nicholson 6 days ago
You don't have to leave Austin to find a nature oasis right in your backyard. This spot features hiking, swimming, and hidden waterfalls worth seeking out.
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Tennessee
By Christy Nicholson 10 days ago
There are few better outdoor finds than a peaceful state park that's a short drive from a major urban center. This getaway near Knoxville is one of them.
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North Carolina
By Christy Nicholson 11 days ago
This rural county offers seniors plenty of outdoor adventure and activities to fill their days, while also maintaining a simple and quieter way of life.
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Canada
By Christy Nicholson 12 days ago
Step into a storybook village surrounded by picturesque farmlands and rolling hills in Quebec, where farm-to-table food meets modern art galleries.
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Michigan
By Christy Nicholson 18 days ago
Retirees seeking small-town vibes, sandy lake beaches, and plenty of parks with meandering trails should check out this Michigan county with good reviews.
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Minnesota
By Christy Nicholson 19 days ago
The Land of 10,000 Lakes lives up to its moniker in this gorgeous lakeside city in Minnesota, with an engaging museum and some brilliant festivals.
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North Carolina
By Christy Nicholson 24 days ago
Break from the cityscapes of Greensboro and Charlotte by making a day trip to a cute little park, perfect for riverside walks, fishing, and boating.
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Florida
By Christy Nicholson 24 days ago
Whether you're in Florida, Alabama, or want to explore both states, this riverside wildlife area offers a variety of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy.
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Rhode Island
By Christy Nicholson 1 month ago
This county has a ton of options if you're looking for a quiet, four-seasons spot to retire, from beaches and waterfront dining to historic parks.
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Indiana
By Christy Nicholson 1 month ago
This Hoosier state gem is the perfect place to retire if you love peaceful countryside, a tight-knit community feel, fun events, and free things to do.
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Canada
By Christy Nicholson 1 month ago
Canada is a huge country known for its natural beauty, and this province has mountain lakes, scenic views, and all kinds of activities you can enjoy.
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Alabama
By Christy Nicholson 1 month ago
This tucked-away preserve is home to one of the region's tallest waterfalls, along with all-levels trails that lead to some spectacular spots.
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Missouri
By Christy Nicholson 1 month ago
Once a bustling Ozarks resort, this small Missouri town now offers a quieter getaway with lake views, trout fishing, boating, and local restaurants.
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Tennessee
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
Hiking through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is never a bad idea, but the nature sanctuary is home to drives that are just as scenic.
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Alabama
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
Boasting an affordable cost of living, a neighborly atmosphere, and some truly scenic views, you'll want to live in this Alabama county when you retire.
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Tennessee
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
A lesser-known outdoor destination rewards hikers with peaceful trails, rare wildlife, and a landscape shaped by centuries of natural and human history.
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Water Sports
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
In the 1930s and '40s, a federal agency built a dam to create electric power for this rural area. The result was a bounty for anglers and boaters.
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Texas
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
Texas Hill Country is full of communities that are worth a stop on a drive through the area. This charming town is one spot hunters especially will enjoy.
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North Carolina
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
Expect sidewalks lined with antique shops, inviting boutiques, and delightful restaurants in this welcoming and historic Sandhills small town.
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Indiana
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
A peaceful getaway awaits travelers who want to leave the crowds behind and spend time exploring a quiet, secluded corner of the Midwest, surrounded by nature.
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Kentucky
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
Experience history first-hand in a visit to one of Kentucky's former military forts. Or, simply enjoy exploring the grounds on one of its many hiking trails.
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Kentucky
By Christy Nicholson 2 months ago
Discover three Kentucky mountain communities with scenic overlooks, underground mine tours, old-growth forests, and rich Appalachian history.
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Tennessee
By Christy Nicholson 3 months ago
This state park west of Nashville offers Sunday brunch overlooking a lake, a golf course surrounded by forest, and nature trails and overnight hiking trails.
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Ohio
By Christy Nicholson 3 months ago
Explore this historic village near the Ohio-Indiana border known for its downtown boutiques, annual festivals, county fair, and Christmas lights.
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Texas
By Christy Nicholson 3 months ago
This Texas city north of Dallas is attracting new residents with its outdoor spaces, local bites and breweries, and events that bring the community together.
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Texas
By Christy Nicholson 3 months ago
This tiny town is the perfect place for a horseback ride on a stunning ranch, a hike through a natural area, or a weekend retreat at a luxurious resort.
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Tennessee
By Christy Nicholson 3 months ago
This hike near Smoky Mountains Park offers a crowd-free alternative to more popular treks, but the rugged trail and road to get there might put some off.
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