School
New York University, University of California-Los Angeles Extension
Expertise
Culinary Travel, Cultural Treks, Australian Travel
- Dana lived in Australia from 2019 to 2024, splitting her time between Melbourne, Canberra, and the South Coast of New South Wales.
- Having completed the Camino de Santiago in Spain three times, as well as Japan's Kumano Kodo, she is a certified UNESCO Dual Pilgrim.
- She makes a mean Negroni thanks to 10+ years in the craft cocktail industry. But when she's on the road, you'll find her sipping Chateauneuf-du-Pape in Rhone, sampling sake varietals in Kyoto, and touring 18th-century whiskey distilleries in the Scottish Highlands.
Experience
Dana caught the bug for solo travel in 2018 while completing her first pilgrimage in Spain. Already well-versed in U.S. and North American travel, and much of Western Europe, thanks to family hiking and road trips growing up, she's since expanded her horizons to Oceania, Asia, and North Africa. She previously served as the lead tours and cruises editor at Luxury Escapes and as a contributing writer and editor for the online magazine, Dream.
Education
Dana graduated from New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study with university honors and a B.A. in pop iconography. She later received a graduate certificate in creative nonfiction writing from UCLA Extension, with a special interest in editing.
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.
-
Although California is filled with many beaches, this one in the state's southern region is a lesser-visited gem with canyon hikes and spectacular sea cliffs.
Read More
-
If you usually ask for coffee once the plane's beverage cart arrives at your seat, you may want to rethink your choice and go for a safer drink instead.
Read More
-
If you're looking to enjoy soaring redwoods without massive crowds, this hidden state park offers plenty of seclusion and a pristine campground.
Read More
-
If you accidentally damage or break a piece of art at a museum, here's what you should expect to happen and what you can do to not make the situation any worse.
Read More
-
It may be tempting to verbally interact with the animals in Yellowstone National Park, but there's a very good reason why howling is not allowed.
Read More
-
This state park in Sonoma County offers plenty of hiking trails, but it's the vibrant fields of wildflowers that are the real reason to visit.
Read More
-
Get your hiking boots on if you're planning on visiting this West Coast city, which was dubbed one of the best urban hiking destinations in the country.
Read More
-
After a series of closures years ago, Yosemite is reopening all of its campgrounds to deliver the best visitor experience, but campsites are booking fast.
Read More
-
An innovation in technology and sustainable design led to the creation of the world's largest 3D-printed tower, which stands in the center of a Swiss village.
Read More
-
Torn between these two tropical paradises for your solo adventure? One destination clearly outshines the other for independent female travelers.
Read More
-
This lesser-known SoCal city stands out for its quaint atmosphere, stunning hidden murals, flawless weather, and celebration of all things citrus.
Read More
-
Enjoy Glacier National Park’s stunning alpine views without crowds along an under-the-radar route that was once a historic, helpful mountain passage.
Read More
-
This Caribbean island country has similar tropical vibes, cultural energy, and cosmopolitan nightlife that rival Miami's, but without the crowds or price tag.
Read More
-
With the sale of public lands on the table, a lot is at stake, including the PCT which is under threat of never being the same again and even becoming undoable.
Read More
-
Scottish whisky may be legendary, but in one 2024 tasting event, one Asian country beat Scotland with its assortment of world-class whiskies.
Read More
-
Vast stretches of greenery butt up against soft tan sands in this coastal destination known for its brilliant hiking trails that lead to the ocean.
Read More
-
Explore a truly otherworldly, volcanic landscape and pristine hidden beaches without crowds at an underrated natural park along Spain’s Southern Coast.
Read More
-
New Zealand is the last place you'd expect to see California redwoods, but this forest boasts leafy giants along with an epic suspended walkway and bike trails.
Read More
-
Trek to a pristine, wide, sandy beach on Oregon’s southern coast, which is also an under-the-radar starting point for iconic hikes in the region.
Read More
-
This long, sandy beach in California is part of one of the prettiest national seashores in the United States and is very close to San Francisco. Find out more.
Read More
-
A perfectly timed, one-way road trip might just be the secret to a budget-friendly vacation, thanks to this car rental company's special offer.
Read More
-
Escape the city and immerse yourself in farm life at this California property, boasting wellness activities, eateries, a brewery, a market, and more.
Read More
-
Dig your toes in golden sands at this bi-continental Asian and European capital city with world-class beaches plus culture, food, and history galore .
Read More
-
Hidden between towering peaks and surprisingly uncrowded, this wolf-shaped lake with crystal-clear waters rivals some of Canada’s most famous destinations.
Read More
-
To experience Amsterdam like a local, head to this neighborhood bursting with one-of-a-kind shops, cozy and quirky eateries, and a bit of nightlife.
Read More
-
Tired of paying big bucks to fly internationally? A popular budget airline is expanding operations after receiving FAA approval for international travel.
Read More
-
This vibrant California city claims the craft beer crown with 150+ local breweries, signature IPAs, and neighborhoods perfect for brewery hopping.
Read More