School
Texas A&M University, University of Utah
Expertise
Off-the-beaten-path destinations, Travel safety and security, Impactful travel
- Dave has worked, volunteered, and studied in six countries on four continents.
- He was first bitten by the travel bug while studying abroad in Australia, an experience that opened up his world and ignited his passion for travel.
- A lover of languages, Dave self-published his first book, "Secrets of a Polyglot: How to Transform Your Life through Learning Foreign Languages," to help people worldwide improve their interpersonal relationships and learn any foreign language.
Experience
Dave professionally taught English abroad for eight years, exploring the world during his school vacations by leveraging both complex travel itineraries and points and miles. During that period, he served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Indonesia, where he lived like a local for two years in rural West Java. After earning his master's degree, he founded GuideMie LLC to enable sustainable development through tourism by crafting foreign language courses, guidebooks, and life-changing travel itineraries to help foreign travelers thrive in a new environment. He has written for Static Media since 2024, crafting pieces on underrated destinations, travel safety and security, and Asia.
Education
Dave holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Utah with an emphasis on Japan and Japanese, as well as a Master of International Affairs from the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M 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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Washington
By Dave Bowling
For an underrated but gorgeous destination in Washington, head to this rural town with plenty of fishing, two scenic state parks, and a gorgeous waterfall.
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This charming hidden gem an hour outside of Boise, Idaho, offers an affordable place to stay, eat, and explore, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
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This underrated city in Idaho offers quick water access for boating and steelhead fishing, not to mention a nearby national forest for hunting and hiking.
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Washington
By Dave Bowling
Washington enjoyed a brief moment in the sunshine during the Gold Rush, but this abandoned mining town is a testament to how quickly that changed.
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This charming city near Boise is known for its top-notch wineries and breweries. It's also bursting with cozy cafes and restaurants and lots of outdoor fun.
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Pixar fans may want to stop by this up-and-coming Utah city for a selfie, and while they're there, take an opportunity to go on a scenic hike.
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Utah is becoming more and more popular as a place to visit and live, and this suburb is the perfect spot to explore with breathtaking views and canyon access.
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There is something truly jaw-dropping about a sunrise view of the spectacular Grand Tetons, and these gorgeous lakes in Wyoming are the perfect vantage point.
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Washington
By Dave Bowling
This park is home to some fantastic hiking with panoramic views, interesting geology, and water fun with fishing, boating, and paddling all within easy reach.
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In the western part of the Big Sky country is a rustic community that offers stunning mountain views and relaxing hot springs that you won't want to miss.
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This perfect Ohioan trail for bikers and pedestrians connects a variety of areas with shops, eateries, wildlife viewing spots, and Ohio's national park.
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Oregon is packed with gorgeous places to pitch a tent under the stars, but there is something special about this riverfront park in the Beaver State.
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For a slow-paced vacation, fish & camp at this undeveloped Texas beach, where you can also bird watch or even observe endangered baby turtles taking to the sea.
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Within the foothills of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, you’ll find a charming city with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities and a historic amusement park.
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Washington
By Dave Bowling
Step back in time at a forgotten Washington ghost town that rose from gold rush dreams and is now one of the state’s most fascinating free attractions.
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Step into the Canadian prairies where whispers of crime, historic tunnels, and legends linger beneath the charm of this seemingly charming yet notorious city.
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The road to Yellowstone is packed with spectacular sights and fascinating attractions, including mysterious ghost towns and a bucket-list-worthy state park.
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There are plenty of adrenaline-pumping adventures to be found in the Gem State, and the thrills and trails of one spectacular spot deserve special attention.
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Washington
By Dave Bowling
This tiny town in coastal Washington is perched near the Olympic National Forest and highlights the remnants of its once booming logging industry.
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This unique escape in Idaho offers guests a one-of-a-kind accommodation option highlighting natural scenery, hiking trails, and interesting history.
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Families and newcomers alike are drawn to this city for its affordable living, vibrant community events, scenic trails, and Utah's strong military heritage.
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Whether it's fishing on the Snake River or playing tug-of-war over a vat of potatoes, this Idaho city has everything from outdoor adventure to spud festivals.
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Take a trip into the distant past to explore the oldest city in the Gem State, and spend some quality time adventuring in Idaho's magical nature as you do.
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This Boise neighborhood combines small-town feel with walkability and charm, highlighting the city's ease of access to mountain trails and river swims.
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The adventures continue in the Gem State with one of Idaho's most exciting cities, a charming spot for everything from hiking to fishing and all the rest.
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Washington
By Dave Bowling
This hidden town in Washington is perfect for a northeastern vacation with scenic, relaxing hikes and the chance to find your very own fossil.
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History and hiking collide at this gorgeous state park in the Gem State, the perfect place to get cozy with Idaho's fascinating past and spectacular scenery.
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