School
New York University, Temple University
Expertise
Destination Music Festivals, Strange Attractions, European Cities
- Emily has covered a wide range of topics over the last several years, including travel, politics, music, television, and comedy.
- She has traveled to and reported at several music festivals, including Sad Summer Fest, The Governors Ball, and the Newport Folk Festival.
- Emily started writing travel stories for Fifty Grande Magazine, where she became an assistant editor in 2024.
Experience
Originally from the Washington, D.C. area, Emily Frantz is a culture writer and humorist based in New York City. Her work has appeared online and in print in Fifty Grande, Weekly Humorist, and more.
Education
Emily holds an M.A. in cultural reporting and criticism from New York University and a B.A. in media studies and production from Temple 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.
-
From rugged terrain where you won't see another soul to more popular sites near Mount Hood, these are five campsites in the PNW that are hidden gems.
Read More
-
United States
By Emily Frantz
If you'd like to ditch the car for your next getaway, these five resort towns are incredibly walkable, making them great for a relaxing escape.
Read More
-
South Dakota
By Emily Frantz
Getting out into nature is great, but a poorly maintained campsite can dampen anyone's day. These grounds in South Dakota will keep your trip tidy.
Read More
-
Travel Guides
By Emily Frantz
Looking for striking architecture in the U.S.? These five Gothic churches consistently earn praise for their grandeur, detail, and historic appeal.
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Emily Frantz
Playing with pool noodles is a sure-fire way to have fun in the water, but the ubiquitous toy is also useful when it comes to making RV trips more pleasant.
Read More
-
Finding the right camping gear can be challenging, so we've studied the expert research to bring you a list of the best tents that can go on your car roof.
Read More
-
In a recent talk, Rick Steves' protege, Cameron Hewitt, offered less-crowded cities as alternative options to Europe's most popular destinations.
Read More
-
New Hampshire
By Emily Frantz
This New England state is one of the most affordable places in America but recent reviews show it also provides retirees with the best health care system.
Read More
-
While classic teardrop trailers can cost $24,000, this DIY alternative, made with one unexpected budget-friendly Home Depot material, will cost just $2,000.
Read More
-
Arizona is known for its hot temperatures and desert landscapes, so locals and visitors alike visit these popular, cooler destinations to escape the heat.
Read More
-
Looking for a retro-themed, kitschy motel in Texas for your next getaway? Check out these five highly-rated and guest-recommended properties.
Read More
-
Although dining and entertainment matter much on a cruise line, many say that service matters most. Here are five cruises lines with highly-rated crew members.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Emily Frantz
If you're planning to fly overnight soon, look to these five highly-rated airlines for comfort, service, and excellent meals, according to travelers.
Read More
-
Travel Gear
By Emily Frantz
Who says a tent under $100 won't do? Here are five affordable and highly-rated camping tents you can buy from Walmart for a variety of camping uses and styles.
Read More
-
If you're looking to load up on national park souvenirs during your RV adventures, you'll want to make sure the items are small, practical, and affordable.
Read More
-
United States
By Emily Frantz
Here are five affordable U.S. desert towns across states like Utah, California, and Arizona so that you can plan an adventurous and budget-friendly getaway.
Read More
-
Travel Gear
By Emily Frantz
Portable propane heaters are a winter camping essential. Here are five highly-rated ones that are currently available on Walmart for less than $100.
Read More
-
Travel Gear
By Emily Frantz
Some travel buys are helpful, while others are just needless gadgets. Here are five affordable Costco finds to actually make your travels easier and smoother.
Read More
-
Travel Guides
By Emily Frantz
From the Tree of Life to Cannon Beach, here are five overrated and often overcrowded spots in the Pacific Northwest you should avoid and five to visit instead.
Read More
-
Grand Canyon
By Emily Frantz
If you're looking for a clean campsite near the Grand Canyon, consider picking one of these nearby options, with choices for both tents and RVs.
Read More
-
Travel Guides
By Emily Frantz
Whether you're on a weekend trip to the mountains or living in it full-time, these five affordable items from Walmart are essential to have in your RV.
Read More
-
Travel Gear
By Emily Frantz
For a simple camping staple that can easily be shoved into a full car or RV, check out Amazon’s classic chair to sit comfortably during an outdoor getaway.
Read More
-
Travel Guides
By Emily Frantz
Taking a road trip across the U.S. is an exciting adventure, but just in case you need to rest, here are five places you can park overnight for free.
Read More
-
Travel Gear
By Emily Frantz
From cozy two-person setups to roomy tents for the whole crew, these five Amazon finds prove you don’t need big bucks to sleep comfortably outdoors.
Read More
-
Travel Gear
By Emily Frantz
A camping stove can be a necessity while in the great outdoors, and it doesn't have to break the bank. We've selected five well-reviewed options under $100.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Emily Frantz
Big changes are taking off for Southwest Airlines in 2026, and these are four important ones you'll definitely want to know before booking a flight.
Read More
-
Budget Friendly
By Emily Frantz
Costco Travel has helped many a traveler save money on their vacations, and in 2026, the service is making some changes.
Read More