Location
Brooklyn, New York
Expertise
Solo travel, Arts and culture, European destinations
- Erika grew up in Michigan, attended college in Boston, and moved to New York at age 21, so she's a pro at suggesting Midwestern and Northeastern travel destinations.
- As a travel writer, she has visited countries including Egypt, Kenya, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Jamaica, and St. Lucia.
- As an experienced journalist, she has had her work recognized by the National Headliner Awards and New York Press Club Awards.
Experience
Erika is an experienced freelance writer, covering a variety of topics including travel, wellness, and sex & relationships. Her freelance bylines include Vogue, PopSugar, and VeryWellMind, and she previously held staff positions at Cosmopolitan, Refinery29, and BUST magazine. In 2021, she published her first book, Astrosex.
Education
Erika double majored in magazine journalism and English literature at Boston University. She spent a semester studying abroad in London.
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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Michigan
By Erika W. Smith
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is an overlooked dreamscape of shoreline, forests, and quietude. And it doesn't get more peaceful than this quaint village.
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Connecticut
By Erika W. Smith
You can't beat a day-trip to a classic New England charmer that features everything from stunning mountain views to a bustling college campus.
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Connecticut
By Erika W. Smith
School doesn't have to be in session for you to explore the best of America's college towns. This gem in rural Connecticut is ideal for art lovers and foodies.
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Michigan
By Erika W. Smith
Swim, surf, and sunbathe on this stunning Michigan beach where photos can't do it justice. Plus, it's the gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
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On the lakeshore between Geneva and Bern is a French town that is filled with medieval history and feels as though it came out of a fantasy story.
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Michigan
By Erika W. Smith
On a peninsula within a peninsula in Michigan is a hidden gem where some say a natural phenomenon creates healing powers.
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Connecticut
By Erika W. Smith
Known for its intriguing architecture, peaceful parks, and the quintessential New England beauty that surrounds it, this small town is a stop worth making.
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Tips and Hacks
By Erika W. Smith
Many travelers don't think twice about putting cellphones directly into the bin at airport security, but one video says that's exactly what you shouldn't do.
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New York
By Erika W. Smith
Most major attractions in NYC tend to be packed to the gills, but this jam-packed spot has earned the unofficial title of "America's worst tourist trap."
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Massachusetts
By Erika W. Smith
Whether you're planning a peaceful escape in nature or a charming small-town getaway, this historic and picturesque city is one you won't want to miss.
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New Jersey
By Erika W. Smith
Home to an iconic Ivy League university, this walkable and charming New Jersey college town offers plenty of history, nature, art, and culture for fun stay.
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This charming Ohio city is home to some amazing breweries, family-friendly attractions, and plenty of opportunities to get out into beautiful nature.
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