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
This college town in Michigan isn't just popular with students -- there's plenty to see here for people of all ages, making it a great spot for the family.
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Chicago, Illinois
By Erika W. Smith
Chicago isn't just a major U.S. city - it's also a hub for Italian-American cuisine. These are Chicago's five best Italian restaurants, based on reviews.
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Arizona
By Erika W. Smith
It would take ages to explore every stunning corner and crevice in the Grand Canyon, but one hidden ethereal waterfall is a can't-miss experience.
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Michigan
By Erika W. Smith
Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the country, and if you want to see its stunning marble Art Deco lighthouse, head here.
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Michigan
By Erika W. Smith
Lansing is one of the central hubs of Michigan, and one suburbs of the city actually outdoes it when it comes to vital fun stuff like shopping and hiking.
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United States
By Erika W. Smith
If you're a winter aficionado, you might want to seek out one of these five states that are known for their magnificent yet dangerous winter storms.
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Outdoor Adventure
By Erika W. Smith
Before hitting the slopes for a day of skiing or snowboarding, make sure you understand what the term "bluebird day" really means at the resort.
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New York
By Erika W. Smith
From the boardwalk of Coney Island to a luxe Manhattan diner, customers say these are the 5 absolute best spots to grab a hot dog in New York City.
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Discover this ultimate list of highly rated restaurants at JFK Airport, whether you're looking to dig into freshly-made biscuits or tacos on your travels.
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Tips and Hacks
By Erika W. Smith
Before a skiing or snowboarding adventure, make sure you take a packet of Kool-Aid with you. Don’t think about it too hard, just trust this expert advice.
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Denver, Colorado
By Erika W. Smith
If you love mountain locations with great food, make sure to visit this Colorado city with award-winning restaurants and the best tippers in the U.S.
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Air Travel
By Erika W. Smith
Christmas crackers may look harmless, but TSA bans them for this interesting reason. Learn why these festive items aren’t allowed on flights.
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Vermont
By Erika W. Smith
The "snowmobiling capital of Vermont" is tucked away in a small village that beckons outdoor adventurers all winter long to visit this cozy spot.
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Virginia
By Erika W. Smith
The safest city in Virginia for 2025 is a cute college town that boasts small-town charm and a history of continued security within the Shenandoah Valley.
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California
By Erika W. Smith
Shopaholics will love exploring this popular street near Rodeo Drive that's an ode to fashion designers and highlights a statue created by a famous sculptor.
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Travel Gear
By Erika W. Smith
This iconic suitcase brand, made from vulcanised fibreboard, is the perfect choice for trendy travelers who are looking for both durability and style.
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Pennsylvania
By Erika W. Smith
Whether you're seeking an action-packed day on an ATV or a relaxing weekend of birdwatching, this Pennsylvania destination is worth checking out.
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A new survey has ranked the safest states in America for solo travel, with a Northeast destination taking the top spot due to safe roads and low crime rates.
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California
By Erika W. Smith
Within California’s Sonoma County, an under-the-radar town is experiencing more visitors than normal thanks to a Google Maps anomaly that’s boosting tourism.
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Air Travel
By Erika W. Smith
If your boarding pass doesn't have an assigned seat and instead shows these three letters, there's a strong possibility your flight was overbooked.
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Las Vegas, Nevada
By Erika W. Smith
This Las Vegas hotel and casino has already won dozens of awards but now it was recently named one of the world's 'Most Instagrammable Hotels'
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Long lines are expected while traveling during winter. The world's most crowded holiday attraction is on the East Coast, drawing millions of visitors annually.
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Michigan
By Erika W. Smith
This park in Michigan is one of metro Detroit's go-to destinations for fun. With plenty to see and do, this family friendly spot is beloved for a reason.
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Michigan
By Erika W. Smith
This Michigan town on Lake Huron's Thumb Coast offers a convenient getaway from Detroit, with its lovely harbor, quaint shops, and lake-facing restaurants.
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Illinois
By Erika W. Smith
This Chicago suburb offers easy access to the city combined with many of the perks of small-town living, like large lots, lovely parks, and community events.
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There's plenty to see on an Italian vacation, but don't forget to stop and relax and treat yourself to some top-tier people-watching over an espresso.
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Wisconsin
By Erika W. Smith
With a population of around 8,000 people, this quaint Wisconsin village with gorgeous nature is a half-hour drive from Milwaukee and an hour drive from Chicago.
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