School
University of Florida
Expertise
Ski Destinations, Outdoor Adventures, RV Camping
- Heather travels the world writing stories for major media outlets such as CNN, ABC, Forbes, and Southern Living.
- She traveled solo to Tanzania to produce profile videos of orphaned children receiving free educations.
- Now an empty nester, she enjoys any opportunity to combine her passion for travel and the outdoors with her love of storytelling.
Experience
Hired right out of college as a news writer for CNN, Heather Whitley ascended quickly to the role of producer. Over the years, she has expanded her writing portfolio to include entertainment, sports, and travel content. In addition to her work as a writer and producer, Heather has also directed live events with VIP celebrities, developed the first citizen journalism mobile platform for CNN's iReport brand, and served as a program developer, where she led brainstorms and brand-building workshops with senior-level media executives. Her high-profile interviews include Dikembe Mutombo, Olympic Gold Medalist Caroline Marks, and the Unabomber sketch artist. Heather earned a Peabody and two National Headliner Awards while at CNN and was recognized as one of the Women in Cable Television's Rising Leaders.
Education
Heather graduated with honors from The University of Florida and was presented the 1997 Ruth & Rae O. Weimer Award as the Outstanding Graduate of The College of Journalism and Communication.
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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Tips and Hacks
By Heather L. Whitley
When you’re a student, budget-friendly tips and hacks can make travel more affordable, including this program offering plenty of discounts worldwide.
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Hawaii
By Heather L. Whitley
A little slice of paradise in Maui was ravaged by wildfires, but many of its beloved restaurants have reopened and are offering delectable Hawaiian cuisine.
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Georgia
By Heather L. Whitley
With its lower cost of living, close-knit community, and access to one of the most amazing places in the American South, your golden years are best spent here.
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Georgia
By Heather L. Whitley
With a colorful history from moonshine to NASCAR, this Georgia city boasts scenic hiking trails, cascading falls, and charming lodge accommodations.
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Florida
By Heather L. Whitley
If you're looking for a Florida vacation off the beaten path, visit this Panhandle town with a unique annual festival and beautiful river views.
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Cruises
By Heather L. Whitley
Whether you're a fan of cruises or just reading up before a first trip, these are the things you probably didn't know your cruise cabin steward can do for you.
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Oregon
By Heather L. Whitley
The West Coast's wine hot spots aren't limited to California; Oregon has some incredible vineyards, too. This resort offers the perfect getaway for wine lovers.
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Canada
By Heather L. Whitley
One of the downsides of hiking can be not having a comfortable place to rest, but this trail offers up cozy cabins so you can take a break.
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Florida
By Heather L. Whitley
If you want to go camping without the hassle of, well, camping, then glamping is for you. This experience lets you enjoy the outdoors without getting dirty.
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Travel Guides
By Heather L. Whitley
The kimono is a profound historical and cultural treasure of Japan. But can foreign tourists wear them too, as locals do? Here’s everything you need to know.
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Hiking
By Heather L. Whitley
With over 2,000 miles complete, this planned near-4,000-mile-long project invites cyclists and hikers to traverse America from the West to the East Coast.
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Tennessee
By Heather L. Whitley
Only 30 minutes from Nashville, you'll find a cute Tennessee city that's packed with family-friendly activities, including museums, fairs, farms, and trails.
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