School
Digital Marketing Institute
Expertise
European & Latin American destinations, Off-the-beaten-path travel, Independent travel
- Since 2007, Jade has traveled to over 100 countries across all continents and finds Latin America to be one of the most inspiring regions in the world.
- One of her favorite hobbies is exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations such as Paraguay and El Salvador, along with often-overlooked hidden gems like the Beara Peninsula in Ireland and the beaches of the Costa Brava in Spain.
- Jade has lived in Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, as well as onboard three luxury cruise ships, including Seabourn, Silversea, and Viking Cruises.
Experience
Jade's journey as a travel journalist began with a one-way ticket and a fearless spirit. At just 19, she left the Emerald Isle to explore Australia — and she hasn't stopped exploring since. Since 2007, Jade has traveled to every corner of the globe, chasing adventures and ticking off bucket list destinations. Having consistently kept a travel journal throughout each of her trips, she eventually set up her own travel website to share travel stories and advice with aspiring travelers. In 2019, she turned her passion for traveling and writing into a career when she officially stepped into the world of travel journalism. Her storytelling has since expanded globally, with features published across international media outlets and the release of her own Ireland travel guidebook. She is passionate about trying local food wherever she goes and loves exploring places in the most adventurous way — like on a motorbike with her dog. With a strong background in travel journalism and a digital marketing qualification, Jade blends personal experience with professional insight, empowering readers to see the world differently and inspiring them to discover it for themselves.
Education
Jade holds a professional Digital Marketing qualification from the Digital Marketing Institute.
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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Virginia
By Jade Poleon 11 months ago
A historic neighborhood in Virginia's capital city blends centuries of American history with nightlife, art spaces, and a mix of dining and entertainment.
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Family Friendly
By Jade Poleon 11 months ago
The Discovery Trail is a network of museums and educational sites around Cayuga Lake, and it's a great excuse to visit upstate New York's best college city.
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Alaska
By Jade Poleon 11 months ago
Just outside Anchorage lies a peaceful Alaskan retreat where mountain views meet riverside trails, whitewater adventures, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
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West Virginia
By Jade Poleon 11 months ago
Tucked in the West Virginia hills, this hidden small town blends farm-to-table dining with scenic hiking trails, wildlife, and peaceful outdoor escapes.
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Pennsylvania
By Jade Poleon 11 months ago
Pennsylvania isn't just Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. The state's underrated cities pack a lot of charm.
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Iowa
By Jade Poleon 11 months ago
Want to experience a unique, scenic road trip with fewer crowds? Check out this gem of a driving trip that starts in Iowa for an experience unlike any other.
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New York
By Jade Poleon 12 months ago
Nestled in the Catskills of New York is a quaint little town full of Irish history and culture. Here's what the "Emerald Isle" can share with you when visiting.
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North Carolina
By Jade Poleon 12 months ago
North Carolina isn't known for its wine, but this small town is the perfect gateway to picturesque Yadkin Valley, home to award-winning whites and reds.
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Indiana
By Jade Poleon 12 months ago
For a great craft beer scene complete with a cozy downtown and excellent summer and fall festivals, head to this underrated Indiana suburb of Chicago.
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Virginia
By Jade Poleon 12 months ago
Along Virginia's shores of the Chesapeake Bay is a charming and safe town with unforgettable seafood, ample marine fun, and beautiful nature.
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Arizona
By Jade Poleon 12 months ago
From panoramic alpine scenery to foodie approved restaurants, this Arizona city is an underrated gem in the Gila River Valley that's ideal for outdoor lovers.
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West Virginia
By Jade Poleon September 22nd, 2025
A charming spot near Charleston, West Virginia is the place to go if you want to eat the best hot dog of your life and enjoy a small-town festival.
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Canada
By Jade Poleon September 15th, 2025
This small coastal town in Nova Scotia is a foodie paradise with delicious restaurants and festivals that are centered on their locally-caught seafood.
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Iowa
By Jade Poleon 18 hours ago
Whether you're looking to trek through dense forest or chase waterfalls, this Iowa state preserve is a guaranteed peaceful getaway in nature.
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Louisiana
By Jade Poleon September 15th, 2025
Spot gators amidst fall colors on swamp tours, sip beer at Oktoberfest celebrations, or hit the trails to take in the crisp fall air in this slice of Louisiana.
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Michigan
By Jade Poleon September 10th, 2025
A short drive from Detroit is a charming city boasting a lively farm with autumnal delights, as well as a historical village perfect for stepping back in time.
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Ohio
By Jade Poleon September 9th, 2025
Whether you're keen for a day of fall-themed family fun with games and hayrides or an adults-only wine and beer event, this Ohio corn maze ticks all the boxes.
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North Carolina
By Jade Poleon September 9th, 2025
All abroad this scenic North Carolina railway for panoramic vistas, vibrant fall foliage, charming mountain villages, and even a movie location.
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New York
By Jade Poleon 8 days ago
This friendly New York town invites you to explore historic architecture, browse local shops, and enjoy the small-town charm of a thriving college community.
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Missouri
By Jade Poleon September 6th, 2025
To see great fall foliage, you don't have to travel all the way to New England, instead, check out this charming Missouri city that becomes a symphony of color.
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Florida
By Jade Poleon September 6th, 2025
Just outside of Tampa, this hidden gem offers family-friendly fall fun with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and spooky activities perfect for autumn adventures.
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Hiking
By Jade Poleon September 6th, 2025
Enjoy beautiful fall foliage away from the crowds and one of the Adirondacks' best thru-hikes along this 135-mile trail that stretches across New York State.
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Colorado
By Jade Poleon September 3rd, 2025
This Colorado town is a little slice of alpine paradise, with plenty of green spaces for stretching the legs and events like a summer hot air balloon festival.
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California
By Jade Poleon September 1st, 2025
Discover the mountain town in California that offers river adventures, forest hikes, wine tours, and memorabilia dedicated to the legendary Bigfoot.
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Maine
By Jade Poleon August 24th, 2025
Grab your biggest tote bag and get ready to hit the farmers market, as this hidden gem nestled along Maine's eastern coast is ideal for a small town getaway.
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New York
By Jade Poleon August 24th, 2025
Does it get any better than a gorgeous village with a sumptuous swimming hole and a stunning waterfall? Visit this delightful village in New York and decide.
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West Virginia
By Jade Poleon 14 days ago
Explore mountain trails and riverside views at this West Virginia town with an interesting industrial history.
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