School
Syracuse University
Expertise
History Behind Destinations, European islands, Hiking
- Jenna has visited five continents and dozens of countries (so far) and is thrilled to share what she's learned.
- She is a history buff and loves to dig into the past of any place she writes about.
- Jenna often gives traveling companions impromptu guided tours because she spends hours researching before she goes anywhere.
Experience
At age 10, Jenna was bitten by the travel bug on a trip to Washington, D.C., with her grandmother. She has been writing professionally for just under two decades now and has contributed chapters to 14 books. She's traveled the world for many years and always makes a beeline for whatever the oldest site in the area is. She's spent so much time on planes and in hotels that she ended up laminated her packing list.
Education
Jenna graduated with an acting B.F.A. from Syracuse 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.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
Some passengers on certain airlines may notice a peculiar seat that is left empty on flights with a "do not occupy" sign stitched onto the cushions. Here's why.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
If your vacation destination also doubles as a popular cruise ship port, you may run into some trouble during your trip. Thankfully, these tips can help.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Before you charge your phone in a rental car, you'll first want to know the surprising risks experts warn about, and how to avoid them on vacation.
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Discover travel expert Rick Steves' go-to strategy for skipping endless museum lines and saving hundreds on admission fees at France's most popular attractions.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
No one wants to deal with a delayed or canceled flight, but in Europe, you may be entitled to certain perks and protections, according to Rick Steves' protege.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
The air in a plane cabin may seem germy, but it might not be as dirty as you think. Still, there are a few essential ways to keep yourself healthy when flying.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
While TSA may ask you to remove your jacket, shoes, and other clothing items, there's one accessory security agents suggest you never take off.
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If you're visiting Europe in the summer, there's one thing you might need to ask your hotel for, and it's not found in any toiletry kit or mini bar.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Per travel expert Rick Steves’ apprentice, do some more research before simply hopping in a long line for a seemingly inconspicuous tourist attraction.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
To get to your destination as quickly as possible, try flying out of this Western airport that features the shortest wait times for TSA security in the U.S.
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No need to arrive hours early here, this poorly ranked Canadian airport only has one restaurant, no lounge, and is only served by a handful of airlines.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
If you're the type who usually needs a vacation from your vacation, try embracing the slow travel trend and organize your itinerary around relaxing activities.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
If losing your luggage is one of your biggest travel fears, use this simple tip from Samantha Brown to always keep track of your personal belongings.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
The TSA has recently released a new ban on these heated hair tools for checked bags. Be sure to follow this as you're packing for your next trip.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
If you're concerned about potential health risks due to exposure to airports' security scanners, the EPA and CDC's statements might help you feel better.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Rick Steves reveals one easy, essential step vegetarians and vegans can take before heading to Europe to ensure a smoother, more enjoyable journey.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
When there are limited lavatories on a plane for so many travelers, it's important to time your bathroom trips carefully. Here's when to do your business.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
You may be tempted to squat over a toilet while traveling in an unknown environment, but this is actually worse for your health. Here's what to do instead.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
This convenient hotel room appliance harbors a dirty secret that's prompting guests to be a little more careful about the beverages they consume.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Losing sleep might just seem like part of the travel experience, but lacking rest can put your health at risk. Use these tips to make sleep a priority.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Before heading to Europe, Rick Steves urges travelers to double-check one critical passport detail that could prevent you from boarding your flight.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
When considering whether you need travel insurance for your vacation, expert Rick Steves recommends opting for this coverage that’ll give you peace of mind.
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If you want to see prehistoric fossils and have outdoor adventures on land and in the water, visit this national park that sits in Utah and Colorado.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Travel expert Samantha Brown shares a simple yet delightful trick to create a taste of Italy anytime you stop at a gas station on your road trip.
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For many, Europe is a dream destination. But instead of worrying about fitting every sight and sound into a single itinerary, try this Rick Steves travel hack.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
If the contents of your luggage are always a disorganized mess on vacation, take Samantha Brown's advice and invest in this one simple accessory.
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Although taking a bath in your hotel after a long day of traveling or sightseeing may sound appealing, you may want to think twice before doing so.
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