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 laminating 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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South Carolina
By Jenna Busch
If you love Congaree National Park in South Carolina, you will also like this overlooked state park that is less than 30 miles away and has plenty of trails.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Not sure where to keep your valuables while sightseeing? This unexpected spot in your hotel room is the best place for your jewelry, devices, and other items.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
Many passengers don't pay attention to flight safety briefings, but more and more airlines are working to get your attention to keep you and others safe.
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If you want to look good on your Europe vacation and follow the sites' dress codes, Rick Steves suggests leaving this one type of shirt at home.
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This Virginia winery is a historic gem, featuring mansion ruins commissioned by Thomas Jefferson and award-winning reds and whites paired with Italian cuisine.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
It can be stressful flying with cats, but it's even worse when an airline's rules about carriers are illogical and their staff is unwelcoming to your pet.
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Air Travel
By Jenna Busch
Airplane seating can trigger frustration, and it can make things more stressful when someone asks you to give up your seat. Here's how to say no the right way.
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Summer temperatures are rising each year across Europe, and staying cool can be harder than it is back home. Here's how Rick Steves says to beat the heat.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
If you want your hotel room to feel more like a home away from home during your vacation, do this one simple thing with your luggage as soon as you arrive.
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Tips and Hacks
By Jenna Busch
Motion sickness can turn your dream trip into a nightmare, but there's a natural solution that eases nausea and makes it easier to enjoy the journey.
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Italians are known for using a variety of hand gestures, but one in particular has very different meanings depending on which way your fingers are pointing.
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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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