Location
Santiago De Compostela, Spain
School
University of Santo Tomas
Expertise
Solo female travel, Cultural exploration, Slow travel
- Jianne believes the world is made up of stories, and this perspective shapes her approach to both writing and connecting with people.
- Her first taste of a broader world came through international writing forums, where she has been honing her editorial instincts since she was 11 years old.
- She thrives on spontaneous exploration, often choosing to wander without a fixed itinerary.
Experience
Jianne grew up moving between the Philippines and Taiwan, a childhood that gave her an early awareness of how wide the world really is. At 22, she moved to Spain and began solo traveling across Europe with nothing but her purple backpack, often meeting up with strangers-turned-friends to better understand how people see their own corners of the world. She has worked both ends of the travel spectrum, from a luxury travel company to a short stint in a hostel, and remains convinced that — no matter the budget — the best trips are the ones shaped to the traveler. She's especially drawn to diaspora food scenes, curious about the stories behind how people build community far from home.
Education
Jianne holds a bachelor's degree in mass communications from the University of Santo Tomas.
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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Making bouquets is an art, and in Chicago, you'll find many florists creating stunning arrangements. Here are the five most charming flower shops in the city.
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Nothing beats the mountain views in Colorado. Unless, of course, it's enjoying a cup of fresh-roasted coffee at a cozy cafe while taking in those views.
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If you're exploring South Carolina looking for the perfect mix between small town charm and medium city vibrancy, this locale is walkable and fun.
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On the highway to Sedona, one Arizona rest area surprises travelers with stunning views, glowing sunsets, and sparkling bathrooms worth the praise.
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The Smart Museum of Art in Chicago is hosting a special exhibition through February 2026 of found objects and African art from one of America's leading artists.
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Florida is already known for its white-sand beaches, however, now festivals and restaurants serving the state's "Boutique Shellfish" are having a moment.
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Georgia has many popular destinations such as Atlanta and Savannah. But not far from the capital, you can find a beautiful park with outdoor activities.
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Michigan is home to many underrated destinations, but this elegant estate is a veritable castle in the woods which still host fun and elegant parties today.
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Massachusetts
By Jianne Uy
Enjoy a classic fall stroll within a cute Boston neighborhood, complete with pumpkin-lined windowsills and leaf-strewn cobblestone streets.
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A quick train ride from downtown Chicago brings you to a suburb with thriving dining, sprawling green space, and a winery earning global acclaim.
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Massachusetts
By Jianne Uy
If we told you there's a formerly wealthy community that's currently associated with occult legends and inspirational rocks, would you believe us?
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Massachusetts
By Jianne Uy
Step beyond the gates of a historic arboretum in Boston and discover rolling hills, rare trees, and some of New England's most stunning fall colors.
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This nine-block neighborhood in Austin, Texas, was founded in 1871 and has since become a hub of world-class dining, excellent shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
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This Bavarian mountain village in Colorado is entirely pedestrian-centric featuring heated cobblestone streets lined with endless restaurants and quirky shops.
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The central New York town makes the perfect getaway, with plenty to see and do in its welcoming downtown area and comfortable, historic inns to lay your head.
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Pennsylvania
By Jianne Uy
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A once-bustling town on the Kansas-Oklahoma border now sits abandoned, evacuated due to extreme contamination and left as one of America's eeriest ghost towns.
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Discover NASA's iconic space center just outside of Houston, Texas, where visitors can see artifacts, spaceships, and peek into actual science labs.
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With easy access to New York City, plenty of green space, and undeniable Latin charm, this New Jersey city is one of the best places to live in America.
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Cruises can be both exciting and relaxing, but it's very easy to get homesick on a cruise ship -- especially if you've left furry companions at home.
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The oldest restaurant in Michigan has a traditional aesthetic, classic comfort foods that haven't changed in generations, and an iconic mascot.
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A sprawling Spanish food hall in New York pairs culinary genius with affordability, serving classics, small plates, and vibrant social energy.
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This little-known California destination enchants with smooth granite, plunge pools, and waterfalls in a wild forest setting untouched by modern development.
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Though you might not expect to see one, within New York's Central Park is an often-overlooked Victorian castle that offers visitors spectacular views.
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