School
CUNY Graduate School of Journalism
Expertise
Nautical adventure, road trips, Mediterranean lifestyle
- Joe very briefly dressed like Jon Snow while working on a story about set-jetting "Game of Thrones" tourists flooding Dubrovnik.
- His first big-time, fancy glossy magazine article was in Islands over a decade ago, a feature about his love for making traditional Dalmatian olive oil.
- He once underestimated a wave's height, sending a speedboat too quickly into the oncoming crests and nearly launching The New York Times's 52 Places writer into the Adriatic Sea.
Experience
Joe's nearly two-decade career in journalism started as a founding member of Lukewarm Off the Press, the first student newspaper at St. Joseph's Grammar School in Astoria, NY. Joe's first decade as a paid journalist involved covering the ins and outs of life in New York for the local press, culminating in a "News Story of the Year" award from the New York Press Association in 2013. He then shifted gears by moving across the Atlantic Ocean to his ancestral home, a small island off the Croatian coast, and continuing as a freelance journalist. Since then, his work has appeared in a wide range of publications, from Popular Science to The New York Times.
Education
Joe has a master's degree in journalism from the City University of New York.
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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Massachusetts
By Joe Orovic
For sports-first travel, this East Coast destination delivers overlapping seasons, storied venues, and the rare chance to catch multiple pro teams in one stay.
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Despite a string of tragic wildfires, this outdoorsy destination in North America has been named the most desirable region on the globe by travelers.
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North Carolina
By Joe Orovic
If you're looking to explore the Smoky Mountains, this hidden destination is an absolute gem, offering hikes to scenic waterfalls and epic whitewater rafting.
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Though it can get quite chilly in the winter, this Canadian destination is home to two stunning beaches, a thriving downtown, and plenty of cozy charm.
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Some bridges grant you access to gorgeous natural scenery, others tell stories of the past. This Virginia bridge through the lush treetops does both.
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Escape the busy streets of Dallas by heading to a state park offering a sprawling lake for fishing, pristine hiking trails, and great campsites.
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Home to a gigantic statue, miles of pristine hiking trails, and quick access to the water, this state park in Illinois makes for a relaxing escape.
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While the Midwest is known for its excellent hiking paths that wind through pristine forested landscapes, it's also home to some world-class water trails.
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Situated between Navajo and Hopi tribal lands, this stunning canyon offers a mix of colorful hoodoos, remote trails, and breathtaking views.
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Surrounded by natural beauty, this town was saved from disrepair by one man whose Herculean efforts sparked a heartwarming community movement.
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This winding waterway makes the perfect day on the water, whether you're looking for jet ski rentals or a long day of bass fishing, all convenient to the city.
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Sure, barreling down a huge inflatable slide looks like a blast, and it probably is in the moment -- but it turns out it's not all fun and games, after all.
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This riverfront town has everything you could wish for when looking for an Ozarks basecamp, including plenty of places to stay and lots to see and do.
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This hidden beach near Venice is a quiet escape that requires a long walk to access, but the journey is worth it if you're looking for solitudeĀ or shark teeth.
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Hailed as the nation's best road trip, this winding route stops at countless towns and attractions, and it's having a big birthday celebration this year.
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Whether you're seeking an idyllic vacation or place to retire, this Kansas City suburb offers a golf course, seasonal events, and many reasons to stay active.
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Though it might have a creepy name, this state park in Arizona offers family-friendly amenities, scenic hikes, and plenty of chances to get out on the water.
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Tucked between two popular stops in the Florida Keys is another must-visit destination, offering unbelievable sunsets, delicious diners, and unique attractions.
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If you're a fan of '70s singer-songwriters, or if you just enjoy the great outdoors, this peaceful park and garden in Colorado is a must-visit.
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Pennsylvania
By Joe Orovic
The Keystone State is full of worthwhile attractions, but its quieter side isn't just found in nature. This laid-back city blends the bustling with the bucolic.
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North Dakota
By Joe Orovic
Dive into the past with this historic site in North Dakota, where you'll learn about the Hidatsa people, view a reconstructed Earthlodge, and hike along rivers.
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Hidden away in the northern reaches of Michigan, this cozy town offers waterfall hikes, a serene lake, and lively festivals near the Porcupine Mountains.
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This retiree-friendly spot on Long Island's northern coast is a charming getaway with natural oases, community markets, boutiques, and access to NYC.
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This Oklahoma city boasts rich history in the form of an infamous 1930s outlaw, Native American culture, and one of America's greatest novels.
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When you need a break from the city, this small town near the mountains in New York offers delightful attractions and picturesque nature to explore.
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This Upstate New York gem was named after its rich mineral springs and now boasts a charming village and nearby lake perfect for boating and fishing.
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About an hour away from Washington D.C., tucked near the Blue Ridge Mountains, this Virginia town is home to scenic wineries and peaceful hiking trails.
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