School
Swansea University
Expertise
Surfing Destinations, Adventure Travel, Sri Lanka
- Joe lived in Krakow, Poland, for several years, where he wrote extensively about the city's nightlife and culture scenes.
- Surf destinations are his specialty — Joe has surfed in a kaleidoscope of destinations, from Mexico to Morocco, Indonesia to New Zealand.
- He's based in the UK but escapes to the tropics each winter, usually to Sri Lanka or Thailand.
Experience
Joe lived in Krakow, Poland, for several years, where he wrote extensively about the city's nightlife and culture scenes.
Surf destinations are his specialty — Joe has surfed in a kaleidoscope of destinations, from Mexico to Morocco, Indonesia to New Zealand.
He's based in the UK but escapes to the tropics each winter, usually to Sri Lanka or Thailand.
Education
Joseph has a first-class honors degree in English and ancient history from Swansea University. He graduated in 2010 and went into travel writing straight away.
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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California
By Joseph Richard Francis
Some popular hikes in California require long waits for permits before you can hit the trail, but this area in a state park is easier to access without them.
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Utah
By Joseph Richard Francis
Discover Utah's hidden outdoor hub where picturesque waterfall hikes, wildlife viewing, and local wineries create the perfect mountain-meets-lake getaway.
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Oregon
By Joseph Richard Francis
Tucked behind thick coastal forests, this secluded stretch of Oregon shoreline offers dramatic rock stacks, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness.
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Beaches
By Joseph Richard Francis
This hidden Mediterranean gem is a coastal paradise only accessible by foot with crystal-clear waters, pristine white sands, and dramatic scenery.
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California
By Joseph Richard Francis
This hidden gem near San Francisco combines wildflower meadows, dramatic coastal views, and peaceful forest paths in one spectacular location.
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California
By Joseph Richard Francis
Before you load up that cooler for an epic West Coast adventure, learn about the surprising rules that could complicate your cross-border journey.
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Colorado
By Joseph Richard Francis
Just outside of Denver, this Colorado gem offers the perfect blend of hiking trails, unique shopping, and Old West dining in one picturesque destination.
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Beaches
By Joseph Richard Francis
Along California's scenic coastline lies a tropical oasis that rivals Hawaii's best beaches and features palm trees, golden sands, and a beachfront campsite.
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Deals
By Joseph Richard Francis
This popular European automaker offers a complimentary vacation, two-night luxury accommodation, and free U.S. shipping with their vehicle purchase.
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Europe
By Joseph Richard Francis
Discover Europe's most spectacular long-distance trek that winds through alpine peaks, pristine valleys, and historic sites across three nations.
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Colorado
By Joseph Richard Francis
Embark on an adventure along Colorado's best-kept secret route that showcases dramatic red rock canyons, mining history, and untouched landscapes.
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California
By Joseph Richard Francis
From historic mining towns to mountain wilderness, this legendary roadtrip offers travelers an unforgettable blend of Old West history and outdoor thrills.
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Oregon
By Joseph Richard Francis
This breathtaking Oregon shoreline is home to a series of otherworldly rock formations, seal colonies, and some of the state's best tide pooling.
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Colorado
By Joseph Richard Francis
This town town in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado is the perfect alternative to Vail, with plenty of trails, amazing places to shop, and delicious restaurants.
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Europe
By Joseph Richard Francis
This region in Spain is wildly underrated compared to other regions of the country despite being one of the most prolific producers of wine in the world.
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California
By Joseph Richard Francis
The southern stretch of the Sierra Nevada is often overlooked in favor of California's other outdoor experiences, but this lake is a haven for anglers.
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Europe
By Joseph Richard Francis
This underrated region in Italy has all the charm, outdoor adventure, and historic sites while also offering fewer crowds and more affordable amenities.
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Utah
By Joseph Richard Francis
These two lakes and the area that surrounds them in Utah's Wasatch Mountains are an outdoor paradise for hikers and campers alike. Here's what you should know.
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Europe
By Joseph Richard Francis
These European destinations earned top marks for pristine lake and river quality, offering crystal-clear swimming spots from mountains to coastlines.
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Europe
By Joseph Richard Francis
This multi-day hike that starts around Lake Como and cuts through the Alps in Lombardy has a wealth of beautiful scenery and historic villages and castles.
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California
By Joseph Richard Francis
This historic California destination blends perfectly preserved 1800s historical charm with contemporary arts, dining, and outdoor adventures.
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Colorado
By Joseph Richard Francis
There is no shortage of grand, breathtaking hiking opportunities in Colorado, and one of the most epic routes in the state is nearing completion.
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Europe
By Joseph Richard Francis
This legendary coastal retreat where famous musicians once lived in ancient caves now offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and millennia-old ruins.
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Alaska
By Joseph Richard Francis
This remote corner of Alaska offers unparalleled wilderness adventures, from glacier tours to eagle watching, in one of the country's wildest frontiers.
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California
By Joseph Richard Francis
Lake Tahoe is one of the most iconic and beautiful outdoor destinations in the world. But the road trips around its borders are just as breathtaking.
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Washington
By Joseph Richard Francis
Washington has its fair share of spectacular outdoor spaces, but the ancient waters of this small state park give it a special character that can't be missed.
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Europe
By Joseph Richard Francis
Learn Rick Steves’ insider vocabulary and unlock the best of Italy's hidden culinary treasures, from rustic wine bars to family-run spots beloved by locals.
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