Expertise
Urban Travel, Solo Female Travel, Asia
- Judith joined Islands in 2024 as a travel news writer.
- She hails from NYC but has been living abroad for 10 years. She is an endlessly curious traveler who has been to 20 countries so far.
- She is a coffee shop connoisseur and urbanite who gets her kicks from gazing out cafe windows while writing and sampling the culture of different cities around the world.
Experience
Judith began her writing journey as a travel blogger in 2011. She has since become a published article writer, both digital and in print, a content writer, and writes short stories in her free time. She has interviewed the Who's Who of expat communities, written profiles of rising and established artists, and written opinion pieces. She has contributed articles to Urbanist Magazine, Chao Hanoi, and The Tay Ho Times.
Education
Judith holds a bachelor's degree in geography with a concentration in cultural studies and a minor in Spanish. She is TEFL certified and completed an independent studies certificate in dance from The Alvin Ailey School of Dance.
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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Pennsylvania
By Judith Barnes
This tranquil Great Lakes escape boasts pebbled, sandy shores for sunning and swimming. After a beach day, order a drink at the nearby vineyards and breweries.
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Spanning 3 acres of non-stop attractions, this year-round water park boasts 16 thrilling slides, wave pools, a beach club, adults-only jacuzzis, and tons more.
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Hosts aren't the only ones making mistakes at Airbnbs. Sometimes, guests make mistakes, too, and this is one blunder you better avoid for a pleasant stay.
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Experience a Wyoming escape where wild mustangs roam free, wide-open skies stretch endlessly, and overnight stays bring you closer to untamed beauty.
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Romantic Getaways
By Judith Barnes
Whether you're headed to Mexico or Fiji to watch your loved ones tie the knot, here's what to know (and avoid) when it comes to gifts at a destination wedding.
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Washington
By Judith Barnes
This charming farm near Seattle has fun for everyone — pick dahlias in summer or pumpkins in fall, followed by a glass of mead in the rustic tasting room.
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Michigan
By Judith Barnes
On the shores of Lake Michigan, a golden stretch of sand with clear water and tall dunes offers families a peaceful spot to swim, paddle, and relax.
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Tennessee
By Judith Barnes
Escape the city heat at a hidden Tennessee lakeside spot where sandy shores, calm waters, and shaded campsites make for a perfect retreat for the whole family.
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Tips and Hacks
By Judith Barnes
Learn the minimalist packing secret that travel pro Andrew McCarthy swears by to avoid carrying heavy bags and paying expensive airline fees on any trip.
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South Carolina
By Judith Barnes
Not far from Myrtle Beach hides a tranquil inlet where serene waters await. Avoid the crowds and snorkel, fish, or say hello to dolphins in this quiet spot.
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Besides its famous red rocks and deep canyons, Arizona has some amazing mountain ranges — like this one, which towers over the desert just outside Phoenix.
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If there’s a tsunami warning while your cruise is docked at port, you’ll want to hop aboard as quickly as possible since it’s one of the best places to be.
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Tips and Hacks
By Judith Barnes
Before you hit book, learn how to spot hidden red flags in Airbnb reviews that can signal a stay may not offer the personal touch you expect.
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New Hampshire
By Judith Barnes
The state park is tucked in a quiet corner of the state and features unique, flower-filled sights and mountain views from its easy and peaceful walking paths.
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Outdoor Adventure
By Judith Barnes
Before your next swim in a lake or river, find out what could be causing that mysterious post-dip itch, and how to keep it from ruining your trip.
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Board this coffin-shaped gondola and fly through howling winds up a famous Italian mountain, where a delicious meal awaits you at your ride's end.
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North Carolina
By Judith Barnes
The Smoky Mountains contain endless beauty, but this spot is definitely worth a visit and is home to a scenic swimming hole with clear water and forest views.
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New York
By Judith Barnes
For the perfect summer spot less than three hours from New York City, head to this ethereal blue swimming hole surrounded by trails in the Peekamoose Mountains.
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Washington
By Judith Barnes
Tucked away in the Pacific Northwest, you can find a peaceful little slice of shoreline that's perfect for outdoor activities or just relaxing by the waves.
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Tips and Hacks
By Judith Barnes
Safety experts share the must-have medical supplies that travelers should have during a trip, customized for your destination and who you're traveling with.
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This Arizona desert site is a great place to bask in beautiful nature and get a glimpse into the area's history.
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North Carolina
By Judith Barnes
This gorgeous waterfall in North Carolina offers visitors a picturesque visit into nature.
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California
By Judith Barnes
For the perfect summer escape, located between L.A. and Bakersfield, head to this scenic reservoir for fun activities like tubing, wakeboarding, and swimming.
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Hidden in the Adirondack Mountains is a little-known swimming hole that features gentle waterfalls, but the trail to get there is a bit difficult.
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This Scottish pool is a natural and relaxing dip -- come visit to understand why this is a Gaelic staple!
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Thrilling adventures await within Arizona’s rocky terrain and iconic desert landscapes. Mountain bikers can cruise through an epic trail system near Phoenix.
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Arizona’s Lake Powell is an incredible oasis in a red rock landscape. After a short hike, you’ll find yourself in the perfect swimming spot for waterside fun.
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