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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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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This popular Rhode Island beach is a hot spot for surfers thanks to its quality waves, while others can appreciate its modern amenities and gorgeous views.
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New York
By Judith Barnes
This beautiful, serene locale has tons of water activities available, and a hiking trail to challenge you — we outline how to get there and what to do.
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Enjoy local flavors at the only sake brewery in Hawaii. Sip the Japanese rice wine while enjoying gorgeous tropical views next to the Mauna Kea volcano.
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From the best water sports to the amazing food available, here's everything you need to know about this serene St. Kitts escape for your next trip.
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New Mexico
By Judith Barnes
Located on iconic Route 66 in New Mexico is a spectacular lake where visitors can enjoy a dip in its crystal clear water, reminiscent of the Caribbean Sea.
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New York
By Judith Barnes
For a quick hike and escape into nature in New York, head to this pleasant trail that ends in a majestic cascading waterfall only an hour from Albany.
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Gaze at manatees and sea turtles or watch bioluminescent creatures beneath a glass-bottomed kayak in a gorgeous Puerto Rico lagoon filled with marine life.
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This hidden gem of a beach requires only a short hike through stunning nature to escape the tourist throngs and find yourself some true Hawaiian tranquility.
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Park directly on the sand at this pristine 7-mile beach, a lesser-known gem that provides the perfect setting for a laid-back family getaway.
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Tips and Hacks
By Judith Barnes
A country steeped in tradition, Japan can be intimidating for first-time tourists. Keep this etiquette rule in mind to show respect when traveling in Japan.
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Elevate your swimming hole experience by visiting this stunning waterfall paradise in Maine. Flanked by colorful rocks and trees, it's a sight to behold.
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Tennessee
By Judith Barnes
Lit up with beautiful lighting and accessible by a glass-fronted elevator, this Tennessee underground waterfall has the beauty of what dreams are made of.
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Take an adventurous drive from Punta Cana to this lesser-known slice of paradise, with miles of pristine white sand, swaying palm trees, and minimal crowds.
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Tennessee
By Judith Barnes
What's more fun than hitting the river for some thrilling whitewater rafting? This Georgia river is sure to provide a wild time with great views and rapids.
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If you're headed to Alabama's underrated stretch of the Gulf Coast, make sure to check out this beach bar that provides plenty of entertainment and fun.
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California
By Judith Barnes
California is a U.S. state with no shortage of natural splendor, but this stunning beach not far from San Francisco offers its own special beauty.
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Enjoy traditional drumming and dancing while catching some incredible waves at a popular surf school at one of West Africa’s most gorgeous beaches.
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Tennessee
By Judith Barnes
There's plenty to bring travelers to Tennessee, but this crystal-clear lake is an attractive retreat best known for its fantastic swimming opportunities.
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New Hampshire
By Judith Barnes
Enjoy the outdoors at one of New Hampshire's many lakes, where you can experience its natural beauty, peaceful small-town charm, and scenic hikes.
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You've never seen the Atlantic Ocean like this before! A unique viewing area in Acadia National Park allows you to get up close and personal with huge waves.
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Visit this off-the-beaten-track destination in Costa Rica for a slice of local life in a tropical paradise. Here's how to get there and what to do.
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Page, Arizona may not be a household name, but visitors to the town will find opportunities to visit a beautiful hidden sand cave and other natural wonders.
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Nestled in Portugal’s Alentejo region, this secluded beach has earned the title of World’s Leading Beach Destination three times, and for good reason.
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California
By Judith Barnes
California is known for playing host to many beautiful nature showcases, but this dazzling urban lagoon inside Oakland is one that shouldn't be overlooked.
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Washington
By Judith Barnes
Tucked away in the back of a neighborhood is where you'll find this hidden gem of a beach, a serene spot to spend a sunny Seattle afternoon.
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If you're looking for a truly tight squeeze in Utah, this slot canyon has just the place to go and all it takes to get there is an easy mile hike.
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