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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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
If you're ready for a real-life Nintendo adventure, visit this go-karting track in southern Vietnam for epic thrills, laughs, and scenic views.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
Nestled in a beautiful region featured in famous Hollywood films, this uninhabited tropical island is a slice of paradise with a strange nickname.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
With produce so fresh it's grown in the backyard and locally sourced ingredients, this bistro in the Adirondacks is a foodie's dream come true.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
This whimsical amusement park in New Hampshire, complete with fairytale characters and thrilling rides, is the perfect outing for the whole family!
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
This celebrated stretch of white sand expanse in St. Lucia is the place to go for thrilling water sports, beachside massages, shopping, and dining.
By Judith Barnes
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Outdoor Adventure
By Judith Barnes
Charleston, South Carolina is full of unique experiences that you can book throughout the city, including this authentic tour that allows you to go crabbing.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
Canada's largest shopping mall has an amazing indoor theme park and indoor waterpark as well as plenty of shops and restaurants for the whole family.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
If you want fresh ingredients or traditional Amish pastries, canned goods, and furniture, head to an under-the-radar market in Pennsylvania.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
After sunning yourself on a gorgeous beach in Maui, swim among tropical fish and vibrant coral at an incredible snorkeling spot that is good for beginners.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
Save money while enjoying the exciting atmosphere of an amusement park at this Pennsylvania gem near Lake Erie. Here's what you should know before visiting.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
If daily life simply isn't spooky enough for you, check out the strange nature reserve in Central Asia that has legends rivaling the stories of Area 51.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
In the pristine tropical setting of Zanzibar, you'll find one of the world's most scenic seafood restaurants that requires a wade through water to reach.
By Judith Barnes
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Outdoor Adventure
By Judith Barnes
If you love outdoor concert venues, head to this scenic amphitheater in Washington that rivals Colorado's Red Rocks, and offers onsite camping and food.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
Traveling to a huge city like Chicago can seem intimidating when you're alone, unless you take advantage of this creative nightlife and dining tour.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
If you are in Kansas and want to try the state's famous barbecue but are short on time, head to this iconic restaurant and get some from the vending machine.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
Portugal is a paradise thanks to coastal retreats like this region of white sandy beaches that hides an abandoned chapel and other unique treasures.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
Heading to Puerto Rico? Consider checking out this beach for smaller crowds and a chance to immerse yourself in unparalleled scenic beauty.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
While there is no shortage of art in New York City, a unique attraction in Lower Manhattan is a theatrical oasis with free concerts and a stunning facade.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
For a fun-filled day trip from Portland, take your family to this lake with plenty of activities for kids, sandy beaches, and gorgeous waterfront views.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
An eye-full of fascinating artifacts and one-of-a-kind artistic treasures are just a glimpse of what awaits you at this Pennsylvania castle and museum.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
For the best snorkeling in Aruba, make sure to head to this underrated beach with tide pools and rocky outcroppings for a chance to see turtles and starfish.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
This secluded beach on Kauai's southern coast has incredible views of the mountains, a secluded shoreline, and is a prime spot for experienced surfers.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
Located in the same city as Prince's Paisley Park is a dinner theater that lets you enjoy incredible plays and concerts along with a delicious meal.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
Antigua boasts over 300 beaches. At one of these, visitors can swim with, pet, and even feed wild stingrays in an experience they will never forget.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
Zorbing, or careening downhill in a giant ball, is a pastime originating in New Zealand. Now, you can participate in the thrilling adventure in Tennessee.
By Judith Barnes
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Travel Guides
By Judith Barnes
Utah has an amazing theme park that spans 50,000 square feet and offers everything from a cascading waterfall to a fluorescent-lit jungle-scape.
By Judith Barnes
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Destinations
By Judith Barnes
For those seeking a tropical family-friendly getaway, a beach on the coast of Providenciales is a must-visit thanks to its shallow waters and nearby activities.
By Judith Barnes
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