School
UPG College of Management
Expertise
Sustainable travel, Family trips, Solo travel
- Kirtana has lived in Mumbai — one of the world's busiest cities — for years and has extensively explored its famous nightlife and food scene.
- She's used to traveling by plane, train, bus, and — on one occasion — even an old, broken-down Jeep, so she knows how to stay comfortable in rough situations.
- Whenever she has the time, she loves to explore new places, try local cuisine, and seek out pet-friendly spots to take her dog.
Experience
Frequently visiting South India to see her large extended family, Kirtana spent years going on long vacations with them, so she knows how to plan and pack for extended stays. She's also ventured into solo travel and has amassed a library of tips on how to stay safe as a woman traveling alone. Her favorite trips include stargazing at a remote forest lodge in Gujarat, a relaxing vacation in a quiet river town in Kerala to decompress, and an adventure- and shopping-filled trip with friends to the Himalayas. In her free time, she enjoys exploring pet-friendly restaurants and activities with her rescued stray dog, Loki.
Education
Kirtana graduated with a bachelor's degree in Journalism in 2019 and currently works in SEO and travel writing.
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.
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Air Travel
By Kirtana Menon
You may think this doing this on an airplane is innocuous, but one person went viral after finding out how much flight attendants actually hate it.
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Deer are generally timid animals but encounters with them can occasionally turn aggressive. Here's what to do if a deer approaches you while you're hiking.
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Travel Guides
By Kirtana Menon
Planning retirement in 2026? These three U.S. states stand out for scenic landscapes, low costs, and plenty of ways to stay active year-round.
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Destinations
By Kirtana Menon
Over a century ago, on Canada’s Vancouver Island, an abandoned limestone quarry was given a second life as one of the world’s most beautiful, exotic gardens.
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Illinois
By Kirtana Menon
This amusement park in Illinois boasts 300 acres filled with thrilling coasters, kid-friendly rides, a water park, and casual food beloved by visitors.
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Nebraska
By Kirtana Menon
A Nebraska region becomes a must-see location for birdwatchers from February to April when it becomes an annual migration stopover for 500,000 sandhill cranes.
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Until last year, there was one island left in the world (besides Antarctica) that you could visit for a mosquito-free vacation.
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North Carolina
By Kirtana Menon
Fort Macon State Park is a must-visit landmark on North Carolina's Bogue Banks, featuring a historic Civil War fortress, coastal trails, and free entry.
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Michigan
By Kirtana Menon
You don't need a saltwater coast to catch a massive wave. The Great Lakes feature surf spots in unexpected places for those who can brave the cold.
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Nebraska
By Kirtana Menon
If you're looking for an acclaimed zoo that takes good care of its animals, head to Omaha, Nebraska, and visit the zoo named the best in the U.S. in 2026.
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Tips and Hacks
By Kirtana Menon
Traffic around a major city can really slow down a relaxing vacation, so we’re breaking down the five busiest highways in the United States.
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If you're in Houston and want to check out a fun suburb, this one has well-maintained parks, fun local restaurants, and affordable places to stay.
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Wisconsin
By Kirtana Menon
A little town in Wisconsin has all the allure of a Swiss getaway, with wine and cheese tastings and other activities that make the Midwest feel like Europe.
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This Texas Hill Country escape near Fredericksburg offers rare giraffe encounters, conservation experiences, and panoramic ranch views in a secluded setting.
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There are plenty of popular ski resorts in Canada, but these five offer shorter lift lines, uncrowded slopes, and a chance to enjoy a laid-back experience.
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Arkansas
By Kirtana Menon
Hidden in the Ozarks is this pleasant Arkansas town with festivals, outdoor fun, and a lot of history. Plus, it provides easy access to other hotspots.
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To eat like a local in the iconic Mediterranean country of Spain, follow Rick Steves’ advice and look for these elements when choosing a restaurant.
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Air Travel
By Kirtana Menon
If you happen to misplace something while going through airport security, this underrated TSA service can help reunite you with your lost belongings.
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Tips and Hacks
By Kirtana Menon
Planning a cross-state road trip or renting a car somewhere you've never driven? Here are the 5 most bizarre traffic laws you could unintentionally violate.
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Delaware
By Kirtana Menon
If quaint towns and beautiful beaches are your idea of a dream retirement, then this East Coast state full of charm and close-knit communities could be for you.
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Air Travel
By Kirtana Menon
Are you a gate camper? If you answered 'yes,' you'll want to know how getting to the airport too early can backfire (and maybe even make you miss your flight).
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A new law just went into effect in Mexico, so if you're taking a cruise to any port there, leave this item on the ship or risk getting a huge fine on shore.
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Colorado has so many picturesque hiking trails, but the five longest boast some of the most beautiful nature you'll ever see, making them well worth the effort.
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Air Travel
By Kirtana Menon
This one style of footwear is worn through the airport by many fliers, but there are several reasons to opt for a different type of shoe instead.
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Orlando, Florida
By Kirtana Menon
Convenient to the major parks, this welcoming gastropub offers a unique atmosphere and Japanese street foods you won't typically find at your local sushi place.
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This Alaskan train ride snaking between Anchorage and Fairbanks treats passengers to a winter wonderland with a great chance for Northern Lights views.
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The West is known for its spectacular mountains, but it's often the canyons that provide incredible and unique perspectives. Here are five to check out.
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