Location
Glasgow, Scotland
School
University of Aberdeen, University of Strathclyde
Expertise
Traveling Europe, Outdoor adventures, Pet-friendly travel
- Lois has worked in many fields of journalism, including SEO, fitness features, and local news.
- Her favorite travel experiences include running a marathon in Reykjavik, surfing in Palm Springs, and traveling across Europe with two dogs.
- Lois's work has appeared in many global publications, covering stories from Scottish islands to Californian hot spots.
Experience
Lois discovered travel journalism as a student many years ago. A wanderlust-hungry English student wanting to combine her two loves, writing and travel, is what led to her exciting career. During her studies, Lois completed a work placement in the editorial offices of Conde Nast Traveller London, where she fell even more in love with travel writing. From there, she graduated with honours and began work as an SEO journalist, before transitioning to her other love: writing about running. Since then, she has worked as a deputy editor for several lifestyle publications, including a global travel brand. Through this, she has been able to see even more of the world, visiting both Finland and California with the respective tourism boards.
Education
Lois has a master's degree in English Literature and a postgraduate degree in Digital Journalism.
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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When visiting Sacramento, make sure to get out of the city and explore this lakeside gem of a suburb with great food, shopping, and outdoor recreation.
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To experience a blissful Adirondack paradise with gorgeous waterfalls, trails for all levels of hikers, and ample spots for camping, head to this New York spot.
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Water Sports
By Lois Mackenzie
Following the guidance of this catchy four-word rhyme could help you save the life of someone who is drowning without putting yourself in danger, too.
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Tennessee
By Lois Mackenzie
Located between two well-known Tennessee cities, this destination combines rural surroundings, a safe community, and a genuine small-town environment.
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Michigan
By Lois Mackenzie
Some towns in the Midwest lean into their cultural heritage and identity more than others. This small Michigan city wears its history on its sleeve.
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Kentucky
By Lois Mackenzie
Tour the waterways on a sunset cruise, relax on a kayak, and listen to live music at one of Kentucky's best barbecue festivals when you visit this town.
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Arkansas
By Lois Mackenzie
While many think of the Netflix series when they hear Ozarks, it's actually a popular recreational area with several family-friendly outdoor activities.
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Virginia
By Lois Mackenzie
Nature and animal lovers won't want to miss this charming Virginia town near Norfolk with horses, alpacas, and a golf course running through trees.
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Tips and Hacks
By Lois Mackenzie
Hotel cleaning staff have seen it all, but there's this one recurring bathroom issue leaves them shaking their heads and reaching for extra gloves.
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In Oregon there is a large swath of underrated wilderness where solitude and beauty can be found in the forests and wildflowers of this ancient volcano.
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Air Travel
By Lois Mackenzie
If you're flying in the winter and the plane is covered in snow and ice, it legally cannot depart. How much does de-icing cost the airline? Why is it crucial?
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Minnesota
By Lois Mackenzie
Indulge in all things raspberry in this small town on the outskirts of Minneapolis that's known for its charming downtown and year-round fun events.
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Illinois
By Lois Mackenzie
With its parks and lakes plus great dining and shopping options, this Chicago suburb was ranked by U.S. News as the 4th best place to live in Illinois.
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This Canadian national park is situated in the world's largest freshwater island chain. It offers beautiful opportunities for hiking and camping.
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Camping
By Lois Mackenzie
Costco's new snack box made for at-home munching is now getting a second identity as a camping hack thanks to its wide collection of easily carried foods.
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Camping
By Lois Mackenzie
Building a campfire is easy in theory but can be difficult in practice, depending on what kind of materials you can find. This Costco product makes things easy.
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This Milwaukee neighborhood blends Victorian architecture and a long legacy as a brewery suburb with open spaces and ample trails for hiking and biking.
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California
By Lois Mackenzie
If you're going to Joshua Tree, this nearby resort is the perfect basecamp while you plan your desert adventure through the beautiful landscape.
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Travel Gear
By Lois Mackenzie
For a designer-looking carry-on that costs just a fraction of its counterparts, head to Sam's Club and look for this stylish and functional weekender bag.
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Chicago, Illinois
By Lois Mackenzie
After exploring Chicago, take a break with some walkable trails and beautiful green space in the affordable suburb known as the "heart of Lake County."
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Kentucky
By Lois Mackenzie
There are plenty of well-known places to visit if you're a nature lover. Instead of those, head to this Midwest mountain town for a vacation to remember.
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Rhode Island
By Lois Mackenzie
It's easy to get back to nature in New England, and there is one stunning waterfall that's worth the hike in one lush Rhode Island state park.
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Air Travel
By Lois Mackenzie
This electronics mistake is easy to make and, for those on shorthaul or budget flights, it can mean that you miss out on in-flight entertainment options.
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Travel Gear
By Lois Mackenzie
Discover Walmart's viral 12-person camping tent, the budget-friendly essential. Enjoy spacious comfort with no crouching or crawling, and it's weather-friendly.
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The perfect basecamp for outdoor adventures like off-roading, camping, and rock climbing is located in this small town in Utah between Provo and Richfield.
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Chicago, Illinois
By Lois Mackenzie
Only an hour's drive from the center of Chicago, this rural getaway is safe, perfect for families, and full of charming farms and nature preserves.
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Tips and Hacks
By Lois Mackenzie
Mnemonic devices help you remember life skills that could come in handy while exploring the great outdoors. This one is essential if you’re camping or boating.
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