School
University of St Andrews, University of Cape Town
Expertise
Arts & Culture, Hiking, Budget Friendly Travel
- Madeleine has traveled to five continents and lived in three.
- She speaks good French, okay Spanish, basic Afrikaans, and would like to learn isiXhosa.
- She is passionate about supporting ethical, responsible travel that is respectful toward people, cultures, and the natural world.
Experience
Madeleine has been a professional writer for 10 years. In the travel space, she has written for outlets including but not limited to The Culture Trip, What's On in Cape Town, and Matador Network. More broadly, her bylines appear in Icarus Complex Magazine, Where the Leaves Fall, and elsewhere.
Education
She holds an M.A. in English literature from the University of St Andrews and an M.A. in documentary arts from the University of Cape Town.
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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This is the perfect small city for recreation and shopping. Kayak or canoe along the Columbus Paddling Trail, or shop for cowboy boots and craft goods downtown.
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Idaho doesn't seem like the kind of place you'd expect to find an island, but this destination in Thousand Springs State Park is one you can't miss.
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Virginia
By Madeleine Bee
This unassuming town in coastal Virginia is an outdoor lovers' haven with nearby state parks and waterfront access for paddleboarding and kayaking.
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Missouri
By Madeleine Bee
In Missouri's Ozarks, a storybook town blends early 1900s architecture, artisanal shops, and calm river views in a setting rich with character.
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Pennsylvania
By Madeleine Bee
Discover this small suburb of Pittsburgh that's experiencing a recent renaissance with fun events and delicious restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops.
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This riverside retreat offers stellar scenery and outdoor activities ranging from sailing and fishing to hiking and biking, all within easy reach of Portland.
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Kentucky
By Madeleine Bee
Want to experience the feel of a country music festival in a more relaxed setting? This underrated and charming town in Kentucky offers a variety of fun events.
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South Dakota
By Madeleine Bee
People sometimes overlook South Dakota as a travel destination, but a closer look at what it has to offer shows that might be a big mistake.
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Looking to explore Texas' Hill Country? Discover stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures in this charming town that make for the perfect year-round getaway.
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Mississippi
By Madeleine Bee
Whether you're hankering to see vintage Coke merchandise or sip on a cola float, this special Coca-Cola museum in Mississippi is a sweet treat.
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An Ohio college town near Cleveland with almost 200 years of history promises cultured shopping and food options guaranteed to hit just the right spot.
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This hidden gem in British Columbia is perfect for relaxing your muscles on a long drive along the Alaska Highway. Set up camp after taking in the hot springs.
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Wisconsin
By Madeleine Bee
Often hidden by Milwaukee's bustling hub, this underrated Wisconsin city certainly makes up for its small size with its incredible shopping and dining scene.
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South Carolina
By Madeleine Bee
This South Carolina town is small but mighty. Unwind in one of the many parks, step back in time at the heritage museum, or join locals for the Lowcountry Boil.
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New Hampshire
By Madeleine Bee
This scenic New Hampshire town is well worth a visit, to go hiking around a state park, take in some history, and enjoy a little local culture.
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Oklahoma
By Madeleine Bee
Escape to this charming Oklahoma town, where you can shop to your heart's content, enjoy delicious local food and drinks, and stroll along the Blue River.
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Louisiana
By Madeleine Bee
Not far from Lafayette is a scenic paddling trail featuring swamp systems and bayous. Traverse it by kayak to experience the best of Louisiana's wilderness.
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Virginia
By Madeleine Bee
This Virginia hamlet is the perfect detour from D.C., offering wine tastings at 20 vineyards, polo matches, and shopping on Washington Street.
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Louisiana
By Madeleine Bee
Mind alligator nesting season near this underrated Louisiana destination near Baton Rouge, which brims with flavorful cuisine and exciting outdoor activities.
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Tennessee
By Madeleine Bee
Just in time for autumn, this stunning Tennessee roadway bursts with vibrant fall colors, perfectly complemented by the shimmering lake nearby.
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Colorado
By Madeleine Bee
Whether you're looking for a new home near the Rocky Mountains or want a relaxing getaway from Denver, this suburb needs to be on your radar.
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Pennsylvania
By Madeleine Bee
This charming small town near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania boasts lovely scenery, an elegant winery, and a candy shop attached to a jaw-dropping elephant emporium.
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The beauty of Montana has long drawn travelers and, to get the most out of your trip to this gorgeous state, stay in this idyllic city surrounded by mountains.
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California
By Madeleine Bee
Driving this scenic byway just minutes outside of downtown Los Angeles might be risky, but you'll be rewarded with beautiful mountain views and picnic spots.
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Pennsylvania
By Madeleine Bee
Philadelphia is loaded with history and exciting food, but take a short trip to the northern reaches of the city and you can find even more cultural charm.
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Delaware
By Madeleine Bee
Delaware is home to a seaside town that holds a family-friendly Halloween festival filled with parade floats, costume contests, and holiday-themed activities.
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Australia
By Madeleine Bee
This stunning lagoon in Western Australia is as pink as the photos, no filter needed. Admire its fuchsia waters with a road trip just five hours from Perth.
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