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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New Jersey
By Madeleine Bee
For outdoor adventure in New Jersey, we recommend going to a North Jersey destination along the Pennsylvania border, where there are ample hiking spots.
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North Carolina
By Madeleine Bee
If you're seeking a relaxing place to unwind in retirement, this charming North Carolina community by Lake Norman offers direct access to watersports and golf.
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Discover this Montana town, nestled on the Blackfeet Reservation, where visitors will be in close proximity to one of the most beautiful national parks.
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Whether you're traveling with family or organizing an adults-only getaway, this Alabama town and its stunning lake offer plenty of fun and relaxation.
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Virginia
By Madeleine Bee
If you haven't put Virginia on your travel list yet, reconsider. Not only is the state reinventing its diverse wine scene, it's got views to match the pours.
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North Carolina
By Madeleine Bee
Along with an excellent golf course and quick access to several beaches, this North Carolina community is near the Intracoastal Waterway and its many amenities.
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Wisconsin
By Madeleine Bee
Wisconsin might be famous for its cheese and dairy products, but this village proves the state can still churn out all sorts of delectable dishes.
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This town in the southwest part of the Cowboy State offers unique lodging and dining options, plus access to outdoor activities like hiking and boating.
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This town offers a cozy atmosphere in a quiet part of the state, and it's near some outstanding outdoor adventures, including a rail-to-trail and ATV tracks.
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South Carolina
By Madeleine Bee
South Carolina is certainly known for its beaches, but they can get a bit crowded. Try visiting this beach just outside of Beaufort instead. Here's why.
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Kentucky
By Madeleine Bee
In eastern Kentucky, you'll find the home of country music icon Loretta Lynn as well as museums and parks at the feet of the Appalachian Mountains.
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Maryland
By Madeleine Bee
If you're looking forward to East Coast road trips, keep this stretch in mind. Then visit this charming town in the middle of Maryland, just off the byway.
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Pennsylvania
By Madeleine Bee
For incredible Italian food and great hikes to do between pizzas, head to this small town nestled beside Scranton in Pennsylvania's Valley View region.
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Virginia
By Madeleine Bee
This charming Virginia town offers convenient access to both outdoor adventures on the water and a town center packed with restaurants and shops.
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California
By Madeleine Bee
Search for Bigfoot, visit the oldest continually used Chinese temple in California, drive through Gold Rush towns, and hike forest trails on this scenic byway.
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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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