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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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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Arkansas
By Madeleine Bee
Whether you're looking to reel in a big one, tube and wakeboard, or chill by the water, this lakeside town in Arkansas makes for a charming getaway.
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Maryland
By Madeleine Bee
Enjoy live music at the annual jazz festival, take a stroll by the water, or indulge in fresh-caught crab with a visit to this charming Maryland town.
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Arkansas
By Madeleine Bee
Not only is this tiny Arkansas town home to a James Beard award-winning restaurant, but it's surrounded by pristine woodland and serene lakes.
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Seeking a peacful getaway that puts you close to a wealth of local artwork and live music? Venture out to this small riverfront town in the heart of Iowa.
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California
By Madeleine Bee
Believe it or not, a turquoise lake in southern California's Mojave Desert has dozens of campsites, lovely hiking trails, and numerous activities on the lake.
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Wisconsin
By Madeleine Bee
Wisconsin may not be known for its varied topography, but this small village offers visitors a wonderland of steep ravines and lakeside forests to explore.
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New York
By Madeleine Bee
Retirees headed to upstate New York will find a retirement city that offers seniors affordable home prices as well as access to incredible care and attractions.
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Michigan
By Madeleine Bee
With delicious wine, quick access to Saginaw Bay, and plenty of charming local restaurants, this Michigan town makes for a great stop along the Sunrise Coast.
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North Carolina
By Madeleine Bee
Asheville, North Carolina, is home to a thriving art neighborhood with hundreds of local artists' studios and places to get coffee or beer between galleries.
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Virginia
By Madeleine Bee
Within Virginia's Appalachian range, there's an "adventure tourism capital" town with mountain charm and plenty to do for hikers, bikers, and motorcyclists.
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West Virginia
By Madeleine Bee
West Virginia is full of small towns that are home to a wealth of natural beauty, but this overlooked community has a history all Americans should know about.
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This suburb and accompanying river outside of Portland offer miles of biking and paddling trails, making it a fun outdoor destination close to the city.
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Delaware
By Madeleine Bee
This small town is often overshadowed by Delaware's beach destinations, but its unique history and authentic eateries make it great for your next getaway.
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Illinois
By Madeleine Bee
Looking to settle down with a slower-paced life, but still crave the city? This Chicago suburb offers a mix of easy access to the city and great atmosphere.
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For an adventure-filled vacation any time of the year, visit a small town in Vermont known for its iconic ski resort and idyllic summer events.
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Connecticut
By Madeleine Bee
For a little slice of New England charm backed up by challenging hikes, characterful cafes, and history at every turn, this Connecticut town has you covered.
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From thriving port to ghost town, this village in Northern Norway has seen an artsy revival, now home to eclectic shops, fine dining, and stunning scenery.
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Washington
By Madeleine Bee
Located a quick drive from North Cascades National Park and overflowing with unique restaurants, this town makes for an epic outdoor escape.
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Missouri
By Madeleine Bee
Just outside of the bustling streets of St. Louis is a trendy suburb offering walkable charm, upscale shops, and a smattering of beautiful green spaces.
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Tucked within one of the hottest regions in Spain, you’ll find a self-sustaining, utopian-like town with charming vibes, no police, and no unemployment.
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New York
By Madeleine Bee
Escape to Upstate with a visit to this quaint New York town overlooking the Hudson River, with historic Dutch architecture and tasty local eateries.
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Step back in time with a visit to this Canadian ghost town, boasting a museum, antique trolleys, and train cars, plus an overlook hike with mountain views.
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Virginia
By Madeleine Bee
This unique Virginia site hides a small community complete with Chesapeake Bay beaches, historic monuments, and a waterfront seafood restaurant.
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Embrace your inner adventurer when you visit this Arizona desert destination known for its stunning trails, unique history, and hot air balloon excursions.
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New York
By Madeleine Bee
Discover the little-known New York destination that hides an intriguing history, gorgeous landscapes, and thriving wildlife. Here's how to see it for yourself.
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