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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Tucked away in the Texas Hill Country, this rustic spot gives visitors access to various swimming holes, charming cabins, and other recreation opportunities.
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On a Canadian road trip from Detroit to Buffalo, make a stop at this quaint town just outside Point Pelee National Park, boasting restaurants and an art hub.
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This Eastern Wyoming haven is on the doorstep of Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest & Thunder Basin National Grassland and offers idyllic stays in nature.
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North Carolina
By Madeleine Bee
Though it may be tiny, this charming North Carolina town is home to a few popular diners and a cozy Main Street with plenty of unique shops.
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Missouri
By Madeleine Bee
St. Louis is a great city to visit, but there a suburb that is well worth a trip. It has historic buildings and good shops in a small-town atmosphere.
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Massachusetts
By Madeleine Bee
Where can you find both a bookstore owned by the writer of "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" and a harness-racing track/casino? In this Massachusetts town.
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Pitch a tent and spend a night under the stars or hike along trails through marshland, keeping an eye out for heron and deer at this Florida nature area.
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This remote fishing lodge has wide-ranging of reviews, proving it's not for everyone. But for those looking for a fishing getaway, it has a lot to offer.
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Wisconsin
By Madeleine Bee
Just outside of Green Bay, this fast-growing Wisconsin village is home to a fun outdoor adventure park and a handful of popular local eateries.
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New Hampshire
By Madeleine Bee
New Hampshire is full of charming little towns, including this one, where you can spot wildlife on a hike or cast a line from the riverbanks.
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Wisconsin
By Madeleine Bee
Looking for a scenic Midwest escape? Don't sleep on this charming river city between Minneapolis and Madison, offering great camping and views of the water.
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Named after a famous historical figure who set out searching for gold, these falls make for an excellent quick hike into Georgia's natural beauty.
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New York
By Madeleine Bee
With its sandy beaches, local restaurants, and popular green spaces, this town near Buffalo is a wonderful spot to disconnect from the hustle of daily life.
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This Ohio village may be off the typical tourist radar, but it's worth a stop for a fascinating local museum, community festivals, and unique shops.
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Farms aren't all you'll find on the road from Chicago to Indianapolis. This tiny town has a boutique and antique store worth visiting, and a big fall festival.
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Niagara Falls may be the most famous waterfall in the world, but there are other falls at a nearby Ontario nature preserve worth checking out, too.
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If you’re looking to experience everything that Maine has to offer without the crowds, head to this quiet, scenic lake for fishing, swimming, and boating.
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This Miami suburb is anything but sleepy, with a major stadium, a well-equipped casino, a variety of cuisines, and plenty of shops to browse.
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This underrated city right on the Ohio river has lots to explore -- from historic architecture and sprawling antique shops to paddleboarding.
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Iowa may not be near a coast, but it has plenty of lakes. The second-largest of these is in a state park with plenty of outdoor fun available.
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Arkansas
By Madeleine Bee
Arkansas may not scream "wine country" to many, but if this European-inspired village is anything to go on, maybe that ought to change.
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College towns are known for cozy stores with immaculate vibes and a strong, tight-knit feeling of community. This Ohio bastion of learning fits the bill.
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Missouri
By Madeleine Bee
A stunningly charming city in Missouri shines the spotlight on its rich history, while offering visitors great options to shop for antiques, flowers, and more.
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Planning to go camping and fishing on your next vacation? Should your journey take you to or near Fort Wayne, Indiana, consider this lush wooded oasis.
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Missouri
By Madeleine Bee
If you're looking for a fun alternative to St. Louis, Missouri, this nearby city offers a variety of options for enjoying the outdoors, art, and a good brew.
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Kentucky
By Madeleine Bee
A delightful small town filled with incredible shops and a very rich history is waiting for you, and once you read about it, you'll want to plan your trip.
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From a harvest festival in the fall to a light festival in December, there is plenty to do in this quaint little town — not to mention its culinary offerings.
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