School
University of Alabama, Oxford University
Expertise
European Travel, Caribbean Travel, Solo Travel
- Makayla spent a summer living in Europe, where she developed her passion for European travel destinations.
- She enjoys traveling to historic and culturally important destinations across the U.S., Europe, and the Caribbean, drawing inspiration for her writing.
- Makayla was raised in a traveling family and visited over 12 different countries with them before graduating from high school.
Experience
Makayla began working in journalism during her undergraduate years. She wrote for 1956 Magazine and the Crimson White, two student-led publications at the University of Alabama. During her tenure, she earned 3rd place in the "Best Magazine Writer" competition at the 2024 Southwest Journalism Conference and helped lead the publication to 2nd place for "Best Magazine." She received similar accolades for her role as Race and Identity Reporter for The Crimson White, earning "Best Feature Writer" at the same conference. During undergrad, she became the writing editor for 1956 Magazine in her final year.
Education
Makayla earned a bachelor's in English and international studies from the University of Alabama and studied at Oxford University for a semester.
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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Massachusetts
By Makayla Maxwell 11 days ago
When looking at where to retire, skip Florida and opt for a cozy Massachusetts town, complete with New England charm downtown and a historic state park.
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Massachusetts
By Makayla Maxwell 12 days ago
Want to stay near the big city, but have a slower pace of life? This small town offers tons to do, from enjoying local eats to spending the day enjoying nature.
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Georgia
By Makayla Maxwell 23 days ago
International restaurants, antique shops, annual festivals, and a historic downtown give this Atlanta-area suburb plenty to explore just beyond the city.
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Massachusetts
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
This charming Massachusetts town has lakeside scenery, local flavor, small-town history, and peaceful outdoor spaces, making it an easygoing East Coast escape.
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North Carolina
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
North Carolina is filled with charming small towns, like this one which was once famed for its denim production. It's less than 30 miles from Fayetteville.
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Virginia
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
Fascinating history and gorgeous nature collide with delightful results in the charming Virginia town located in the Allegheny Mountains.
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Illinois
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
This charming town in Illinois is an off-the-beaten-path gem with a surprising number of things to do, including festivals, antiquing, and outdoor adventuring.
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Maine
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
Maine is known for its picturesque towns. And this one has great spots to eat, fun places to shop, and lots of opportunities for hiking along the water.
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Missouri
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
If you're looking for a dash of history with a small-town vibe, look no further than this friendly Missouri city just outside of St. Louis.
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Ohio
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
Formerly a glass factory, this park was reclaimed by the community and turned into a beautiful location with stunning views, gorgeous lakes, and plenty of fun.
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Washington
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
For a lakeside stop on your way from Seattle to North Cascades National Park, visit a charming small town with outdoor fun and views of the snowy mountains.
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Washington
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
This quaint town near Seattle boasts beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains, pathways through marshland, and interesting historical sites to uncover.
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North Carolina
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
This county has miles of gorgeous Atlantic beaches, miles of Intracoastal Waterway for boating adventures, golf courses, and welcoming towns to explore.
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Michigan
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
Boasting access to two lakes, a river, and an abundance of outdoor recreation, this scenic county has been named among the best places to retire in the Midwest.
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Ohio
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
Toledo is one of the biggest cities in Ohio, but if you want to experience a more subdued side of the metro area, head to this adorable suburb.
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Alabama
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
This city in Alabama is welcoming for families with fun educational things to do. Its downtown is quaint and its quirky history adds vibrant personality.
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Iowa
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
This small town in the rolling hills of southwest Iowa offers its visitors a rounded experience with great restaurants and a state park with a beautiful lake.
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Indiana
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
There are many Midwest towns that offer picturesque charm, but this town in Indiana has an ideal mix of activities and history — all within walking distance.
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Texas
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
Retirees might find the perfect place to call home in this Lone Star State county that highlights historic sites and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.
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Europe
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months ago
This often-overlooked picturesque town in England is absolutely drenched in history and offers quaint shops, Thames barges, and the must-see Saltmarsh coast.
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Canada
By Makayla Maxwell 3 months ago
Newfoundland boasts several adorable towns and picturesque locales, and one in particular is a haven for art lovers who also value charming outdoorsy spaces.
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Asia
By Makayla Maxwell 3 months ago
This beautiful Southeast Asian island getaway offers pristine beaches, turquoise waters, jungle adventures, and a laid-back atmosphere away from the crowds.
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Canada
By Makayla Maxwell 3 months ago
This lovely Quebec village captivates visitors with centuries-old architecture, peaceful riverfront vistas, picturesque streets, and picturesque parks.
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Iowa
By Makayla Maxwell 3 months ago
This Midwest city in Iowa, located between Omaha and Des Moines, is home to fun shops, quiet trails, and family friendly events and outings.
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Canada
By Makayla Maxwell 3 months ago
Explore Fenelon Falls in Ontario’s Kawartha Lakes, a charming village with waterfalls, beaches, local shops, festivals, and scenic outdoor adventures.
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Massachusetts
By Makayla Maxwell 3 months ago
This vibrant historic neighborhood in Boston has centuries-old landmarks, expansive green spaces, diverse cultural attractions, and an acclaimed dining scene.
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Oregon
By Makayla Maxwell 3 months ago
This charming Oregon city offers historic streets, welcoming local businesses, outdoor recreation, lakeside beauty, and nearby waterfall adventures.
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