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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Michigan
By Makayla Maxwell 5 days ago
This affordable county in Michigan is popular with retirees because it has lakes, a county fair, horseback trails, and an International Dark Sky Park.
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Pennsylvania
By Makayla Maxwell 8 days ago
This outdoorsy county has several close-knit communities, activities for seniors, and more outdoor hiking and walking than you can shake a stick at.
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Europe
By Makayla Maxwell 8 days ago
This town is known for its deep-water harbor, once a privateer haunt. Now full of fishing boats and private yachts, the place makes the perfect seaside getaway.
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Massachusetts
By Makayla Maxwell 11 days ago
Trade Boston’s cityscape for a nearby state forest. Winding trails pass by the remains of historic structures, while wildlife plays amongst the trees.
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Virginia
By Makayla Maxwell 13 days ago
Considering retirement? This coastal county in Virginia has mild weather, a trio of pretty riverside towns, and a huge state park.
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Louisiana
By Makayla Maxwell 16 days ago
The Lake Ponch community has been featured on many roundups of top places to settle down, with lots of natural spaces and plenty of dining and shopping options.
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Europe
By Makayla Maxwell 20 days ago
For the perfect quaint fishing village filled with nature and harbor views, head to this spot with beautiful beaches, wildlife tours, and fresh seafood.
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Europe
By Makayla Maxwell 21 days ago
This town has a storied history and makes a great base for exploring Northumberland, from the ruins of Hadrian's Wall to rambling the national park.
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Connecticut
By Makayla Maxwell 26 days ago
Just outside of New York City is a retiree hotspot with charming communities, plenty of beaches, cultural attractions, and a variety of local boutiques.
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Texas
By Makayla Maxwell 29 days ago
This Hill Country suburb makes a cozy place to live while everything you need, from natural hikes and swimming to excellent restaurants, lies nearby.
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Maine
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
Instead of retiring in Florida, opt for a charming county in a Northeastern state, with senior-friendly towns, lakeside adventures, and antiquing.
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Canada
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
This lovely town in Canada is a popular retirement destination for a reason and has a scenic river, gorgeous sandy beaches, quick trails, and beautiful parks.
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Central and South America
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
For the perfect beach vacation filled with nature, whale-watching, surfing, and sunshine, head to this less-crowded and gorgeous coastal town in Peru.
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Milwaukee, Wisconsin
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
Yes, the states near the Great Lakes get brutal winters. But if you can handle the cold, this Wisconsin county is a gem of beauty and convenient living.
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Delaware
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
This coastal county may have the combination of things you're seeking: senior-friendly taxes, gorgeous coastlines, and plenty to keep you busy, to name a few.
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Missouri
By Makayla Maxwell 1 month ago
Instead of retiring in Florida, active seniors should consider this county in Missouri, which boasts lake activities, charming communities, and state parks.
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Massachusetts
By Makayla Maxwell 2 months 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 2 months 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 2 months 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 3 months 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 3 months 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 3 months 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 3 months 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 3 months 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 3 months 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 3 months 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 3 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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