School
Raqi Qirinxhi High School, University of Tirana
Expertise
Solo travel, European destinations, Budget-friendly travel strategies
- After spending seven years island-hopping across Greece, Megi has become an expert in uncovering the Mediterranean's most beautiful hidden gems.
- Megi embarked on a month-long museum tour through Italy, visiting world-renowned exhibitions and immersing herself in the country's rich art and culture.
- As an avid budget traveler, Megi once explored both Vienna and Budapest for just $500 in five days, proving that incredible experiences don't have to come with an unattainable price tag.
Experience
With over eight years of experience traveling to more than 30 countries, Megi has built a reputation as an expert in crafting travel guides and providing practical travel advice. Her work has been featured in several well-known travel publications, where she's covered everything from budget travel tips to exploring some of the world's most unique destinations. Now, as a dedicated writer for Islands, Megi continues to share her passion for adventures and the art of traveling smart.
Education
Megi holds a bachelor's degree in Economics and Finance from the University of Tirana.
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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While Omaha may be the big draw to Nebraska, its smaller cities offer extra charm — including beautiful historic buildings, scenic walking trails, and shops.
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Head to this quaint corner of Eastern Tennessee where you'll find delicious restaurants, wine bars, and plenty of outdoor activities to keep everyone busy.
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This underrated state park is a great alternative to Lake Erie with two serene lakes, a small swimming beach, and opportunities for boat rentals.
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Pennsylvania
By Megi Canco
Pennsylvania’s natural areas are often overpowered by the state’s iconic cities, but a remote state park provides the perfect peaceful escape.
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Escape the bustle of Orlando in this smaller city nearby, which hosts its own amenities from art installations to lakes and a variety of restaurants.
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Head to this suburb of Stockton, California, that's known for its fishing opportunities, delicious and diverse restaurants, and pretty green spaces.
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Want to escape the Cincinnati or Columbus, Ohio, metro? Take a day trip to this small town that offers great local eats, a park, and easy trails for some fun.
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This under-the-radar city in British Columbia is just an hour from Vancouver but offers scenic countryside landscapes and farm-to-table restaurants.
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Many California travelers rush between major cities without realizing that a waterfront community packed with shops, dining, and marshland sits along the way.
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Just outside of Madison’s urban layout, you’ll find a charming city with local shops, community festivals, and historic buildings in a quaint downtown.
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Looking for small town charm with an emphasis on beautification via public art, and plenty of outdoor activities? Make this your next stop.
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Take a day trip out of Kansas City to see one of Missouri’s most charming small towns, complete with river vistas and quaint shops that scream “Americana.”
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This lakeside destination in Minnesota may not be a big city, but it offers plenty to do on both land and water, and it's close to a lot of hotspots.
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Though sometimes-overlooked, one town in Wisconsin is a destination to take note of, offering all sorts of outdoor activities, urban attractions, and more.
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Sandwiched between two of Washington's biggest cities, this community is a bright and colorful retreat right on the lake, with art around every corner.
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This charming town minutes from Buffalo and the Canadian border is a suburb boasting both great shopping at chains and local stores as well as scenic parks.
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While this Michigan city may be on the small side, it offers a relaxing getaway for arts enthusiasts, foodies, and outdoor lovers with kids in tow.
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This tiny Iowa city is home to a handful of unique local shops, a free museum, and a state park with a cozy campground, hiking trails, and serene lake.
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Massachusetts
By Megi Canco
Branch out from the sightseeing hubs you're used to visiting. Instead, explore this adorable town with cute local stores and outdoor adventure opportunities.
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Not far from the Peach State's capital city, you can immerse yourself in a flourishing neighborhood full of cute stores, lush parks, and excellent restaurants.
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Locals can't speak highly enough of this little town in Northern Sonoma County, surrounded by dozens of wineries, a scenic river, and fantastic restaurants.
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Hidden between two major Midwest metros, this quiet destination features locally owned businesses, beloved restaurants, parks, and small-town charm.
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This town has all the Midwest charm you could want, complete with a state park swim beach and incredible local eateries in the downtown area.
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North Dakota
By Megi Canco
This quiet city near Fargo has seen rapid growth over the years, so while it still offers small-town charm, it's also home to a wealth of new amenities.
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Tucked along Ontario waterways near Toronto, this laid-back destination is known for canals, boating, beaches, and quiet waterfront scenery.
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The shores of Lake Erie harbor countless opportunities for fun and relaxation, and this Canadian beach town ticks many of the boxes for outdoor adventure.
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This Tennessee town saw many tourists in 1925, thanks to the Scopes Trial, and it is still a popular spot today, with both fishing and a historic downtown.
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