School
Syracuse University, Wilkes University
Expertise
Outdoor Adventure, Luxury Wellness Experiences, Sober Travel
- In 2018, Michelle spent a year backpacking around the world solo.
- Some of her favorite beach and island destinations include Sicily, the Borromean Islands, Gili Air, the Florida Keys, and Los Cabos.
- Her travel writing has been published in Explore Magazine, Travel + Leisure, The Quality Edit, and more.
Experience
Michelle Polizzi is an essayist and journalist born and raised in Northern Appalachia. As a first-generation college student born to parents without passports, she spent hours as a kid poring over dusty old National Geographic magazines bought from a garage sale. In college, she studied abroad in Strasbourg, France, and fell in love with Biscoff spread and Camembert cheese. From Oregon to Rhode Island to Florida, Michelle has called numerous states home. Additionally, she has been to more than 20 countries and 35 U.S. states, many of them solo.
Education
Michelle earned a B.A. in writing and rhetoric from Syracuse University and an M.A. in creative writing from Wilkes University.
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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Europe
By Michelle Polizzi
This family farm turned five-star resort offers a luxury experience in longevity, featuring a world-class spa with an infinity pool integrated into a lake.
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Colorado
By Michelle Polizzi
This beloved Rocky Mountain destination offers countless year-round activities for families and more affordable prices than other Colorado hot spots.
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Florida
By Michelle Polizzi
Nestled in northwest Florida, this historic town was once partially destroyed by a hurricane, but its enduring beauty and natural springs make it a must-visit.
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Connecticut
By Michelle Polizzi
With an atmosphere so enchanting that it inspired the creation of a hit TV series, this Connecticut village belongs on your New England bucket list.
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As one of the darkest places in Washington, this state park offers stunning stargazing, comfy camping, and waterside sports and relaxation by Pearrygin Lake.
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Montana
By Michelle Polizzi
Perched on the banks of the Bitterroot River is the real Dutton ranch used in the hit show "Yellowstone," nestled in a quintessential Old West town.
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Minnesota
By Michelle Polizzi
This charming town sits at the convergence of the Minnesota River and Chippewa River and offers old-world Scandinavian beauty around every corner.
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Colorado
By Michelle Polizzi
Not far from Mesa Verde National Park, and home to a train that's a National Historic Landmark, this Colorado riverside hub is a must-visit for a magical trip.
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Idaho
By Michelle Polizzi
Perched on the Snake River, this scenic Idaho city enjoys a lower cost of living, cheaper house prices, a vibrant historic old town, and waterfalls galore.
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