Location
Salem, Massachusetts
School
Emerson College, University of Vermont
Expertise
Central/Eastern Europe & Turkey, Hotels & resorts, The expat experience
- Mike has written for dozens of print and online travel publications.
- He has reviewed more than 50 hotels.
- He's also written and edited more than a dozen guidebooks.
Experience
Mike discovered journalism while living in Istanbul. From there he returned to USA and earned a master's degree in publishing and writing at Emerson College. Since then he has served as writer and editor at dozens of print and online travel publications. He also teaches travel writing at Gotham Writers Workshop.
Education
Mike has an MA in publishing and writing from Emerson College and a BA in English from University of Vermont. Mike also won a scholarship to study a year at the University of Kent in Canterbury, UK.
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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If you're itching to have a relaxing vacation in a quaint mountain town, then try exploring this adorable hamlet in the Green Mountain state.
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In the scenic Hudson Valley, visitors can escape to a remote resort surrounded by nature. Enjoy a spa, hiking trails, cooking classes, and seasonal cuisine.
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New England is known for its foliage and history, but it can also be great for retirees. This Vermont town has a walkable downtown and vibrant art community.
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This city is famous for its historic school, and it has tons to offer for students and non-students alike — from lakeside festivals to international cuisine.
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Get lost in the Vegas-like glitz of a luxurious casino tucked between Minneapolis and Rochester, where entertainment, accommodations, and food are top tier.
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Rhode Island
By Mike Dunphy
Along with its beautiful white-sand beaches, the Rhode Island coast features a 150-foot-deep chasm that has inspired local legends and ghost stories.
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Massachusetts
By Mike Dunphy
In the western part of Massachusetts is a charming town where visitors can enjoy the historic district and an art community surrounded by scenic views.
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Massachusetts
By Mike Dunphy
Stroll through leafy streets near Boston lined with indie shops, acclaimed restaurants, and arts venues that anchor a thriving local community.
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Scenic drives, alpine ridges, historic ski terrain, and vibrant foliage make Vermont's highest summit a popular year-round mountain destination.
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A dream European trip is likely to include some iconic cities. But if you want to avoid throngs of other tourists, you might want to take this tip.
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Pick between a longer and a shorter loop to complete this 3.9- or 8.8-mile trail on Cape Cod and see some of the most serene beach landscapes in Massachusetts.
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Massachusetts
By Mike Dunphy
With every cafe claiming to have the best coffee in town, it can be a chore finding the spots that can back it up. This Boston coffee shop doesn't disappoint.
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Covering 17,503 acres of dense woodland and mountain terrain, this state forest in Vermont awaits you with stunning hikes, over 100 species of birds, and more.
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This upscale Georgia treehouse is an adult playground. Mirrored on all sides, indulge in a bath with views of the forest or sip champagne on the deck.
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A tiny, walkable Vermont city blends historic charm, cultural diversity, and a buzzing downtown scene, all packed into just 1.5 square miles.
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It doesn't get more magical than this homey and historic town in Vermont, where old-school buildings are set against a rushing river and snowy mountains.
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Perched on the Canadian border along Lake Champlain, this New York village offers plenty of outdoor adventures, history, and some local businesses to explore.
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With 19th-century architecture, local restaurants and shops, easy access to verdant state parks, and wintertime skiing, this walkable city is a New England gem.
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From lively casinos and gourmet restaurants to tranquil spas and harbor-view suites, this Massachusetts getaway combines energy with elegance.
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Massachusetts
By Mike Dunphy
Nestled berween two New England cities lies a charming town with a historic downtown, tranquil parklands, and trails perfect for every season.
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Enjoy an easy but magical hike through verdant wetlands to one of Vermont's largest waterfalls before heading off on another adventure at nearby swimming holes.
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Massachusetts
By Mike Dunphy
Escape Boston’s bustling streets to enjoy a green respite in the heart of the city, featuring iconic exhibitions from artists and gardens with local flora.
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Following a spate of anglers displaying cruelty to animals, this Florida program aims to reward eco-conscious charter boat captains who do things right.
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Pennsylvania
By Mike Dunphy
History buffs and nature lovers alike will find plenty to pique the senses on this scenic hiking trails that stretches from Washington, DC to Maryland.
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This road in Switzerland was made famous by one of the James Bond films in the 1960s, and now fans are renting sports cards to experience it for themselves.
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Massachusetts
By Mike Dunphy
Massachusetts has so much history and great outdoors to enjoy, including this historic state park near Boston that has tons of trails and seasonal foliage.
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Anyone looking to visit Vermont should visit this picturesque getaway -- no matter the season or weather, there are so many things to do close by.
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