5 Florida Locations Where You Can See Wild Alligators
From the Everglades to former cattle ranches turned preserves, these five Florida spots offer some of the best chances to see alligators in the wild.
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2021
Mina Elwell
Islands Editorial Policies
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.
Stories By Mina Elwell
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The 5 Best Caves To Visit In California, According To Travelers
California is a great place for spelunking -- aka exploring caves. While you might think one cave is like another, each one is unique and these are the best.
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Lake Superior's 5 Most Hauntingly Beautiful Shipwrecks
Lake Superior is home to over 500 shipwrecks that visitors can see for themselves, whether by diving or glass-bottom boat tours that reveal their scars.
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Colorado's 5 Best Stargazing Spots That Deliver Breathtaking Views
Colorado is known for its scenic beauty, but some of its best views are only visible after the sun sets. Here are 5 of the state's best stargazing spots.
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The Gem Of Ohio's Iconic Hocking Hills Is A Scenic Trail Showing Off The Best Of The Park
For an incredible trail in Ohio that can be completed in a day, check out this Hocking Hills hike that shows off the best of the park's caves and waterfalls.
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Oregon's Hands-Down Best Café Is A Woman-Owned Gem In Portland With Welcoming Vibes
Portland is famous for its coffee scene, and one of the best cafés in the state is a cute, woman-owned joint with a deliciously cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
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The 5 Best American Destinations To See Orcas In The Wild, According To Research
Orcas are some of the ocean's most enigmatic and playful creatures, and they're not as elusive as you might think. Here's where to spot them in the U.S.
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5 Santa Cruz Cafes California Locals Can't Stop Talking About
Santa Cruz is no slouch when it comes to making a cup of joe. Here are five of the best cafes in town, according to those who know the scene best.
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Pennsylvania's 5 Best Cafes In Philadelphia, According To Reviews
For coffee-lovers, finding a good cafe can make or break a trip. Luckily, we've found the five best cafes in Philly that won't let you down when you visit.
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Having Spent My Life Around New York City, This Iconic Landmark Is The Place I'd Miss Most If I Left
A New York City local lets you in on why this iconic landmark is full of nostalgia, with so much to do you could spend a whole day there.
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These New Amtrak Fares Between East Coast Cities Are Comparable To A Drink At Starbucks
Travel has become expensive, but luckily by taking advantage of new East Coast Amtrak fares, you may be able to travel for less than the cost of a coffee.
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The Best Places To See Wild Puffins Roam (That Aren't Acadia National Park)
Wildlife enthusiasts, rejoice! Maine isn't the only place to find Atlantic puffins. For an idyllic birdwatching vacation, here are five other spots to visit.
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The 5 Best Car Camping Spots For A Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
One of the best ways to experience a drive on the Parkway is to take your time. Thankfully, there are plenty of great campgrounds where you can stay the night.
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Bug Zappers Are Out — Here Are The Items Everyone Wants Instead For Bug-Free Camping
Outdoor adventures aren't just a blast for you and your friends, they're a banquet for mosquitoes. Sadly, bug zappers don't work. Here's what does.
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How To Choose The Right 'Bear Bag' For Safer Camping
Camping means sharing a space with wild animals that call it home. Using a bear bag can help you avoid unwanted encounters. Here's how to choose the right one.
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5 Camping Tips No One Tells You About, Per The Internet
Sorting out what to do on your first camping trip isn't easy. Thankfully, we've put together a list of advice from people who learned the hard way.
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Campground Etiquette Rules That Separate The Newbies From The Pros
If you're a camping newbie, you should read up on these basic campground etiquette rules that will make you a good neighbor to your fellow campers.
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California's 5 Longest Rivers Area Gorgeous Natural Landmarks Perfect For Outdoor Adventures
California's major waterways run through mountains, valleys, and desert regions, highlighting key areas known for recreation, scenery, and outdoor access.
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Nestled Along The Columbia River Gorge Is A Popular Oregon Hiking Trail Full Of Waterfalls And Mountain Views
The Columbia River Gorger has to be one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the Pacific Northwest. This hiking trail is a great example of why.
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This Scenic Connecticut Park Is A Hidden Gem With Lakeside Cliffs, Meadows, And One Of New England's Best Hikes
Connecticut is home to lush greenery and this scenic park lets you see its beauty from the top of a mountain, making this hidden gem a must-see.
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Yosemite's 5 Rare Animals That Tourists Would Be Lucky To See
From twilight forests to icy peaks, Yosemite shelters some of North America's most elusive residents, and you can spot them if you know where to look.
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The Dangerous Tip You Should Avoid At All Costs When Trying To Escape A Bee Attack
Being stung by a bee (or even dozens of bees at once) can be serious, but whatever you do, don't try this method for escaping the stinging insects.
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Road Trip Security Tips From Experienced Van-Lifers For When You Can't Leave Valuables At Home
For adventurers and remote workers embracing the camper van lifestyle, here are some expert tips for keeping your valuables safe while out on the open road.
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Delta Flight Attendant Explains Which Types Of Flights Are Likely To Be Canceled During The Government Shutdown
The government shutdown is causing canceled flights across the U.S. Here are the routes that are most likely to be canceled, according to a flight attendant.
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America's Top 5 States With The Least Amount Of Bears
If you love hiking, camping, or generally spending time outside in the American wilderness, there's a chance that you're going to encounter bears.
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America's 5 Most Popular Waters That Are Full Of Deadly Bull Sharks
These U.S. destinations attract millions for their beauty and recreation opportunities, but few realize they share the water with predatory sharks.
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Yosemite National Park's 'Riviera Of The Sierra' Is A Best-Kept Secret Beachy Lake Haven
Discover the stunning beauty of crystal-clear lake waters and majestic mountain vistas at this secret gem tucked away in Yosemite National Park.
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