Location
New York, New York
School
School Of Visual Arts
Expertise
Budget Travel, Ecotourism, Exploring History Through Travel
- In 2024, Mina went on a multi-city tour of Japan exploring local coffee culture.
- Living just outside New York City, Mina often spends her weekdays in bustling Manhattan and her weekends exploring remote hiking trails.
- Mina enjoys traveling to see animals in their native environments, from birdwatching in Olympic National Park to spotting Philippine long-tailed macaques by the beach.
Experience
Since 2023, Mina Elwell has written guides on Static Media's travel brands Explore and Islands for other travelers looking to explore new destinations through those passions. She has also written articles focusing on history, folklore, and nature. Mina is the author of several graphic novels, including "InferNoct," published by Scout Comics, and "Hellicious," published by SBI Press. Her short fiction has been featured in independent anthologies like The Haunted Box and the Eisner-winning Puerto Rico Strong. Currently, she is working on several upcoming horror comics and a multiple-choice game.
Education
Mina Elwell graduated with a BFA from the School of Visual Arts.
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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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Some of the biggest state and national parks will draw massive crowds, so it's better to focus on smaller options like this destination with a unique beach.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Nobody likes it when their flight is delayed, but in the summertime, there's a specific time of day when that's especially likely to happen.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
A well-traveled stretch in Scotland provides a rich look at the area's history, along with a wealth of shops, food, and memorable activities.
By Mina Elwell
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Though an Instaworthy spot, even local guides don't consider hiking in this highly-photographed Utah canyon worth the risk in certain conditions.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
The Caribbean is known for its beaches, but with so many islands, how do you choose? We talked exclusively with a travel expert to find out the best one.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Brats are taking over the world, thanks to Charli XCX! Luckily, you don't have to leave the country to live your best brat life for the summer.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
With the growing prevalence of virtual payments, it seems cash is no longer king. In fact, travelers will struggle to use it in this country.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
The late, great culinary and travel expert Anthony Bourdain is still trusted by many for restaurant recommendations, especially one spot in Paris.
By Mina Elwell
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It's easy to think that scams and identity theft can only happen to someone else. But vulnerabilities can be created with a very simple mistake.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
When summertime rolls around, don't head to touristy destinations like Miami or Cancun - visit this stunning, under-the-radar national park instead.
By Mina Elwell
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There are few parks in the U.S. as diverse and fulfilling as this quiet Utah spot full of adventure, immense natural beauty, and magnificent wildlife.
By Mina Elwell
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When it comes to the East Coast’s best state and national parks, one spot stands out for historic river and a bold combination of beauty and adventure.
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Very few people can tell you the best places to visit quite like travel expert Samantha Brown - she also knows two destinations you should skip, too.
By Mina Elwell
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American national parks offer a lot more than outstanding natural landscapes and gems. At these sites, you will encounter starry nights like no other.
By Mina Elwell
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The Grand Canyon gets all the credit for dramatic views in the Southwest. But that can work to your advantage when visiting this national park in Colorado.
By Mina Elwell
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Livestreams and a yearly contest have popularized an Alaska national park that offers visitors and internet viewers a unique wildlife observation opportunity.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Looking to explore as much of France as possible while adhering to your budget? Expert Rick Steves has some great tips for traveling by train.
By Mina Elwell
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Cruise passengers can face a number of small catastrophes after boarding the ship. Prepare for the worst by taking Samantha Brown's simple but effective advice.
By Mina Elwell
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An Alaska observatory offers unparalleled views of the wild brown and black bears attracted to the nearby stream that fills with salmon during peak season.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
French food expert Laura Calder offers exclusive insight into the crucial but not-so-obvious requirements for navigating France's dining scene.
By Mina Elwell
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Many campers swear by this common cooking ingredient for repelling bugs, especially mosquitos. However, research may not support the anecdotal evidence.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
There is one common food myth many people tend to believe when visiting France, but according to our French food expert, it's exactly that - a myth.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
Ear pain and popping can cause major discomfort for airplane passengers. A simple but effective strategy, demonstrated on TikTok, may provide potential relief.
By Mina Elwell
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Travel Guides
By Mina Elwell
New York offers everything from monuments to adventure, but did you know the Empire State is also home to a thrilling, record-setting kaleidoscope?
By Mina Elwell
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Destinations
By Mina Elwell
Road trips aren't just a U.S. thing. In fact, this trio of scenic European nations might be the best in the world for safely exploring by automobile.
By Mina Elwell
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For many travelers, Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime destination, but you should consider a similar place for the same thrills and fewer people.
By Mina Elwell
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Are you tired of the concrete jungle? Leave LA behind with a quick car ride that leads to family-friendly hiking trails and beautiful waterfalls.
By Mina Elwell
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