School
Finlandia University
Expertise
Rural America, Spanish Culture, European Travel
- A bit of a nomad, he's lived in seven different cities outside the United States over the last ten years, finally settling on the Atlantic coast in northern Spain.
- He's visited nineteen European nations and written dozens of food scene reviews, always searching for the next perfect falafel.
- In 2023-2024, he traveled throughout America to spend time with each of his small-town 18 Uncles; those adventures, conversations, and 'coming together in a divided America' will all be themes of his first book, entitled "18 Uncles."
Experience
Mitch has been passionate about writing and blogging since 2018, building three successful pages into multi-thousand-follower platforms. Drawing inspiration from Anthony Bourdain, his first focused on food, his second on travel, and the third chronicles his time in rural America with his 18 uncles and large extended family. Alongside his freelance writing pursuits, he has also gained valuable experience teaching ESL throughout Spain and in Prague, combining his love for language and cultural exchange.
Education
He got a BBA in international business, was the only business major in the Advanced Creative Writing class, and studied abroad twice, one semester in Barcelona and another in San Jose, Costa Rica.
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 Mitchell Peterson
This underrated Italian city is a hidden gem, tucked in the foothills of the Alps, that offers stunning architecture and uniquely Italian brands.
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Missouri
By Mitchell Peterson
All the delights of small-town America can be found in this quaint Midwest city not too far from St. Louis, with history, golf, and good food.
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Europe
By Mitchell Peterson
Make a beeline for England's Lake District and explore a beautiful town with outdoor adventures all around, from national park camping to lake activities.
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Iowa
By Mitchell Peterson
Small-town delights fill the air in this charming Midwest city with a peaceful lake and green spaces just a short drive from Des Moines, Iowa.
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Nebraska
By Mitchell Peterson
Nebraska actually has some stunning wine country, and a small town in the center of the state has a beautiful lake and some interesting history to explore too.
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Minnesota
By Mitchell Peterson
If you're looking for a place in Minnesota that boasts tons of attractions, from outdoor adventure and unique shops to delicious restaurants, visit this city.
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Oklahoma
By Mitchell Peterson
This gorgeous small town with a famous name provides everything from lake delights to stunning state parks in the underrated state of Oklahoma.
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Minnesota
By Mitchell Peterson
A Minnesota city offers an appealing mix of outdoor adventures, historic charm, cultural attractions, and plenty of reasons to linger for a weekend.
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North Carolina
By Mitchell Peterson
This town in North Carolina is overflowing with historic buildings and local shops, and just outside of town you'll find heaps of unique outdoor adventures.
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Illinois
By Mitchell Peterson
Tucked away in the heart of Illinois, this quiet town lets visitors enjoy seasonal markets, rural hikes, and easy access to several nearby lakes.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
This Michigan city, less than an hour away from Saginaw, is the perfect destination for a getaway with historic vibes and some enthralling outdoor activities.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
It's perfect for a lazy summer afternoon, with good fishing and a quiet county park beach, but it's also a lovely weekend getaway with lake-front camping.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
Detroit's cultural gravity means its surrounding neighborhoods get overlooked. But places like this are excellent day trips from the city.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
Escape to this lake in Michigan that's just an hour from Lansing. Whether you love history, water, or camping in the woods, you'll find something to love.
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Europe
By Mitchell Peterson
As Lisbon's popularity continues its monumental rise, visitors and locals are looking for nearby getaways without the crowds. This city fits the bill.
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Canada
By Mitchell Peterson
This little-known BC town is nestled in the mountains and is perfect if you dream of a cozy mountain cabin on the water—one that you can drive anywhere.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
Not only does this city offer quick access to a lakeside state park, but it's also home to a walkable downtown with charming shops and restaurants.
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Family Friendly
By Mitchell Peterson
If you're traveling to Minnesota soon, you'll want to add this Twin City suburb to your itinerary if you want to get the most out of the state.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
For small-town charm and community events, a quaint city in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula boasts year-round festivals and a historic train depot.
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Wisconsin
By Mitchell Peterson
The magic of Wisconsin is alive and well in this charming village, a hotbed of quality fishing and other outdoor adventures.
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Wisconsin
By Mitchell Peterson
Just outside of Madison is a friendly Wisconsin village with scenic nature and parks, delicious restaurants, fun bars, events, and small-town charm.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
Though the town itself is quite small, it still manages to offer visitors a popular golf course, a sprawling lake, and a handful of historic buildings.
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Wisconsin
By Mitchell Peterson
Wisconsin is overflowing with charm, especially if you know where to look. Don't miss out on one of the state's most atmospheric and fun-filled villages.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
This crystal-clear lake in the heart of Michigan's Huron-Manistee National Forest is a fishing and camping oasis with cozy cabins and endless lakeside fun.
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Canada
By Mitchell Peterson
The Great Lakes are so stunning that they overshadow some of North America's greatest bodies of water. Make sure this Canadian lake goes on your itinerary.
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Michigan
By Mitchell Peterson
Michigan does small-town living a little differently than other places in the Midwest, and this charming, surprisingly dynamic community proves it.
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Canada
By Mitchell Peterson
Explore Cayuga, Ontario, a charming Grand River town with historic Ruthven Park, standout restaurants, hiking trails, paddling, and small-town appeal.
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