Location
Phuket, Thailand
School
Appalachian State University
Expertise
Japan Destinations, European Culture, Solo Female Travel
- Sam has visited 12 countries and currently lives in Thailand, her birthplace.
- She has been studying Japanese since she was a child and has traveled to Japan eleven times.
- Sam speaks four languages (English and Thai fluently, Japanese and French conversationally), which has been an advantage for her adventures around Europe and Japan.
Experience
Sam has been a freelance illustrator, designer, and content creator for the past five years. She began a career in marketing and social media for a luxury hotel in Thailand, which sparked her interest in travel writing. After taking two years off to spend time traveling around Europe and Japan, Sam started her own personal travel blog to write about her experiences, offering tips and recommendations for other travelers to more easily plan their own trips. When she is not writing, Sam enjoys watching historical dramas like Downton Abbey, reading books, going to pub quizzes, and karaoke.
Education
Sam received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design from Appalachian State University in North Carolina, with a minor in communications.
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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This city is called the "Beer Capital of Europe" thanks to its long brewing tradition, beer culture, and plenty of taverns and beer gardens to grab a pint.
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West Virginia
By Sam Scott
This West Virginia town steeped in Revolutionary War history draws visitors for its historic sites, river activities, and spine-chilling museum downtown.
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This adorable town near Charlotte, North Carolina is often overlooked despite its excellent eateries, picturesque winery, and plenty of amazing parks.
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This lovely suburb of Charlottesville, Virginia is also home to a sparkling lake, hiking trails, easy access to the city's downtown, and fantastic eateries.
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West Virginia
By Sam Scott
Step into America's past with a visit to this colonial town featuring historic sites, charming accommodations, and scenic outdoor activities.
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This once-pristine tropical paradise has been transformed into a crowded nightmare where speedboats outnumber fish and litter has replaced coral reefs.
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This charming lakeside town offers waterfront fun, nature trails, and outdoor adventures far away from Florida's most crowded tourist destinations.
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Escape crowded tourist traps for South Carolina's hidden coastal gems where pristine beaches meet charming villages and unforgettable seafood delights.
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There are gardens, and then there are lush, labyrinthine masterpieces that transport you to another world. This English tourist destination is the latter.
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This charming city in Illinois is an underrated destination with Dutch windmills, beautiful scenery, and historic architecture. Here's what you need to know.
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This windswept English coastal town features dramatic ruins, clifftop graveyards, haunting landscapes, and centuries of history just waiting to be explored.
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Hidden in the Appalachian foothills in North Carolina is a living museum with historic buildings, traditional activities, and folk music performances.
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This secluded destination along North Carolina’s glistening coastline features untamed beauty, fascinating history, and unforgettable natural wonders.
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This Virginia mountain town sits between two stunning ranges, offering outdoor adventures, historic charm, and farm-fresh dining experiences to boot.
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Along the famous Blues Highway lies a charming Mississippi town brimming with 19th-century churches, local eateries, and rich Civil War history.
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Featuring 60 volcanoes and plenty of hydrothermal features within its borders, this national park is as explosively beautiful as any other in the country.
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With untouched beaches, historic charm, and five-star luxury, this magical Florida destination is the perfect coastal getaway without the crowds.
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This oceanside town in North Carolina is perfect for relaxing and enjoying fresh seafood, leisurely beach walks, and family-friendly activities.
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This charming Midwest town in Wisconsin feels like stepping into the Swiss Alps, complete with chalets, alpine brews, and authentic European charm.
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This Colorado town near Steamboat Springs is an outdoor playground for ski enthusiasts year round, especially if they want to soak in geothermal waters.
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One of the U.K.'s most beautiful beaches is a secluded hidden gem along a cliff-lined coastline brimming with scenic walks and postcard-worthy views.
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Hidden in the shadow of Mount Rainier is a tiny destination with abundant hiking, quick access to the White River, and scenic Pacific Northwest beauty.
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Massachusetts
By Sam Scott
Just outside of the Berkshires lies a small Massachusetts locale that embodies the best New England has to offer travelers looking for a relaxing vacation.
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This historic site in New York City is the largest mausoleum in North America and is the beautiful final resting place of a famous U.S. historical figure.
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If you're looking for a secluded beach to comb for seashells, look no further than Shell Island. This delightful location has amazing views and fun activities.
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Love to snorkel? Consider this picturesque set of islands for your next trip, where you'll be able to spot stunning coral reefs, active sea life, and lots more.
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Admire dazzling architecture in Tuscany's renowned cities, explore dreamy hill towns, visit ancient monasteries, and more on this classic Italian road trip.
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