School
University of Bristol - England
Expertise
Luxury Travel, Asian Destinations, Consumer Travel
- Sanjay has lived and worked in three continents, giving him a deep appreciation of the importance of travel, both personally and for humanity as a whole.
- The scope of his wanderlust isn't driven by overseas locations, he is just as excited to be exploring New York by foot or bicycle as new destinations halfway around the world.
- The outdoors are always calling him, and he enjoys taking to the water, hiking, biking, and experiencing natural environments.
Experience
Born in London, Sanjay started his journalism career as a copy editor for a newspaper in Hong Kong, followed by a stint as a television columnist for a magazine there. His work in travel media began more than two decades ago, as an editor at Condé Nast Traveler in New York. Since freelancing, he has written on travel for numerous publications in the United States and overseas. His travel wish-list — and languages that he would like to learn — gets longer every year.
Education
Sanjay received a degree in politics and economics from the University of Bristol, located in England's West Country.
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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New York
By Sanjay Surana
Just when you thought your Empire State bucket list couldn't get any bigger, a collection of beautiful lakes in upstate New York knocks at your door.
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Illinois
By Sanjay Surana
Chicago's most famous attractions are obviously a must, but what of the Windy City's many magnificent spots that most tourists seem to overlook? Let's go.
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New York
By Sanjay Surana
If you ever find yourself craving for a slice of pizza in New York, you may find the sheer number of options overwhelming. Reviews can help narrow them down.
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New York
By Sanjay Surana
New York City is full of great eats, history, and culture. Here are the best neighborhoods to visit or consider renting in if you're moving to the Big Apple.
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Michigan
By Sanjay Surana
Michigan is known as both the Great Lakes State and the Wolverine State, but its most important feature may be the uncannily magical feel of its small towns.
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Air Travel
By Sanjay Surana
Some travelers think of flight attendants as just servers on airplanes, but there's a lot to the job that people either don't know or get completely wrong.
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These picturesque beaches have a lot to offer, including some of the best scenery you've ever seen — check them out on your next trip for a fun adventure.
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Air Travel
By Sanjay Surana
The last thing anybody wants to hear while hurtling through the sky in a metal tube is a weird noise or two. We spoke to experts to soothe those fears.
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Nightlife
By Sanjay Surana
From China to the U.S., here are the biggest casinos in the world, and a look into what they deliver, from entertainment options to VIP areas.
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Travelers who see cruises as the most stress-free, relaxing experience possible may want to consider just how foul their fellow passengers' habits can be.
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There are a ton of easy ways to make the most of your Las Vegas vacation — for free. We found the nine best freebies you can indulge in during your birthday.
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United States
By Sanjay Surana
Parades, historical reenactments, and epic fireworks displays are just some of the hallmarks of these 2025 Independence Day celebrations around the U.S.
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Festivals
By Sanjay Surana
Get your tastebuds ready; in addition to sunny weather, summer promises a delectable lineup of events that showcase the finest regional produce.
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There is more to the Silver State than the bright lights of Las Vegas, and these charming Nevada towns are ready to steal your heart with breathtaking views.
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Air Travel
By Sanjay Surana
Two experts share a comprehensive list of pro tips for making those 12-plus-hour ultra-long-haul flights not just easier but maybe even enjoyable.
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New York
By Sanjay Surana
The Finger Lakes has tons of small towns, filled with arts, culture, and some of the best wineries in the state — here are some you need visit.
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From fine dining to street food, summer 2025 has no shortage of delicious foodie destinations to tantalize travelers heading to locations around the globe.
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Fiji is full of adventure and culture, from beautiful beaches to local villages, here is everything you need to do on your next visit out there.
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Budget Friendly
By Sanjay Surana
If trying to figure out how much to tip in a restaurant makes you all sorts of anxious, plan a trip to one of these fabulous gratuity-free destinations.
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There is a lot to see in Ohio, including tons of small towns filled with wineries, old museums, corn festivals, skydiving, and more for people of all ages.
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Florida is full of breathtaking, scenic trails, and we've found the best ones for both beginner and advanced hikers, plus what makes each trail so special.
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United States
By Sanjay Surana
The world's smallest birds aren't easy to find at the best of times, but you might discover a hummingbird or two at these delightful U.S. destinations.
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Fiji's beaches and waters might get most of the press, but there are plenty of magnificent adventures waiting to be discovered by hiking its interiors.
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Japan is known for its eclectic vibe and futuristic trains, but did you know about the country's best beaches? Here are some you can't miss.
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There is more to Orlando than theme parks, and we've found some of the best activities to do and places to visit, for travelers of all ages.
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For the thrill-seekers and experienced hikers, we've found some of the most dangerous trails in Arizona and outlined how to be best prepared for them.
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Air Travel
By Sanjay Surana
Private jet travel is a luxury and convenience reserved for the wealthiest people in the world. These are the top speeds of the world's fastest private jets.
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