Expertise
Road Trip Playlists, Navigating Public Transportation, Vacation Itineraries
- Sara has profiled hundreds of U.S. neighborhoods for Homes.com, covering everything from real estate to public transit.
- Her travel writing has taken her across the country, where she's interviewed local politicians, tried secret menu items at restaurant openings, and gotten lost in the airport.
- When she's on the road, Sara enjoys small-town museums and ghost stories.
Experience
Sara has been writing professionally since graduating from college. Over the course of her writing career, Sara has covered everything from real estate and city planning to beauty trends and second-hand fashion. She also covered celebrity news and lifestyle products for The List, and crafted video essays for YouTube channels like The Take. While an undergraduate, Sara received honors for writing a book of single-line poems. She's also taken part in dozens of workshop groups in genres like food writing, comedy, and memoir with the goal of improving her work.
Education
Sara earned a B.A. (Hons.) in literary arts from Brown University, specializing in creative nonfiction and poetry.
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.
-
Connecticut
By Sara Caskey
If you want to retire in New England, consider that smaller town in Connecticut, for example, can be more comfortable than a national metropolis like Boston.
Read More
-
If you are looking for gorgeous golf courses and a small town with a charming vibe, this Chicago suburb is worth the train ride in from the city.
Read More
-
Not only does it offer a variety of teas, but this historic spot in Chicago features a luxurious dining area and is close to several other attractions.
Read More
-
New Hampshire
By Sara Caskey
Head to this charming slice of quintessential Americana that's tucked on the largest lake in New Hampshire, with plenty of opportunities for boating.
Read More
-
Connecticut
By Sara Caskey
Willimantic offers the quintessential Northeast college town look, with vibrant foliage, historic architecture, ivy-covered walls, and small-town vibes.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Sara Caskey
Settled by the Swedish in 1644, this Pennsylvania city is by far older than Philadelphia. Check out its historical sites, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Read More
-
Pennsylvania
By Sara Caskey
Just a 25 minute train ride from Philly, this retiree-friendly Pennsylvana suburb is full of history, vibrant festivals, unique architecture, and travel to-dos.
Read More
-
Massachusetts
By Sara Caskey
This vibrant Massachusetts town halfway between Providence and Boston along Interstate 95 is home to Gillette Stadium, cranberry bogs, and many local spots.
Read More
-
Budget Friendly
By Sara Caskey
Antiquing is one of the many reasons to travel off the beaten path. There are many hidden gems across the U.S., but here's where you'll find bonafide treasures.
Read More
-
Airport food doesn't have the best reputation, but these amazing restaurants and food spots in the Dallas Forth Worth International Airport have lots of fans.
Read More
-
Planning a Texas Gulf Coast getaway with family? These top-rated beachfront Airbnbs offer private docks, beach access, and stunning ocean views.
Read More
-
United States
By Sara Caskey
Looking for the best Lake Superior cabins? Explore top-rated Airbnb rentals in Michigan, Wisconsin, and more with lake views, saunas and private beaches.
Read More
-
The Rocky Mountains offer some gorgeous views and challenging hikes as well as relaxing hot springs. While exploring, you'll need a place to stay.
Read More
-
Visiting one of the United States' best national parks is perfect for a vacation road trip, and you can stay close to many parks while staying within budget.
Read More
-
Restaurants
By Sara Caskey
Feeling hungry? These are the best restaurants on the Gulf Coast, from Cajun and Creole classics to waterfront seafood spots with unbeatable views.
Read More
-
United States
By Sara Caskey
These are the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, chosen using reviews, ratings, and Guy Fieri favorites.
Read More
-
Restaurants
By Sara Caskey
If you're planning on taking an epic road trip across the American Southwest, be sure to plan a few pit stops to some fan-favorite eateries along the way.
Read More
-
Some places around the United States are like stepping back in time, from former Gold Rush boomtowns to cities that harken back to the Revolutionary War.
Read More
-
Budget Friendly
By Sara Caskey
New England has the most expensive places to live in the United States, but some pockets are more affordable than most and come with benefits for retirees.
Read More
-
United States
By Sara Caskey
Thinking of relocating to a new destination? These 10 up-and-coming U.S. cities are booming with jobs, housing growth and livability heading into 2026.
Read More
-
Looking for real Chicago deep-dish? We rounded up the top spots using traveler reviews, expert opinions, and local guides to help you plan your trip.
Read More
-
United States
By Sara Caskey
Looking for affordable, remote-friendly U.S. cities? Explore top picks with fast internet, coworking spaces, great culture, and thriving WFH communities.
Read More
-
United States
By Sara Caskey
Running a marathon is an intense challenge. Finding the best marathons for beginners, where you can also vacation before and after, shouldn't be.
Read More
-
Massachusetts
By Sara Caskey
Just 40 miles north of Boston, this quaint Massachusetts town is home to the country's oldest boat shop and boasts stunning waterways and a charming downtown.
Read More
-
The town known as the "Jewel of the Maine Coast" hosts impressive art galleries, restaurants serving delicious foods, and plenty of New England coastal charm.
Read More
-
Explore the quaint shops, wonderful restaurants, incredible coastal New England scenery, and two Maine rivers at this small town near the coast.
Read More
-
United States
By Sara Caskey
Whether you're in a city or the suburbs, your neighborhood makes a big difference. Depending on your budget these neighborhoods are deemed the most desirable.
Read More