Expertise
Historic Destinations, Haunted Sites, Theme Parks
- Steve first experienced international travel in 2018 when he visited Ireland for two weeks and discovered the beauty of immersing oneself in a new culture and exploring the historic ruins seemingly around every corner.
- In 2019, he launched a podcast that blended his passion for historic locations with the alleged paranormal experiences that accompany them.
- His most recent travels took him to Lisbon, Portugal, where he found inspiration in the county's discovery-fueled past and the delicious pastries offered on every corner.
Experience
Ever since he left his childhood home near St. Louis, MO, Steve has sought adventure. He relocated to Florida shortly after college and has had the opportunity to write about exciting attractions, beautiful destinations, and the people behind them. He's written features for print publications like Watermark Out News, Instinct Magazine, and Go. He eventually followed his passion for history and began interviewing proprietors of historic tourist destinations throughout the United States, in hopes that it would encourage others to rediscover the past within their hometowns. In 2024, his fictional short story "Milkweed" was included in the anthology Phantom Menagerie alongside the works of 15 other authors. He has worked as a journalist, PR specialist, and podcast host, and is always looking for his next encounter with history.
Education
Steve has a bachelor's degree in English from The University of Missouri in Columbia.
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.
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South Carolina
By Steve Blanchard
Charles Pinckney is America's "Forgotten Founder." However, this South Carolina national historic site commemorates his legacy with exhibits, trails, and more.
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The 72-degree waters of Troy Spring State Park hide a Civil War ship, swimming turtles, and more. This ethereal Florida destination belongs on your bucket list!
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