Location
Washington, D.C.
School
The George Washington University
Expertise
Culinary Travel, Traveling on a Budget, Film Tourism
- Ana has lived on three continents and has been to over 20 countries.
- She is particularly passionate about the arts everywhere she travels, especially their music and film scenes.
- She has traveled to several different countries to attend film festivals as a member of the press.
Experience
Ana is a writer and educator who is passionate about teaching and storytelling. She has taught writing, literature, and film to teenagers and young adults and is currently a Writing Coach in an after-school center in McLean, Virginia. Ana also writes film reviews and analyses. She has studied in Peru, Belgium, the United States, and Czechia. Ana has also worked in corporate communications in the past, creating newsletters and social media content for various companies.
Education
Valeria earned her M.A. in English from The George Washington University.
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.
-
A cruise can seem like a relaxing and fun way to experience a new area of the world, but the reality of it all might be much different than you expect.
Read More
-
Avoid running into any vacation-ruining hassles by skipping this one hotel amenity that's more trouble than it's worth.
Read More
-
American tourists may not realize hidden price differences when they buy produce, meats, and cheeses some of Europe's most famous open-air and street markets
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Ana Herrera
For a more authentic travel experience, Rick Steves has some expert advice to avoid crowds and overpriced restaurants and live like the locals do on your trip.
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Ana Herrera
Tourists headed to Washington, D.C. might be caught or delayed due to this typical D.C. experience — know how to plan for it to have the best vacation.
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Ana Herrera
When traveling, don't forget to leave space in your bag for souvenirs and other keepsakes. To make room, consider nixing this list of bulky, unneeded items.
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Ana Herrera
Airline help should be a click away, but Google search results can be misleading, and even costly. Here's what travelers should know before dialing.
Read More
-
For serious birders, the off the beaten path destinations in this country are well worth it. After all, this nation is second in the world for bird diversity.
Read More
-
Budget Friendly
By Ana Herrera
This alternative to long-term car rentals in Europe is less expensive but promises you a new vehicle without hassles like deductibles and age restrictions.
Read More
-
Travel Gear
By Ana Herrera
Despite being hailed as the most comfortable option, Rick Steves believes this popular luggage style can have serious drawbacks for casual travelers.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Ana Herrera
An actor’s innocent reading material nearly got him detained by TSA during what should have been routine airport screening. Could the same happen to you?
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Ana Herrera
Looking for a cheaper hotel stay? Discover the insider move that can score you better rates, bonus amenities, and upgrades without the hassle.
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Ana Herrera
If you're short on luggage space, you may be tempted to try vacuum-sealing your clothes in plastic bags, but there are several reasons to skip this hack.
Read More
-
Tips and Hacks
By Ana Herrera
Social media is filled with clever travel tips that make our lives easier. If you want to get around the 3-1-1 liquid ban, try this TikTok-approved hack.
Read More
-
A Southern state leads the nation in toll costs, with soaring rates on highways, bridges, and tunnels driving up expenses for commuters and travelers.
Read More
-
United States
By Ana Herrera
International tourists face a new cost when applying for U.S. visas. Learn what the change means and how it may impact your travel plans to the country.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Ana Herrera
Dried coconut may seem like the perfect flight snack thanks to its light weight, shelf stability, and flavor, but it could be dangerous on a plane.
Read More
-
Oahu offers travelers spectacular hiking. This lush forest trail leads to an epic waterfall, but is easy enough for all. You can explore nearby attractions too.
Read More
-
For intrepid travelers, an excursion by boat and hike into a stunningly biodiverse jungle brings the reward of 1,000 birds, capybaras, monkeys, and much more.
Read More
-
Experience a rich cultural tapestry and walk among cartoon murals within this European capital that boasts historic museums and iconic works of art.
Read More
-
To see a breathtaking meteorological spectacle, this lake offers impressive electric shows, holding the record for the most concentrated lightning in one place.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Ana Herrera
A clever booking hack allows passengers to experience the luxury of flying on a private jet for up to 75% less, including perks like no baggage fees.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Ana Herrera
Skip D.C.’s overpriced main hub and save hundreds on flights. These two more budget-friendly alternatives typically offer better deals and shorter lines.
Read More
-
Discover the pope's summer getaway, an Italian hillside town called a 'Mediterranean Paradise' with beautiful gardens and a palace-turned-museum.
Read More
-
If you're looking to get the most out of your money when you retire, this Central American offers numerous advantages through its visa program.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Ana Herrera
Las Vegas flyers will soon get access to a speakeasy-inspired airport lounge designed for quick, upscale preflight relaxation, thanks to American Express.
Read More
-
Air Travel
By Ana Herrera
Airplanes sometimes leave white lines in the sky, called contrails. But what's the science behind why they form, and are they good for the environment?
Read More