<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
    xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
    xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
    xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
    xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
    xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
    xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
            xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/"
        
    >
    <channel>
        <title>Islands - Expert Travel Info &amp; Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, &amp; Everything In Between</title>
        <atom:link href="https://www.islands.com/category/north-carolina/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
        <link>https://www.islands.com/</link>
        <description>Islands covers everything you want to do and anywhere you want to travel with expert info, in-depth guides, local tips, and more.</description>
        <lastBuildDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2026 03:45:00 +0000</lastBuildDate>
        <language>en-US</language>
        <sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
        <sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
                                <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Charlotte And Asheville Is North Carolina's Retirement Gem With Affordability, Mountain Trails, And Lake Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2224374/rutherford-county-nestled-between-charlotte-asheville-north-carolina-retirement-escape-affordable-living-mountain-trails-lake-fun/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 14:25:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Karla Demery)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2224374/rutherford-county-nestled-between-charlotte-asheville-north-carolina-retirement-escape-affordable-living-mountain-trails-lake-fun/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Forget the busy cities. This North Carolina county is perfect for retirees looking for a budget vacation full of outdoor activities, history, and great eats.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Forget the busy cities. This North Carolina county is perfect for retirees looking for a budget vacation full of outdoor activities, history, and great eats.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-charlotte-and-asheville-is-north-carolinas-retirement-gem-with-affordability-mountain-trails-and-lake-fun/intro-1785177724.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-charlotte-and-asheville-is-north-carolinas-retirement-gem-with-affordability-mountain-trails-and-lake-fun/l-intro-1785177724.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-charlotte-and-asheville-is-north-carolinas-retirement-gem-with-affordability-mountain-trails-and-lake-fun/l-intro-1785177724.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="493127"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Greensboro And The Tennessee Border Is A Beautiful Lake With Fishing, Swimming, And Mountain Views]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2224229/w-kerr-scott-reservoir-between-greensboro-tennessee-border-beautiful-lake-fishing-swimming-mountain-views/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 11:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Kirtana Menon)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2224229/w-kerr-scott-reservoir-between-greensboro-tennessee-border-beautiful-lake-fishing-swimming-mountain-views/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[The Blue Ridge mountains are among the most visited  North Carolina hot spots, but this beautiful lake is among its hidden gems worth seeking out.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[The Blue Ridge mountains are among the most visited  North Carolina hot spots, but this beautiful lake is among its hidden gems worth seeking out.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/w-kerr-scott-reservoir-between-greensboro-tennessee-border-beautiful-lake-fishing-swimming-mountain-views/intro-1785244438.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/w-kerr-scott-reservoir-between-greensboro-tennessee-border-beautiful-lake-fishing-swimming-mountain-views/l-intro-1785244438.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/w-kerr-scott-reservoir-between-greensboro-tennessee-border-beautiful-lake-fishing-swimming-mountain-views/l-intro-1785244438.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="359532"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Just Over An Hour From Greensboro Is North Carolina's Scenic Lake With Camping, Fishing, And Trails]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2221773/hyco-lake-over-hour-greensboro-north-carolina-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Nally Preseault)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Water Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2221773/hyco-lake-over-hour-greensboro-north-carolina-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This park, tucked near the North Carolina-Virginia border, highlights a pristine lake that&#39;s perfect for boating with pontoon rentals and a public boat ramp.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This park, tucked near the North Carolina-Virginia border, highlights a pristine lake that&#39;s perfect for boating with pontoon rentals and a public boat ramp.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/hyco-lake-over-hour-greensboro-north-carolina-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/intro-1785172287.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/hyco-lake-over-hour-greensboro-north-carolina-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/l-intro-1785172287.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/hyco-lake-over-hour-greensboro-north-carolina-scenic-camping-fishing-trails/l-intro-1785172287.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="354821"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Charlotte's Fast-Growing Suburb Is A Charming North Carolina Town With Parks, Casual Eats, And Easy City Access]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2219860/harrisburg-north-carolina-growing-suburb-charming-town-parks-eats-city-access/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 15:25:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Rory Buccheri)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Arts and Culture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charlotte, North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2219860/harrisburg-north-carolina-growing-suburb-charming-town-parks-eats-city-access/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[While it may seem like a sleepy suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, this city offers a wide range of scenic parks, dining options, and fun entertainment.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[While it may seem like a sleepy suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, this city offers a wide range of scenic parks, dining options, and fun entertainment.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/charlottes-fast-growing-suburb-is-a-charming-north-carolina-town-with-parks-casual-eats-and-easy-city-access/intro-1784652782.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/charlottes-fast-growing-suburb-is-a-charming-north-carolina-town-with-parks-casual-eats-and-easy-city-access/l-intro-1784652782.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/charlottes-fast-growing-suburb-is-a-charming-north-carolina-town-with-parks-casual-eats-and-easy-city-access/l-intro-1784652782.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="830612"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Outside Greensboro Near Virginia's Border Is A Pristine Lake Park With Cabins, Fishing, Camping, And Trails]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2221086/mayo-lake-park-outside-greensboro-near-virginia-border-pristine-fishing-camping-trails/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 25 Jul 2026 22:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Water Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2221086/mayo-lake-park-outside-greensboro-near-virginia-border-pristine-fishing-camping-trails/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This lesser-known getaway near the North Carolina-Virginia border is the perfect place to get out on the water with a beautiful lake and watercraft rentals.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This lesser-known getaway near the North Carolina-Virginia border is the perfect place to get out on the water with a beautiful lake and watercraft rentals.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/mayo-lake-park-outside-greensboro-near-virginia-border-pristine-fishing-camping-trails/intro-1785167196.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/mayo-lake-park-outside-greensboro-near-virginia-border-pristine-fishing-camping-trails/l-intro-1785167196.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/mayo-lake-park-outside-greensboro-near-virginia-border-pristine-fishing-camping-trails/l-intro-1785167196.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="259174"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Nestled Between Greensboro And Charlotte Is North Carolina's Scenic Park With A Carousel, Camping, And Fishing]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2221058/dan-nicholas-park-between-greensboro-charlotte-north-carolina-scenic-carousel-camping-fishing/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 25 Jul 2026 14:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2221058/dan-nicholas-park-between-greensboro-charlotte-north-carolina-scenic-carousel-camping-fishing/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[From camping and fishing on the lake to sluicing for gemstones and riding a vintage carousel, this park is a favorite North Carolina recreation area.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[From camping and fishing on the lake to sluicing for gemstones and riding a vintage carousel, this park is a favorite North Carolina recreation area.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/nestled-between-greensboro-and-charlotte-is-north-carolinas-scenic-park-with-a-carousel-camping-and-fishing/intro-1784745711.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/nestled-between-greensboro-and-charlotte-is-north-carolinas-scenic-park-with-a-carousel-camping-and-fishing/l-intro-1784745711.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/nestled-between-greensboro-and-charlotte-is-north-carolinas-scenic-park-with-a-carousel-camping-and-fishing/l-intro-1784745711.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="693448"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Greensboro And Fayetteville Is North Carolina's Safari Experience With Unique, Interactive Attractions]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2218391/aloha-safari-park-between-greensboro-fayetteville-north-carolina-experience-unique/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Anna Robinson)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Family Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2218391/aloha-safari-park-between-greensboro-fayetteville-north-carolina-experience-unique/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Experience an exotic wildlife safari in the heart of North Carolina at this drive-thru, walk-thru zoo with giraffes, monkeys, zebras, and many other animals.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Experience an exotic wildlife safari in the heart of North Carolina at this drive-thru, walk-thru zoo with giraffes, monkeys, zebras, and many other animals.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/aloha-safari-park-between-greensboro-fayetteville-north-carolina-experience-unique/intro-1784644208.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/aloha-safari-park-between-greensboro-fayetteville-north-carolina-experience-unique/l-intro-1784644208.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/aloha-safari-park-between-greensboro-fayetteville-north-carolina-experience-unique/l-intro-1784644208.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="571823"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Greensboro And Charlotte Is 'The Heart Of America' With A Famous Festival And Small Community]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2218760/faith-township-between-greensboro-charlotte-heart-america-famous-festival-small-community/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 13:25:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Karla Demery)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Festivals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2218760/faith-township-between-greensboro-charlotte-heart-america-famous-festival-small-community/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Looking for that small-town feel with charming shops and food, but also want to experience a fun festival? You won&#39;t want to miss this North Carolina town.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Looking for that small-town feel with charming shops and food, but also want to experience a fun festival? You won&#39;t want to miss this North Carolina town.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/faith-township-between-greensboro-charlotte-heart-america-famous-festival-small-community/intro-1784643398.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/faith-township-between-greensboro-charlotte-heart-america-famous-festival-small-community/l-intro-1784643398.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/faith-township-between-greensboro-charlotte-heart-america-famous-festival-small-community/l-intro-1784643398.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="277334"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[The Best Fried Fish Spots Worth Visiting In Every State]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2218814/best-fried-fish-joints-worth-visiting-every-state/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Rosheda Stephenson)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hawaii]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Michigan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ohio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Carolina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Washington]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Colorado]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[California]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Florida]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Massachusetts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Texas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alaska]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Oregon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Utah]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Georgia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Idaho]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Delaware]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pennsylvania]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Minnesota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Arkansas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Montana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Jersey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indiana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alabama]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rhode Island]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mississippi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Hampshire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Virginia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Louisiana]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[West Virginia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Connecticut]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Illinois]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wisconsin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Mexico]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vermont]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tennessee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maryland]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kansas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iowa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kentucky]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Missouri]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nebraska]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Dakota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Dakota]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Oklahoma]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wyoming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Las Vegas, Nevada]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New York City, New York]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Phoenix, Arizona]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2218814/best-fried-fish-joints-worth-visiting-every-state/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Seafood lovers can rejoice that every restaurant on our list ranks highly on Google and offers crispy, golden-brown treats from the sea (and lots of sides).]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Seafood lovers can rejoice that every restaurant on our list ranks highly on Google and offers crispy, golden-brown treats from the sea (and lots of sides).<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-best-fried-fish-spots-worth-visiting-in-every-state/intro-1784564763.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-best-fried-fish-spots-worth-visiting-in-every-state/l-intro-1784564763.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-best-fried-fish-spots-worth-visiting-in-every-state/l-intro-1784564763.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="372277"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Charlotte's Underrated Urban Gem Is A Hidden Nature Preserve With A Wetland Bog And Scenic Trails]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2218071/ribbonwalk-nature-preserve-charlotte-north-carolina-underrated-urban-gem-scenic-trails-wetland/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 13:25:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Kristin Conard)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charlotte, North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2218071/ribbonwalk-nature-preserve-charlotte-north-carolina-underrated-urban-gem-scenic-trails-wetland/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This peaceful North Carolina escape invites visitors to wander scenic woodland trails, see a wetland bog, spot remarkable wildlife, and enjoy a quiet retreat.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This peaceful North Carolina escape invites visitors to wander scenic woodland trails, see a wetland bog, spot remarkable wildlife, and enjoy a quiet retreat.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/charlottes-underrated-urban-gem-is-a-hidden-nature-preserve-with-a-wetland-bog-and-scenic-trails/intro-1784367413.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/charlottes-underrated-urban-gem-is-a-hidden-nature-preserve-with-a-wetland-bog-and-scenic-trails/l-intro-1784367413.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/charlottes-underrated-urban-gem-is-a-hidden-nature-preserve-with-a-wetland-bog-and-scenic-trails/l-intro-1784367413.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="559389"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[The 10 Best Nearby State Parks You Can Easily Get To From Greensboro, North Carolina]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2216384/best-nearby-state-parks-can-easily-get-greensboro-north-carolina/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sun, 19 Jul 2026 21:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Stephen Hanson)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[National and State Parks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2216384/best-nearby-state-parks-can-easily-get-greensboro-north-carolina/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[If you&#39;re looking for a little escape from the hustle and bustle of glorious Greensboro, these stunning state parks are just a short drive away.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you&#39;re looking for a little escape from the hustle and bustle of glorious Greensboro, these stunning state parks are just a short drive away.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-10-best-nearby-state-parks-you-can-easily-get-to-from-greensboro-north-carolina/intro-1784189315.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-10-best-nearby-state-parks-you-can-easily-get-to-from-greensboro-north-carolina/l-intro-1784189315.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-10-best-nearby-state-parks-you-can-easily-get-to-from-greensboro-north-carolina/l-intro-1784189315.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="732658"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Forget Florida, Retire To North Carolina's Coastal Oasis With Islands, Good Weather, And Outdoor Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2215420/brunswick-county-forget-florida-retire-north-carolina-coastal-oasis-islands-good-weather-outdoor-fun/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 18 Jul 2026 10:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Makayla Maxwell)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2215420/brunswick-county-forget-florida-retire-north-carolina-coastal-oasis-islands-good-weather-outdoor-fun/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This county has miles of gorgeous Atlantic beaches, miles of Intracoastal Waterway for boating adventures, golf courses, and welcoming towns to explore.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This county has miles of gorgeous Atlantic beaches, miles of Intracoastal Waterway for boating adventures, golf courses, and welcoming towns to explore.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/brunswick-county-forget-florida-retire-north-carolina-coastal-oasis-islands-good-weather-outdoor-fun/intro-1784553324.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/brunswick-county-forget-florida-retire-north-carolina-coastal-oasis-islands-good-weather-outdoor-fun/l-intro-1784553324.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/brunswick-county-forget-florida-retire-north-carolina-coastal-oasis-islands-good-weather-outdoor-fun/l-intro-1784553324.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="437441"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[North Carolina's Charming Raleigh Suburb Is A Fast-Growing Town With River Views And A Historic Downtown]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2213327/clayton-north-carolina-raleigh-suburb-charming-fast-growing-town-river-views-historic-downtown/</link>
                    <pubDate>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 01:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Karla Demery)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Travel Guides]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Adventure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2213327/clayton-north-carolina-raleigh-suburb-charming-fast-growing-town-river-views-historic-downtown/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Explore a delightful North Carolina suburb with easy access to outdoor adventure to go with a historic downtown and charming community spirit.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Explore a delightful North Carolina suburb with easy access to outdoor adventure to go with a historic downtown and charming community spirit.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/north-carolinas-charming-raleigh-suburb-is-a-fast-growing-town-with-river-views-and-a-historic-downtown/intro-1783938471.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/north-carolinas-charming-raleigh-suburb-is-a-fast-growing-town-with-river-views-and-a-historic-downtown/l-intro-1783938471.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/north-carolinas-charming-raleigh-suburb-is-a-fast-growing-town-with-river-views-and-a-historic-downtown/l-intro-1783938471.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="820682"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Between Charlotte And Greensboro Is A North Carolina Gem With Main Street Charm And Nearby Lake Fun]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2212523/between-charlotte-greensboro-landis-north-carolina-charm-nearby-lake-fun/</link>
                    <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2026 13:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Anna Smith)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Water Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Restaurants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2212523/between-charlotte-greensboro-landis-north-carolina-charm-nearby-lake-fun/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[North Carolina is home to a wide array of small towns, including this destination that has a historic main street. Plus, you&#39;ll be just a few miles from a lake.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[North Carolina is home to a wide array of small towns, including this destination that has a historic main street. Plus, you&#39;ll be just a few miles from a lake.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-charlotte-and-greensboro-is-a-north-carolina-gem-with-main-street-charm-and-nearby-lake-fun/intro-1783705345.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-charlotte-and-greensboro-is-a-north-carolina-gem-with-main-street-charm-and-nearby-lake-fun/l-intro-1783705345.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/between-charlotte-and-greensboro-is-a-north-carolina-gem-with-main-street-charm-and-nearby-lake-fun/l-intro-1783705345.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="328294"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Sandwiched Between Greensboro And Durham Is A Charming City With A Historic, Walkable Downtown]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2212098/graham-north-carolina-sandwiched-between-charming-city-historic-walkable-downtown/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 21:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Karla Demery)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2212098/graham-north-carolina-sandwiched-between-charming-city-historic-walkable-downtown/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This underrated town in North Carolina is a short drive from Greensboro or Durham, with restaurants, shops, a historic museum, and a charming cinema.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This underrated town in North Carolina is a short drive from Greensboro or Durham, with restaurants, shops, a historic museum, and a charming cinema.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/sandwiched-between-greensboro-and-durham-is-a-charming-city-with-a-historic-walkable-downtown/intro-1783662049.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/sandwiched-between-greensboro-and-durham-is-a-charming-city-with-a-historic-walkable-downtown/l-intro-1783662049.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/sandwiched-between-greensboro-and-durham-is-a-charming-city-with-a-historic-walkable-downtown/l-intro-1783662049.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="449216"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Forget Florida, Retire To This Southeast Gem With Shops, Historic Charm, And Picturesque Trails]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2212724/forget-florida-retire-biltmore-forest-north-carolina-southeast-gem-shops-historic-landmarks-hiking-trails/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 17:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Jen Theriault)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2212724/forget-florida-retire-biltmore-forest-north-carolina-southeast-gem-shops-historic-landmarks-hiking-trails/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[The prestigious history, noteworthy trails, and fun shopping centers that define this Southeast town make for a gem of a retirement getaway.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[The prestigious history, noteworthy trails, and fun shopping centers that define this Southeast town make for a gem of a retirement getaway.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/forget-florida-retire-to-this-southeast-gem-with-shops-historic-charm-and-picturesque-trails/intro-1783715356.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/forget-florida-retire-to-this-southeast-gem-with-shops-historic-charm-and-picturesque-trails/l-intro-1783715356.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/forget-florida-retire-to-this-southeast-gem-with-shops-historic-charm-and-picturesque-trails/l-intro-1783715356.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="406245"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[Sandwiched Between Greensboro And Durham Is A Growing City With A Walkable Downtown And Outlet Shops]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2209596/mebane-north-carolina-sandwiched-between-growing-city-walkable-downtown/</link>
                    <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 13:25:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Joe Orovic)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Family Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Budget Friendly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2209596/mebane-north-carolina-sandwiched-between-growing-city-walkable-downtown/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Lovingly called &#34;the biggest little town on Earth,&#34; this ever-growing community is the place to go for name-brand outlet shopping and historic beauty.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Lovingly called &#34;the biggest little town on Earth,&#34; this ever-growing community is the place to go for name-brand outlet shopping and historic beauty.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/mebane-north-carolina-sandwiched-between-growing-city-walkable-downtown/intro-1783972434.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/mebane-north-carolina-sandwiched-between-growing-city-walkable-downtown/l-intro-1783972434.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/mebane-north-carolina-sandwiched-between-growing-city-walkable-downtown/l-intro-1783972434.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="533490"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[The East Coast's Most Gorgeous High-Elevation Lakes That Aren't In The Adirondacks]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2212166/most-gorgeous-high-elevation-lakes-east-coast-not-adirondacks/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sun, 12 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Kala Barba-Court)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[National and State Parks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hiking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Camping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Water Sports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Hampshire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vermont]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maryland]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2212166/most-gorgeous-high-elevation-lakes-east-coast-not-adirondacks/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[Discover gorgeous waters sitting thousands of feet in the air at these East Coast lakes, from a North Carolina reservoir to a Maryland freshwater body.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Discover gorgeous waters sitting thousands of feet in the air at these East Coast lakes, from a North Carolina reservoir to a Maryland freshwater body.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-east-coasts-most-gorgeous-high-elevation-lakes-that-arent-in-the-adirondacks/intro-1783685715.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-east-coasts-most-gorgeous-high-elevation-lakes-that-arent-in-the-adirondacks/l-intro-1783685715.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/the-east-coasts-most-gorgeous-high-elevation-lakes-that-arent-in-the-adirondacks/l-intro-1783685715.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="572591"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[North Carolina's 'Little French Town In The Uwharries' Is A Walkable Mountain Gateway Full Of European Charm]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2211180/badin-north-carolina-town-walkability-european-charm-little-french-town-uwharries-gateway/</link>
                    <pubDate>Sat, 11 Jul 2026 18:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Travel Guides]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2211180/badin-north-carolina-town-walkability-european-charm-little-french-town-uwharries-gateway/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[This charming North Carolina destination has European-inspired streets, lakeside scenery, and a walkable historic district, making for an enchanting escape.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[This charming North Carolina destination has European-inspired streets, lakeside scenery, and a walkable historic district, making for an enchanting escape.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/north-carolinas-little-french-town-in-the-uwharries-is-a-walkable-mountain-gateway-full-of-european-charm/intro-1783578013.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/north-carolinas-little-french-town-in-the-uwharries-is-a-walkable-mountain-gateway-full-of-european-charm/l-intro-1783578013.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/north-carolinas-little-french-town-in-the-uwharries-is-a-walkable-mountain-gateway-full-of-european-charm/l-intro-1783578013.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="392575"/>
                                    </item>
                                    <item>
                    <title><![CDATA[South Carolina's Fast-Growing Charlotte Suburb Has A Bustling Downtown, Great Parks, And Southern Charm]]></title>
                    <link>https://www.islands.com/2210027/fort-mill-one-charlotte-fastest-growing-suburbs-bustling-downtown-parks-southern-charm/</link>
                    <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:45:00 +0000</pubDate>
                                            <author>staff@islands.com (Rachel Means)</author>
                                                            		<category><![CDATA[Travel Guides]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[North Carolina]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Carolina]]></category>
                    <guid>https://www.islands.com/2210027/fort-mill-one-charlotte-fastest-growing-suburbs-bustling-downtown-parks-southern-charm/</guid>
                                            <description><![CDATA[From delicious chicken sandwiches to outdoor spaces that feel remote, you can&#39;t really go wrong with a 30-minute drive across the Carolina border to this gem.]]></description>

                                                                                    <content:encoded><![CDATA[From delicious chicken sandwiches to outdoor spaces that feel remote, you can&#39;t really go wrong with a 30-minute drive across the Carolina border to this gem.<p><img src="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/south-carolinas-fast-growing-charlotte-suburb-has-a-bustling-downtown-great-parks-and-southern-charm/intro-1783454094.jpg" /></p>]]></content:encoded>
                                                                                                                    <media:thumbnail url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/south-carolinas-fast-growing-charlotte-suburb-has-a-bustling-downtown-great-parks-and-southern-charm/l-intro-1783454094.jpg"/>
                        <enclosure url="https://www.islands.com/img/gallery/south-carolinas-fast-growing-charlotte-suburb-has-a-bustling-downtown-great-parks-and-southern-charm/l-intro-1783454094.jpg" type="image/jpg" length="505324"/>
                                    </item>
                        </channel>

</rss>