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Katie Hammel

Katie Hammel a travel writer and editor based in San Francisco. She been working in the travel industry for a decade and has written for travel publications including BBC Travel and Travel + Leisure. Previously, she was the content manager and blog editor at Viator (a TripAdvisor company) and the Iceland-based startup TripCreator.

Riding the Trans-Siberian Railroad

The Trans-Siberian railroad connects Moscow with Mongolia and China, stretching across European Russia into Asia. The route was completed in 1913 and spans nearly 6,000 miles (one-third of the way around the world) and eight time zones. Today the line carries goods across the continent and transports mostly Russian passengers, though many foreign tourists also come …

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Sardinia: Italy’s Hidden Gem

The island of Sardinia lies off the west coast of Italy and is second in size to Sicily. It’s an often overlooked destination, but the island of Sardinia lures savvy travelers with its unspoiled beaches, varied terrain, abundant wildlife, rich cuisine and charming small towns. What to Do and See in Sardinia Nature is one of Sardinia’s biggest …

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Exploring the Islands of Scotland

Scotland has nearly 800 islands, many of which are uninhabited. The islands are divided into main groupings, which include the Orkney Islands, Shetland Islands, the Firth of Clyde, and the Inner and Outer Hebrides. Of the inhabited islands, many are connected to the mainland by bridge, while others are accessible only by ferry or plane. …

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Exploring the Irish Traditions of Galway Ireland

On the west coast of Ireland lies Galway, the fourth largest city in the country.  The city is known as the culture capital of Ireland and is so nicknamed “Ireland’s Cultural Heart” for the plentiful festivals held each year. Galway has a flourishing performing arts scene with several theatres, including the Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe, Ireland’s …

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Spain’s White Hill Towns

  The Andalusia area of southern Spain is home to dozens of charming small towns, referred to as the White Hill Towns because of the whitewashed walls of the town’s buildings. While there are many towns scattered throughout the region, if you plan to visit a few it’s easiest to make a home base in …

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