School
University of York - UK
Expertise
European & Asian City Breaks, Budget Travel, Road Trips
- Laura started traveling alone during college on a real shoestring budget (think 28-bed dormitories and 20-hour bus journeys). While her budget isn't quite as tight now, she still likes to find ways to save money while on a trip.
- As a lover of road trips, Laura has traveled extensively by car and RV in North America, Australia, and New Zealand. As such, she knows what to pack and what to leave behind, how to get discounted rates in motels, and where the best places to camp are along the way.
- Many travelers don't make it to Central and Eastern Europe beyond Prague, but -- as a resident of the region -- Laura is passionate about bringing lesser-traveled destinations in this area into the spotlight. She can persuade anyone to visit Sarajevo, Skopje, or Sofia.
Experience
Laura started her writing career in 2017 after working as an English as a second language teacher for many years. Her job allowed her to live and work in several countries and pursue her passion for travel. Now settled in Poland, she writes for sites including Explore, Booking.com, Matador Network, and the English language school Lingoda.
Education
Laura graduated from the University of York in the UK with a bachelor's degree in history. She also has an English teaching qualification. History and travel go hand-in-hand for Laura, as she loves discovering the present and past of new places. Teaching English gave her an appreciation of the nuances of the language and set her up for a career in travel writing.
Explore’s content is created by qualified and experienced writers and editors, bolstered by outside field experts. Our mission is to provide readers with well-rounded and accurate information by way of entertaining and engaging articles that deliver a diversity of content, including everything from detailed guides for exotic locales to easily accessible information on domestic travel.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process available here.
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More people are camping than ever before, but it's important to know how to prepare. Before you go camping, do this crucial step to ensure a smooth experience.
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Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city with a short drive out to this serene Texas state park for hiking, riverfront camping, and stargazing.
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If you’re frustrated by the TSA rules imposed at airport security, an alleged new screening update may be some good news. Here’s what it means for travelers.
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City-hopping by train is a great way to get around Europe, and you can stick to your plans if you avoid this common train travel mistake in Germany.
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Take a break from the over-touristed Tokyo and head to one of this equally incredible but lesser-visited cities to see a different side of Japan.
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Travel Guides
By Laura Jones
Skip the highly-touristed capital city of Reykjavik and head to this lesser-known town nearby for stunning natural surroundings and local Icelandic flair.
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Tokyo is not only Japan's capital city, it's a massive tourist draw, but here's one crucial mistake visitors to the city often make their first time out.
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Travel Guides
By Laura Jones
Visit this underrated and incredibly budget-friendly capital city in Eastern Europe for fewer crowds, interesting history, and unique architecture.
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Europe is filled with elegance, but Rick Steves has a particular love of this city in Austria. With art, history, and delicious food, you'll fall in love too.
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International
By Laura Jones
Bloated on a plane. Diarrhea while sightseeing. We've all been there. International travel can seriously impact your gut. Here's how (and how to avoid it).
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Attractions
By Laura Jones
Take European travel expert Rick Steves' advice and add this immersive cultural experience to your itinerary to get a taste of the "Old World."
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United States
By Laura Jones
This gorgeous red rock waterfall over one of Utah’s best swimming holes is the perfect place to take a dip while exploring incredible nature.
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Most people generally don't associate Sweden with enjoying pizza, but the European country does, especially with this unexpected topping choice.
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Take it from the world's most beloved travel expert, Anthony Bourdain, one of these classic hotels is a worthwhile experience to splurge on.
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Here are the key differences between Cajun and Creole food so you can learn about the flavors and cultural influences of everything you eat in Louisiana.
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Looking for beautiful natural scenery, including the ability to camp right over a gorgeous lake? You should head to this state park in Tennessee.
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Prepare for your outdoor adventure north of the border by learning about these unexpected differences you'll notice in Canada's national parks.
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United States
By Laura Jones
Want to fit in with the locals when you're visiting San Francisco? Make sure you don't let any Californians hear you break this unspoken rule.
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Utah, like many US states, abounds with natural beauty, but its most refreshing secret offers swimming opportunities framed by dazzling desert views.
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Attractions
By Laura Jones
Add this mesmerizing swimming hole to your Route 66 road trip itinerary to cool off in its clear blue waters, but don't leave without exploring the town, too.
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If you're a nervous flier, you may want to avoid this notoriously bumpy flight route. Here's why "mountain waves" make the journey so turbulent.
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Travel expert Rick Steves knows the perfect ways to get across Europe, and this incredible train ride will take you to two of Europe's most iconic cities.
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These airlines' so-called “junk fees” keep quietly adding up, and cost you more while making them billions. Here's how you can avoid them on your next flight.
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International
By Laura Jones
It can be difficult to enjoy your European getaway when every attraction is packed with people. Here's Rick Steves' protégé's advice for dodging these crowds.
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United States
By Laura Jones
This Old West town is a small but beloved tourist attraction and is a great gateway to exploring Arizona's Superstition Mountains. Here's what to expect.
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United States
By Laura Jones
April is a special month for bicycle enthusiasts at Grand Teton National Park. Discover the rare wonders this destination has in store for a limited time.
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You may be surprised to find that Japan, a place famous for its amazing food, has very few 5-star reviewed restaurants. Here's why it's so uncommon.
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