School
Westfield State University
Expertise
Fly fishing, Hiking, Paddling
- A native New Englander, Ryan has been an active member of several sporting clubs, including the Worcester County League of Sportsmen's Clubs and the New England Fly Tyers.
- An avid fly fisherman, paddler, and hiker, his greatest outdoor influences are Henry David Thoreau, the novella and film adaptations of "A River Runs Through It," his father-in-law, Keary, his wife Briana, his three children, and of course, his own father, Dan.
- He lives on a 2.75-acre homestead that never ceases to present opportunities to get outside and adventure in the woods.
Experience
Growing up in New England, Ryan was never far away from the rivers, lakes, ponds, woods, and ocean coast that have made the region a paradise for outdoor lovers. A writer from an early age, Ryan has been published by local New England publications Edible Pioneer Valley and The Pulse, has appeared nationally in Fresh Cup Magazine and The Epoch Times. Fly fishing is perhaps Ryan's favorite outdoor activity. He was in charge of the fly fishing department at his local L.L. Bean, and previously served as a board member and president of the New England Fly Tyers. Apart from outdoor writing, Ryan is a food writer, essayist, aspiring novelist, and award-winning playwright. He is currently building a homestead with his wife and three children in the foothills of southwestern New Hampshire.
Education
Ryan holds a bachelor's degree in communication with a concentration in journalism from Westfield State University.
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.
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Visions of visiting historic landmarks and embarking on a Euro Summer draw people across the Atlantic, but this travel myth could be limiting your experience.
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United States
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United States
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Budget Travel
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Solo Travel
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Beach Vacations
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Travel Etiquette
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Don't risk looking silly to the locals when dining on delicious pizza in Italy, even if those behaviors would be perfectly acceptable in your home country.
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United States
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Escape the bustle of New York's larger metropolises for this scenic city in the Finger Lakes, which boasts incredible shopping and a unique industrial history.
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Whether you go for a silky ciocolatto or a fruity limone, as a tourist you’ll want to know this unspoken etiquette rule when ordering gelato in Italy.
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Mount Rainier is one of the most breathtaking peaks in the U.S., and this difficult hike offers those who make the journey some truly amazing views.
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New Hampshire's beautiful White Mountains offer travelers some great hiking options, including a loop boasting major elevation gains and breathtaking views.
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This stunning historic fountain the middle of Rome isn't just for decoration. The water is cool and drinkable, so do as the Romans do and take a sip.
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Head to this heritage trail in the far south of New Zealand to explore some of the country's most stunning landscapes and see one-of-a-kind wildlife.
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Gorgeous waterfalls, majestic forests, and mystical shrines are all within hiking reach on this picturesque mountain that is a day trip from Tokyo.
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United States
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Calling all thrill seekers! If you love adrenaline, then challenge yourself to hike this dangerous, snowy, and steep mountain in Washington State.
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Rick Steves knows European travel, and he highly recommends this historic Italian city that makes for a great romantic destination for couples.
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What is "trail magic"? You might hear hikers talk about it, especially on long hikes like the Appalachian Trail. Learn more about trail magic and trail angels.
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Road Trips
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What is better for an outdoor road trip, all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD)? We reached out to an expert to find out. Here's what we learned.
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Here's why European travel expert Rick Steves loved hiking this multi-day route through three countries in the Alps, and how you can prepare for the journey.
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Featuring tranquil lakeside scenery, a laid-back attitude, and a unique blend of cultures, this underrated European city is well worth a visit.
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Rick Steves has no shortage of tips to help you get the most from your European vacation, and his smart approach to museums will definitely enhance your trip.
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Those looking to relax and bask in the beautiful nature found in California need look no further than this peaceful campground near the beach.
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Beach Vacations
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While it may be tucked away on an island in Scotland's stunning Outer Hebrides, the turquoise water of this under-the-radar beach could pass for the Caribbean.
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This small but mighty tool is essential to throw in your adventure pack, and can help you avoid contracting a disease when exploring outdoors.
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United States
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North Carolina may have better known cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, but this college town near the Blue Ridge Mountains holds its own in fun.
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