Jen Rose Smith is an award-winning writer and editor living in Vermont's Green Mountains, where she writes deeply reported features on travel, culture, sustainability, adventure and place. Her work has been featured by the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, National Geographic, CNN, and many other outlets. jenniferrosesmith @ gmail.com

Travel • 1st April 2025

Ancient walking trails are back—and you can hike them

Mei Zhang grew up amid the emerald-cloaked mountains of Yunnan, China, where an old joke mentions that the gorges were so narrow, and their slopes so steep, that you could shout across the valleys to ask your nearest neighbors to dinner.

Virtuoso • 24th January 2025

The Best Hammam in Istanbul Is Also One of Its Oldest

The Mimar Sinan-designed Zeyrek Cinili Hamam keeps centuries-old traditions alive.

National Geographic • 6th August 2021

The Middle East may be the next great hiking destination

Several long-distance trails have opened in recent years, shaking up misconceptions about the region and recalling its long history of foot travel.

AFAR Media • 6th August 2024

Why Some People Are Paying to Be Left on a Desert Island—Alone

Since 2010, Docastaway has sent travelers to deserted islands with no training, no company, and few supplies. And business is booming.

Washington Post • 4th September 2020

Against a backdrop of soaring small boat sales, a solo kayak trip in Vermont

Paddling the Northern Forest Canoe Trail alone proved a respite amid pandemic restrictions.

Virtuoso • 24th January 2025

A Midsummer Night’s Journey Through Iceland’s Westfjords | Virtuoso

A road trip suffused with perpetual daylight and rumors of elves.

Washington Post • 29th September 2021

At 82, legendary travel writer Colin Thubron shows no signs of slowing down

“In a hotel mirror, I have seen with surprise an old man in his eightieth year, then forgotten him,” Thubron wrote.

Wall Street Journal • 6th April 2025

Looking for a Good Time in Vermont? Try the Hardware Store.

To stay relevant and support their communities, some of the state’s old-fashioned country stores have expanded their offerings to beers on tap, live music and more. Stop by for a slice of seriously local culture.