Isabel OToole
Expertise
Road Trips, Latin America, Travel Photography
- Isabel is multilingual and has lived in London, Berlin, Bogota and Mexico City.
- As an avid photographer, she is never without her camera and has exhibited her photographs internationally.
- She once bought a beat-up car in Georgia (the country, not the state) and drove it all the way across the country before selling it at the border of Armenia.
Experience
Following a decade of work in the publishing, photography, and film industries, Isabel now lives in Mexico City, where her dream of driving to beaches and writing about her travels has now come true. Born in London, she moved to Berlin to pursue her photography career. Her editorial work has since led her to travel across 37 countries and counting. She now accompanies her photography with well-researched travel writing with a focus on arts and culture. She has had work published by Culture Trip, The Independent Photographer, Indie Magazine, Material Magazine, Resident Advisor, Crack Magazine, and Berlin Film Journal to name a few.
Education
Isabel has a BA in English Literature from the University of Kent.
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Stories By Isabel OToole
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This city in China is one of the oldest in the country and it's filled with some of the most beautiful gardens and temples. It also has a thriving food scene.
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Explore a new side to France when you visit the world's perfume capital. This sweet-smelling paradise will delight you with serene coastal views and flowers.
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Onsens in Japan are wonderful places to relax and recharge, but there is one strict policy that might lead you to be turned away from these popular hot springs.
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The "Pearl of the Mediterranean" is a small town in Sicily that's perched high on top of a mountain, but also offers access to beaches, including Isola Bella.
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You may assume all the best surfing spots in the world are only in warm climates, but this area in Denmark called "Cold Hawaii" has some of the best waves.
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If you’re craving an escape from the city chaos, this hidden off-the-grid town serves up breathtaking mountain views and pure, uninterrupted serenity.
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A settlement on the Virginia coast has turned into a ghost town. Now, you can visit the church and graveyard, while also exploring the nearby state park.
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Hawaii offers endless beauty, and at this spot on the island of Oahu, you can surround yourself with mountains at a crescent-shaped beach park.
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Explore Fiji’s most picturesque village, where you can learn about the local culture and visit traditional thatched bures (homes) in an idyllic natural setting.
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Kayak on a fjord, hike with panoramic views, and relax on the beach in this stunning Canadian village surrounded by mountains, rainforests, and sea.
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Ditch overhyped Miami attractions for this underrated Florida beach town with tons of fun and fewer crowds. It's a hidden gem destination travelers will love.
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Discover this awe-inspiring sinkhole in China! Learn about its breathtaking size and why it’s a must-see natural wonder for adventurers and nature lovers.
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For the freshest in-flight meals, there is a particular section of the airplane to sit in according to the serving strategy flight attendants follow.
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You might be doing one common hand gesture that can offend everyone around you in Greece. Here's what to know to stay polite and avoid making a huge faux pas.
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Think you know everything to pack for a London vacation? Think again. Here's the one thing you wouldn't think to bring but absolutely should for your next trip.
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The second-largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia is packed with fabulous destinations, but one cliffside is a must for foodie tourists.
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Just when you think you've heard of every possible Greek island adventure, along comes a little-known spot that might just be the perfect beach getaway.
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Learn how to make more environmentally friendly travel choices by determining when it's best to drive and when it's ok to fly using these helpful tips.
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Learn the golden rules of eating authentic Peruvian ceviche like a local, and find out more about the origins of the dish and what makes it special.
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Once a bustling hub of activity, this town has become one of the best-preserved haunted spots in the Wild West. Are you brave enough to pay it a visit?
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There are standard New Year's celebrations (fireworks, champagne), but there are also superstitious traditions. This one from Italy happens to be in your pants.
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Working on the ultimate road trip around the ghost towns of the United States? This mysterious spot in the mountains of Colorado is a must-add to the itinerary.
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Make sure you keep a smile on your face when visiting this iconic city in Italy if you want to avoid breaking a long-standing rule against frowning.
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Hawaii is famous for its unbelievable nature, and the charm of this arboretum offers plenty of chances to escape the hustle and bustle and head into serenity.
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Avoid the crowds and high costs of Venice by staying in a charming town nearby with its own attractions and quick train access to the canals and gondolas.
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San Diego might get most of the press, but there is a gorgeous resort town just across the Mexican border waiting to be explored. Do so with Viator.
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From unpredictable, inclement weather to winding roads, there's a lot to prepare for to ensure you have a safe road trip through Death Valley National Park.