Location
Providence, Rhode Island
School
University of Pittsburgh, Chatham University
Expertise
Bicycle Touring, Ecotourism, Backpacking
- Robert worked as a journalist for two years in Costa Rica, penning nearly 500 articles about local people and institutions for The Tico Times.
- He once rode buses through the former Yugoslavia in search of a Bosnian refugee he'd known in high school, a journey he documented in his first published book, "The Archipelago: A Balkan Passage."
- His first feature-length documentary, "The Trail," was about cycling the Great Allegheny Passage from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C. It has aired several times on the public television station WQED.
Experience
Robert has worked as a freelance writer and multimedia producer for more than two decades. He grew up in rural Vermont and spent 16 years in Pittsburgh, where he served as a contributing editor for Pittsburgh Magazine and a regular art critic for City Paper. Robert honed his backpacking skills as a student on Semester at Sea, and he has since written about travel for a wide range of outlets, including BBC Travel, Longreads, Trivago, and Lonely Planet guidebooks. An avid bikepacker, Robert has written about bicycle journeys for Momentum Magazine and Adventure Cyclist. His films have been screened all over the world, and his proudest honor was an award for Best Documentary Director from the Block Island Film Festival. He now lives in Rhode Island, where he contributes lifestyle stories to Providence Monthly and community profiles for Jewish Rhode Island.
Education
Robert earned his B.A. in creative writing from the University of Pittsburgh and an MFA in nonfiction writing from Chatham University, where he served as Whitford Fellow, the program's highest honor.
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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Camping
By Robert Isenberg
You have to be prepared when camping in bear country, especially with your food. But what about your clothes after you've been cooking? Here's an important tip.
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Car Rentals
By Robert Isenberg
Renting a car is a very common thing to do while traveling, but if this "mistake" happens, it could lead to serious legal issues, including jail time.
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Europe
By Robert Isenberg
This crumbling fortress overlooks Lake Como, posh towns, and the Alps, and it also boasts a fascinating history dating back to the Dark Ages.
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Camping
By Robert Isenberg
Most outdoor lovers would never think to bring these inexpensive party items on camping trips to help them see inside their tents and coolers on dark nights.
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Hiking
By Robert Isenberg
The next time you purchase a backpack, check to see that the buckle of the sternum strap has this safety feature that could potentially save your life.
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The misty forests in this area of Costa Rica beckon adventurous travelers with their hanging bridges, zip lines, bungee jumps, and incredible wildlife.
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Tips And Hacks
By Robert Isenberg
Struggle with knowing what and what not to pack for a trip? This inspired strategy can help those constantly on the go to pack smarter, not harder.
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Tips And Hacks
By Robert Isenberg
Not all camping gear is solely for camping. This convenient item is an even better hack than using packing cubes, and you can use it for all your travel needs.
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America offers many great spots for outdoor recreation, but this unique New York area actually used to be an airport, and its fascinating history still shines.
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United States
By Robert Isenberg
America is a country full of cars and drivers, but not every American destination is car-friendly, very much including this major capital city.
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Hiking
By Robert Isenberg
If you're feeling burnt out and stressed, this particular travel trend may be able to help boost your mental health by allowing you to connect with nature.
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Europe
By Robert Isenberg
Looking for a way to extend your Croatian vacation? Look no further than this laid-back coastal town in Montenegro where life moves at a slower pace.
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Cruises
By Robert Isenberg
Living on a cruise ship may sound like an extravagant luxury, but might it actually be economical for some retirees? Here's what you should know.
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Getting around Italy isn't always the simplest prospect, depending on the area one is traveling in, but this surprising method can help make things easier.
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Culinary Vacations
By Robert Isenberg
England may be famous for hosting "high tea," but those wanting to drink their tea while at literal heights will be mesmerized by this Indian gem.
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There are many countries that seem like obvious dream destinations for solo travelers, but this top-ranked country is likely to surprise most.
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Europe
By Robert Isenberg
Looking for the experience of Dutch tourist destinations like Amsterdam without the crowds? Head to this charming town full of artistic history.
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Europe
By Robert Isenberg
Rick Steves and his tour guides have the best lodging solution for travelers to Europe hoping to try the relaxing new trend of immersive, slow travel.
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Booking
By Robert Isenberg
You don't want your vacation to be ruined before it even begins! This tip could help you avoid staying stuck in unsatisfactory accommodations.
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Caribbean
By Robert Isenberg
The Caribbean boasts many beautiful beaches, but this one's pleasures also come along with multiple hazards, including scammers and rip currents.
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Disney
By Robert Isenberg
Disney parks are very accommodating, but they do have their rules. This one popular item for taking pictures is actually banned at Disney parks, so be prepared.
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Hiking
By Robert Isenberg
If you’re going on your first backpacking trip, you may be excited to get on the road. Just take time to avoid this costly mistake when buying hiking gear.
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Europe
By Robert Isenberg
While it’s common to give this type of gift to friends in the U.S., you might be making a big etiquette faux pas if you bring it to a dinner party in France.
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Want to experience a rainforest environment without having to leave the lap of luxury? Check out this beautiful, but pricey Costa Rican resort.
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China has lots of natural beauty waiting for visitors to discover, but few spots are more striking than this unique landmark near the Yangtze River.
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Booking
By Robert Isenberg
When you reserve tickets online, you typically get a digital ticket via email or similar. Here is Rick Steves's advice to easily find the ticket on your phone.
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Hiking
By Robert Isenberg
A certain popular item of waterproof clothing may serve its intended purpose, but it's not exactly the most useful choice for a hiking trip.
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