Robert Isenberg
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.
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.
Stories By Robert Isenberg
-
Colliding with any animal on the road can be a hugely traumatic experience and one that is best avoided. Here's what you need to know about deer and elk.
-
Madrid is a stunning city, and its central location makes it a perfect home base to explore Spain. Luckily, one transportation method is top-notch.
-
Austria is a must for anyone in search of relaxation and recuperation, but there is something special about this breathtaking spa experience in the mountains.
-
Tropical climates get hot. Really hot. So the color of your car matters. Here are the best colors to choose if you're renting a car in a tropical climate.
-
Every generation thinks young people are rude, but does this increasingly common response to "Thank you" confirm that Gen Z might take the cake?
-
There is no shortage of odd laws around the world, and Dubai is no different. Chewing gum on the metro? You might want to know the rules before you do.
-
Oh, tourists. At Rome's Trevi Fountain, inappropriate tourist behavior is forcing the government to change some rules. Here's what to know.
-
Cruises are generally safe, but safety is also based on how the passengers behave. One thing you don't want to do is take this kind of photo.
-
If you're looking for a luxury getaway with exclusive beach access in one of the most beautiful corners of the world, this Costa Rican hotel awaits.
-
With laidback vibes, stunning beaches, and colorful scenery, this town in southern Spain is a secluded paradise for hippies or anyone looking to escape.
-
A unique part of the dedicated hiking community is that of trail names, or nicknames for use on the trail, but there are intricate rules and rituals involved.
-
What's the harm in taking a rock, right? The reality is more complicated. If you're visiting Hawaii, here are some reasons why taking a rock is disrespectful.
-
If you're heading for a run in New York City, you won't get better views of Lower Manhattan than the ones that dot this most picturesque of routes.
-
Two tickets for one ride? It might sound odd, but the way bullet trains in Japan work can be confusing to some tourists. Here's how to book Shinkansen properly.
-
Miami is known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and unique architecture. This waterfront park is a perfect jumping-off point to explore Miami.
-
Traveling to St. John’s is easy, right? Just look it up, and you have your directions. Except you might have the wrong place! Here’s how to avoid a big mistake.
-
To tourists, the London Underground might be an attraction. But to locals, "the Tube" is their mode of transportation. So follow the rules and don't do this.
-
Your captain might not want you to bring bananas on board, but it's not because of border customs or the fear of slipping cartoon-style. Here's the real reason.
-
There’s an infamous brontosaurus in North Carolina that’s had a rough life. Luckily, you can join the locals by visiting him and celebrating his endurance.
-
O' Christmas tree, O' Christmas tree ... Your branches might be lovely, but they can also be dangerous if you follow this European Christmas tree tradition.
-
We all want the best photos on our cruise vacation, both for memories and for social media. Unfortunately, this image and video toy is banned on cruises.
-
Airports. The dreaded travel stage keeping you from your glorious vacation. To make it easier on everyone, don't break this unspoken airport etiquette rule.
-
Knowing what to wear is important when visiting other countries, but is it really illegal for men to wear this common article of clothing in Italy?
-
If you’re concerned about being outed as a tourist while you’re visiting Japan, you might want to avoid wearing this popular and useful accessory.
-
One of the world’s most beautiful freshwater springs is hidden away in the Florida Panhandle. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for spotting manatees.
-
Dubai can be magical, but it's also crowded and overwhelming. Take a respite by traveling to this nearby town that offers endless outdoor adventures.
-
What do you do when you have to blow your nose in public? You might think you can whip out a tissue, but if you're in these countries, it'll be a faux pas.