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.
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Stories By Robert Isenberg
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Hiking the Grand Canyon is a bucket list item for a lot of outdoor enthusiasts, but be forewarned that these trails are dangerous even in spring and fall.
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Camping is meant to be simple so you can enjoy the beauty of nature, but it gets complicated if you're bringing the kids. Here's the best tent for a comfy trip.
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This particular beach on the island of Molokai in Hawaii is secluded, peaceful, and expansive. Here's what you need to know for a crowd-free vacation.
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History, ghosts, and the Wild West. What more could you ask for? This town in Arizona was once known as "wicked" and is now a revitalized weekend getaway.
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Hidden away in northern Maine is a unique backcountry road that will make you feel like you are miles away from civilization - because you are!
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If you want to eat sushi and learn about its history and culture, make sure you experience this dining tour in Tokyo. We spoke exclusively to its founder.
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A lot of people worry about being pickpocketed while traveling internationally, but what about their digital safety? Rick Steves has some cybersecurity advice.
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Summertime is the perfect time for water adventures. This state park in Pennsylvania has some natural features that are great for rafting, swimming, and more.
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What do you get when you combine a restaurant with an amusement park ride? You can experience it when you visit this eatery in Germany's Europa-Park.
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A little-known state park in Maine makes a big splash. With many lighthouses set against a giant sandy beach and the ocean, you'll definitely want to visit.
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Cruises can feel like a nonstop party, but there's one bad habit that a lot of cruise goers engage in that can be seriously hazardous to your health.
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When you think of Arizona, you probably think of the Grand Canyon and desert landscapes, right? Well this lake right near Phoenix will totally change your view.
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The "Tarzan Movement" is a viral sensation that encourages travelers to explore nature without their phones. Here's how it all got started with one influencer.
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Train travel isn't what it used to be in America. In fact, these states don't have any Amtrak service at all. Luckily, Amtrak is expanding its service.
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One of the most breathtaking tourism experiences found near Kyoto, Japan is this highly-visited serene walk through a beautiful bamboo forest.
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German culture is different from American culture. If you don't want to be rude on your next trip to Germany, don't do this with your body when talking.
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Avoid the crowds by visiting this lesser-known cave in Texas Hill Country. With unique rock formations, the cave even hosts concerts in its Queen's Throne Room.
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Many travelers love to relax at hot springs, and this spot in Oregon, accessible by only a short hike,. provides scenic access to some great ones.
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Walking the wrong way might not seem like it should be a crime, but in this particular instance, doing it can land you a hefty fine in Paris.
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"Seat-squatting" is a emerging trend that is making airplane passengers extra frustrated. Here's what it means and how you can avoid it on your next flight.
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Spain boasts many wonderful destinations for travelers, but this incredibly walkable city is a well-preserved historical paradise of a location.
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There are quite a few rules that tourists should know before visiting Japan. While some may be obvious, others may starkly contradict certain American customs.
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The TSA is looking out for all kinds of suspicious behavior, and this includes what you're wearing. Here's one type of clothing item that might raise eyebrows.
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When visiting the Netherlands, you might be taken by surprise when heading to wash your hands. Here's what to expect while using a (quirky) Dutch sink.
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A visit to Italy is something most travelers crave, but while exploring the European country, there's an unspoken rule to keep in mind when walking.
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This vibrant California college town near Sacramento makes for the perfect weekend getaway and is a haven for walkers, cyclists, and art lovers alike.
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It's no secret that food is different in America compared to Italy. But what do Italians think of American cuisine? Rick Steves has some insight.