On an Island with Ileah

College adventurer reveals her top travel destinations

 By Courtney Antkowiak ’18

Ileah Duhart, a professional writing and communications major at Bay Path, has her sights set on traveling the world. Meeting locals, trying new dishes, and taking the less-traveled path are top priorities on her trips. Just ask her about her most recent vacation to Jamaica, where she stayed in a home on the beach and spent time with locals living on a mountain. For this college adventurer, traveling helps her learn through experiences well beyond the classroom and the campus.

Ileah is not alone; Forbes reports that Latin American and Caribbean destinations account for 16% of all American college students studying or vacationing abroad.

Inquisitive by nature, Ileah strives to experience what every culture has to offer. She picked up her curiosity from her aunt, an avid traveler herself. Check out these three places at the top of Ileah’s bucket list:

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

This Caribbean island is known by geologists for its tropical climate and abundance of volcanic rocks. There’s ample opportunity here to study seismic and geothermal activity at Sulphur Springs, which most recently erupted in 2001. While in St. Lucia, stay at Jade Mountain to experience an incredible sanctuary with breathtaking views. You’ll find Ileah floating in a majestic infinity pool, overlooking fantastic natural rock formations. 

Venice, Italy

Waterfront palazzos, art galleries, and high end shopping are just a few of the attractions of this European city. Join Ileah as she strolls through the streets of Venice, Italy and soaks up the history there. A new appreciation for art is opened up when you experience Picasso in person! Don’t forget to stop by the famous Doge’s Palace - a gothic style museum featuring even more incredible works of art.

Santorini, Greece

Beautiful architecture, bright blue waters, and beaches made of lava pebbles are just a few of the amazing features you’ll find on this island. Ileah hopes to expand her knowledge of food beyond the dining hall and try some local dishes. Pick up some delicious Gyros made with locally sourced lamb while you’re exploring Santorini. The traditional dish Saganaki, made from fried cheese, filo pastry and honey, is sought out by tourists. Look for Ileah on the road less traveled - living life like a local.

Where will her passion for travel take her next? You might see Ileah on Bay Path’s Capitals of the World Trip to Rome this coming March. Stay tuned!