Matt Villano

Contributing Writer, Via
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Matt Villano is a freelance writer and editor based in Healdsburg, California with more than 20 years of experience.

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He has written for outlets including CNN Travel, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, AFAR, TIME, National Geographic Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and the San Francisco Chronicle to name a few.

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Articles by Matt Villano

Large field of poppies at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, California at sunset.

Where to Stop on I-5, from Sacramento to Los Angeles

Stretch your legs, grab a snack, and take a break at these spots along Interstate 5 in California.
A Hurtigruten Cruise sails under the northern lights.

6 Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights

Head to Alaska to catch this natural wonder in its peak season.
Golden Gate Bridge pedestrian path in San Francisco, California

8 Family-Friendly Hikes Around the West

Don't miss these easy hikes in the Bay Area, Southern California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona.
People dine outside at the Farm-to-Table Dinner at Kendall-Jackson in Fulton, California.

23 Hidden Gems in Sonoma County, California

Enjoy Northern California’s harvest season at these less-visited spots.
Northern lights above the trees in Fairbanks, Alaska.

7 Places to See the Northern Lights in the U.S. and Beyond

Witness the stunning aurora borealis at one of these spots.
San Gregorio State Beach at sunset, Half Moon Bay, California.

Celebrate Fall in Half Moon Bay, CA

About a half-hour south of San Francisco, a farming and fishing community comes to life in autumn.
Stairs leading to the beach at sunset at Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach, California

Best Tide Pools Around the West

The Pacific Coast teems with tide pools and little critters waiting to be discovered.
Metal sculptures along the Neon Line in Reno, Nevada.

Reno, Nevada: Exploring the Biggest Little City in the World

There’s never been more to see and do in Reno.
deer prance through Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park as the Cathedral Range looms in background

Yosemite Beyond the Valley

Venture beyond Yosemite Valley to find mountain magic at California's most popular national park.
kids holding hands and running into the waves together.

Family-Friendly Spring Break Destinations

From warm sand to fresh snow, play together at these kid-friendly spots in the West.
shattered glass around a broken car window

How to Break Your Car Window in an Emergency

Accidents happen. An escape plan—and the right tools—can help you stay safe and calm.
trail through redwoods in Mendocino, California

5 Hidden Gems in Mendocino County, California

Five great reasons to skip the beach and explore inland in Northern California.
An extended family on a camping trip

7 Tips for Traveling With Your Extended Family

Plan a getaway that keeps multiple generations happy.
A father and daughter strolling the beach in Encinitas, California

7 West Coast Towns for a Mellow Beach Weekend

Stroll, splash, and explore in these Pacific Coast towns.
highway 101 passes through the avenue of the giants in humboldt redwoods state park

First-Timer’s Guide to Humboldt Redwoods State Park

3,000-year-old trees, miles of trails, and more.

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