Mandy Ellis is an Austin-based freelance writer specializing in food, travel, real estate, and health topics. In addition to CultureMap, she has written for AFAR, Costco, U.S. News & World Report, FSR, QSR, Pizza Today, REALTOR Magazine Online, Hey Cupcake!, Brit + Co, and eBay. When she's not typing away, you can find this Virginia Tech Hokie chasing down her pit bulls, Bo and Charlotte. Check her out at www.mandyellis.com.