How can I start travel writing?

Ditch the Instagram Filter: Crafting Your Way into Travel Writing

So, you dream of ditching your cubicle for cobblestone streets, trading spreadsheets for sunsets, and crafting words that transport readers to far-flung locales. You yearn to be a travel writer, but the path seems as winding as a Himalayan mountain road. Fear not, aspiring explorer! Breaking into this competitive field isn’t about luck or inherent talent; it’s about strategy, persistence, and a healthy dose of preparation.

While the allure of packing your bags and seeing the world is strong, the key to a successful travel writing career lies in the groundwork you lay before you even book your flight. Forget the spontaneous adventure for now – the focus is on crafting compelling story ideas and pitching them effectively. Here’s how:

1. The Idea Factory: Brainstorming Beyond the Obvious

Travel writing isn’t just about documenting what you see and do. It’s about finding the unique angle, the hidden gem, the fresh perspective that will captivate readers. Forget the generic “Top 10 Things to See in Paris.” Think deeper:

• Niche Down: Consider your passions and expertise. Are you a foodie? Focus on culinary tours or regional specialties. A history buff? Explore historical sites through a unique lens.
• Current Events: How can you connect your travel with relevant news or trends? Perhaps explore sustainable tourism initiatives in a specific region or report on the impact of climate change on a coastal community.
• Human Interest: Travel is ultimately about people. Seek out compelling stories of local artisans, community leaders, or individuals making a difference.
• Untapped Territories: Explore lesser-known destinations or focus on unexplored aspects of familiar ones. Think beyond the Eiffel Tower and consider Parisian street art or the city’s thriving alternative music scene.

The key is to be original and think outside the travel guidebook. Develop a vast library of potential story ideas. Don’t discard anything at this stage; even the most outlandish concept can spark a breakthrough.

2. Research: Digging Deeper Than Google Search

Once you have an idea, delve into research. This isn’t just about knowing the price of a train ticket or the opening hours of a museum. It’s about:

• Understanding the Context: Learn about the history, culture, and current issues of the place you’re writing about.
• Finding Expert Sources: Identify individuals who can provide authoritative insights and firsthand accounts.
• Exploring Alternative Perspectives: Don’t rely solely on guidebooks. Read local newspapers, blogs, and scholarly articles.
• Validating Your Assumptions: Ensure your story idea is feasible and that there’s a market for it.

Thorough research will not only enrich your writing but also demonstrate your commitment to accuracy and credibility to potential editors.

3. The Art of the Query Letter: Selling Your Story

The query letter is your first (and often only) chance to impress an editor. It’s a concise and persuasive proposal that showcases your story idea, your writing ability, and your suitability for the publication. A compelling query letter should:

• Hook the Editor: Start with a captivating opening that grabs their attention.
• Clearly Define Your Story: Concisely explain your proposed topic, angle, and target audience.
• Highlight Your Credentials: Briefly mention your relevant experience, writing skills, and any unique qualifications.
• Demonstrate Knowledge of the Publication: Show that you’ve researched the publication and understand its style and readership.
• Offer a Compelling Reason Why They Should Publish Your Story: Emphasize the story’s relevance, originality, and potential impact.

4. Pitch Before You Pack: Securing Assignments

While the temptation to book a one-way ticket and write from the road is strong, securing assignments before you travel significantly increases your chances of success. Pitching editors upfront demonstrates professionalism, provides financial stability, and ensures your work has a home.

Think of it this way: you’re selling a valuable asset – your writing – and publications are looking for content. By having a collection of well-researched and thoughtfully crafted pitches ready to go, you position yourself as a reliable and proactive travel writer.

Travel writing is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires dedication, resilience, and a willingness to constantly learn and adapt. By focusing on building a strong foundation of story ideas, conducting thorough research, crafting compelling query letters, and prioritizing securing assignments upfront, you can transform your wanderlust into a fulfilling and rewarding career. So, put down the Instagram filter, pick up your pen (or keyboard), and start crafting your path to the world of travel writing. Your adventure awaits, one well-crafted sentence at a time.