Become a Travel Writer

Alternative Careers | September 11, 2010 | Share

Do you feel like you are always seeking something new? Do you think the gypsy in you is always looking to surpass your customary conduct, if you constantly feel drawn towards the road, then travel writing is the job for you.

Travel, for a writer can become a healthy addiction. Travel, has the ability to snap you out of your comfort zone, which is stimulating, enlightening and startling at various levels. This is what is good for writing. To be a good travel writer you need to be a good absorber, not just an observer, but an absorber! You will be able to write, only when you clutch, grab and grasp. Hence, the primary plan is to learn, to see the right things, to be able to discover the beauty of a place and to appreciate it. To start of with, you need to have some experience of living a life on the road and also have the ability to convey those experiences through your writing. Chances are you speak English and therefore will know how to write decently. Hence, here, I will dwell on some pojnts to keep in mind while being a travel writer.

As a writer, research: It is important that you research your destination well before you hit the road. Read everything you can get your hands on about the place. Thorough research of the place, people, culture, cuisine and every other thing is very vital to you enjoying the travel experience and simultaneously your writing. The more you already know, the more you will have a capacity to absorb on your journey.

Develop your personality: It is vital that you are approachable.

People should be able to just respond to your smile and ease their formality; that’s when the true tales will begin and you will experience the place and its people in its complete grandeur.

Narrate a Story: Take your reader somewhere new and show them something fresh. Tell them a story, not just ‘how to get there’ and ‘tourists attractions’. This is what will make you unique and your writing inimitable.

Paint a Picture: Don’t use big words like endearing abode or splendid.

Keep it simple and explain how it is an endearing abode or what makes it splendid. More importantly use your personal voice, be funny and be surprising.

Quotes lift stories: Your personal experiences is what you reader wants to dwell into. Let your reader discover the people. Write dialogues, conversations and quotes from the local people.

Information: A good write up has 3/4th description and 1/4th facts.

Stick to these allotments. So, be generous with your description, but at the same time, don’t miss out on the information.

Do remember, travel, not travel writing should be ones priority. The transmission of your experiences in words and pictures is what travel writing is. So happy travelling and happy writing!!!!!!

Ramya