travel journalist income

How to Become a Travel Writer: 7 Things You Should Know

Want to become a travel writer? Like any career, it takes hard work, learned skills and persistence. Here’s what you should know about travel writing.

Travel writing is indeed a unique career. I’ve been able to visit destinations all over the world. Travel is not just what I do , it’s become a way of life, a way of thinking.

My home is not just the country where I was born, but many places around the globe that I have come to love. Best of all, I have friends of diverse backgrounds, religions and nationalities.

You’ll never get rich as a travel writer — in fact, it’s one of the lowest paid forms of journalism. But there is a lot more to life than money.

How Do You Become a Travel Writer?

One of the questions I’m often asked is how to become a travel writer. Like any career, travel writing takes learned and practiced skills, hard work and persistence.

I’m told that experience is the best teacher, and looking back at my life, I guess that’s true.

I worked as a freelance journalist for many years before taking a travel writing workshop with a well-respected travel journalist. 

Although I got my start as a travel writer at that workshop years ago, the school of hard knocks was my  real  teacher.

I started reading other travel writers, sent out queries, got rejections and then sent out some more. All this time, I just kept writing and writing.

Some of my attempts failed miserably, but over time, I began to have a few successes. Eventually, the stack of publications that had published my travel writing work grew taller in the office corner.

I’m still learning and growing — it’s a must in this field — but I’ve learned a few tricks of the trade. Here are seven things you should know about travel writing:

Becoming a Travel Writer Will Change the Way You Travel

When you travel knowing that you will write about what you see, it opens your eyes in a new way.

You notice more detail — the way people speak, the architecture, and the local cuisine — and this brings an added dimension of travel enjoyment.

Now, even when I’m not traveling on assignment, I notice these precious details. In fact, I seek them out.

One of my favorite ways to learn about a destination, for example, is to peruse the local grocery establishment. When I was in Kauai recently, I stopped by the Walmart.

I found half an aisle devoted to different kinds of Spam (Hawaiians love their Spam), another aisle full of snorkel gear, boogie boards and surfboards, and a refrigerated display filled with flower leis.

Who knew that Walmart could provide a window into the Hawaiian soul?

The Business of Travel Writing Has Its Own Rules

Like most professions, travel writing has its own rules, norms and standards. If you don’t understand how the business works, then you won’t get far.

Take the time to understand the query and pitching process, and be sure to pitch outlets appropriate for your work.

Be sure you understand the working relationship that travel writers often need to have with tourism destinations, resorts and other travel partners. Talk to other writers, attend workshops or conferences and research travel markets.

The better you understand the business, the more success you will have. Read more on the business of travel writing.

Social media is a huge part of work as a travel writer. Follow other travel bloggers, journalists and influencers. Watch and learn.

What is their angle or unique voice? How do they cover a destination and how do they engage with their followers?

Take Good Notes

Very few of us have perfect memories. (I’m certainly not one of them!) Be sure you record the most important details of your journey, as well as tiny observations.

Keep good notes. I like to keep a little notepad with me to jot things down. I have other friends who take video with their phones, or even keep a little recorder handy.

Some writers keep a daily journal, which is an enjoyable way to record your thoughts. Others take photos and videos.

Include the specifics — the sights, the smells, the sounds and even the people you meet — in your notes. These details will help your story come alive.

Learn from Others

Want to become a better travel writer? Read other writers. Go to the book store and pour over the travel books and magazines.

What destinations do they cover? What is their normal format? Who are they writing for?

Personally, my favorite type of travel writing is the travel essay, an introspective and very personal form of writing.

There are numerous books that carry collections of travel essays. Each year, I devour the “Best American Travel Writing” series. Or check out my travel anthology series, including A Pink Suitcase: 22 Tales of Women’s Travel .

Take an in-depth look at these pieces. How do the writers set up the story? What descriptive skills do they use? What can you learn from them that you can include in your own writing?

• Take Good Photos

As an editor at  Go World Travel Magazine , I spend a lot of time wading through submissions in our slush pile.

Since our site is very visual, photography is often as important as the story — and it’s one of the first things we consider when we look at a submission.

Many destinations provide free photography for press usage, and we often those. But you shouldn’t rely on PR photos to sell your story.

At Go World Travel, we cover many unusual destinations, and stock or press photos aren’t available. If you can’t provide photos to accompany your winery tour in Bulgaria, then chances are, we can’t run your story.

You don’t have to be a professional to take nice photos. Today’s cameras and editing software can do most of the work.

Take an afternoon class on basic photography and you should be able to shoot basic photos that will compliment your work.

Please Don’t Quit Your Day Job — Yet

For most travel writers, travel writing will not be a sole source of income. Travel writing works better as a co-career along with a flexible, but reliable profession.

Several of my travel writing friends also write in other fields. For example, one friend writes grants for a non-profit, another covers health articles.

Being on staff at a travel publication is an excellent way to obtain steady income in travel writing, but like most 9 to 5 jobs, this can also restrict your travel.

Another option is to find an internationally marketable skill that can be done overseas, such as bar tending, teaching English or working in a sports field like diving or skiing.

Then you can live abroad, and write on that country from abroad.

Don’t Get Left Behind

The field of travel writing has changed a lot in the last decade, and it continues to evolve with the times.

Not long ago, most travel writers saw their work published in print. Today, online publishing is much more common.

If you haven’t learned how to write for online publication (short and sweet, using SEO-friendly keywords), then you might be left behind.

For today’s travel writers, an online presence is a must. Do you have a blog or website? Editors want to see your website or at least emailed clips to your work, not mailed photocopies.

Having your own blog, being able to reach out to editors on Twitter or other social media platforms and promoting your work through social media are excellent ways to stay ahead of the game.

Author Bio: Janna Graber has been a travel journalist, editor and video producer for more than 15 years. She is the editor of the World Traveler Tales anthology series and managing editor at Go World Travel Magazine . 

• Latest Posts

• How to Plan a Family Vacation in the Outer Banks - April 5, 2024
• Top 5 Colorado Mountain Towns in Summer - March 22, 2024
• The Magic of the Mekong Delta: From Vietnam to Cambodia by River Cruise - March 6, 2024

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

One Comment

I’m looking for feedback on my articles. I would like to find the right ‘fit’ to make my writing publishable, without turning into an ‘influencer’ one liner here is where you need to go eat, sleep, see type of article. Help is greatly appreciated.

http://www.jtfhub.com

Build a Career You'll Love

Travel journalist salary in the united states.

How much does a Travel Journalist make in the United States? The salary range for a Travel Journalist job is from $41,039 to $52,593 per year in the United States. Click on the filter to check out Travel Journalist job salaries by hourly, weekly, biweekly, semimonthly, monthly, and yearly.

• Per semimonth
• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• New Hampshire
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• San Francisco, CA
• Washington, DC
• Chicago, IL
• New York, NY

HOW SHOULD YOU USE THIS DATA?

Employees: Use this as a guide for salary expectations, but be aware that responsibilities can change across companies for the same job title, so there may be differences between this data, other free site and our subscription products bought by employers.

Employers: This data could be used as reference point in your market pricing, but not the only source, due to differences across jobs locations, and sizes of companies.Consider additional sources like our Employer reported data.

Our consulting team crafts efficient, data-driven solutions using the power of CompAnalyst ® , ensuring your challenges are met head-on.

The trusted data and intuitive software your organization needs to get pay right.

Let our management tool - JobArchitect™ streamline your job description process. Say goodbye to the hassle of crafting job descriptions.

Highest Paying Cities for Travel Journalist in the United States

States with higher salaries for travel journalist, how much do similar professions get paid in the united states, how much should you be earning, what does a travel journalist do.

Also Read :- Top Benefits of Pursuing Journalism and Mass Communication Degree What it takes to be a Good Travel Journalist Travel journalism can be fun to pursue but is pretty demanding too.

A travel journalist needs to travel every now and then, depending on the requirement of a story, or in the case of any event to be covered.

So many people think that because they are passionate about travel and can string a sentence together, that qualifies them to be a travel journalist.

The job of a Travel Journalist involves researching and writing about the places, their heritage, culture, food and people.

If you’re looking for a steady-paycheck type of job, it can make a difference, as typically when a job opening for a travel journalist is announced, often the majority of applicants are those with journalism degrees and many years of experience that qualifies them.

View Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles, 18 Industries, and 26 Job Families.

Most Common Benefits for Travel Journalist

Related companies for travel journalist in the united states, frequently asked questions, do i receive fair pay as a travel journalist currently, what are the responsibilities of a travel journalist, how much do similar jobs to travel journalist make.

• Multimedia Journalist
• Brand Journalist
• Data Journalist
• Digital Journalist
• Music Journalist
• News Journalist
• Senior Journalist
• Video Journalist
• Business Journalist

Where can I get a higher Travel Journalist salary in the United States?

What is the travel journalist's salary range in the united states, career insights.

What Does a Travel Journalist Do?

Find out what a Travel Journalist does, how to get this job, salary information, and what it takes to succeed as a Travel Journalist.

Embarking on a journey as a Travel Journalist involves weaving narratives that transport readers to destinations far and wide, offering them a glimpse into the heart and soul of places they may never visit. This role is dedicated to exploring the world, uncovering hidden gems, and sharing insights about cultures, cuisines, and customs through compelling storytelling and photography. By doing so, Travel Journalists not only inform and entertain but also bridge gaps between diverse cultures, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the world’s vast tapestry. Their work serves as a guide, inspiration, and resource for avid travelers and dreamers alike, enriching their audience’s knowledge and igniting wanderlust with every story told.

Travel Journalist Job Duties

• Research and identify unique travel destinations, experiences, and trends to feature in articles or reports.
• Write engaging and informative content, including articles, blog posts, and social media updates, that captures the essence of travel experiences.
• Photograph or source images to accompany written content, ensuring high-quality visuals that enhance the storytelling.
• Interview locals, tourists, and industry experts to gather diverse perspectives and insights on travel destinations.
• Review accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, providing honest and useful recommendations to readers.
• Navigate travel logistics independently, including arranging transportation, accommodations, and access to events or locations.
• Attend travel industry events, press trips, and conferences to network with tourism professionals and gather information on emerging trends.
• Analyze and report on the environmental and cultural impact of tourism in various destinations, promoting responsible travel practices.

Travel Journalist Salary & Outlook

Factors affecting a Travel Journalist’s salary include experience, publication prestige, niche expertise (e.g., luxury, adventure travel), audience size, multimedia skills (photography, videography), and the ability to secure exclusive stories or interviews. Freelancers’ income varies with their negotiation skills and the quantity of published pieces.

• Median Annual Salary: $49,350 ($23.73/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $70,500 ($33.89/hour)

The employment of travel journalists is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

This growth is driven by increasing global tourism and a growing appetite for unique travel content across digital platforms. Travel journalists are essential for creating engaging content that inspires and informs audiences about new destinations, cultures, and experiences, fueling the demand for their expertise.

Travel Journalist Job Requirements

Education: A Travel Journalist typically holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, Communications, or English, with coursework in creative writing, media ethics, and digital media. Some may have an Associate’s Degree or have taken college courses relevant to writing, photography, and cultural studies. Majors in journalism or communications are common, supplemented by electives in travel, international relations, or language studies to enhance global understanding and reporting skills.

Experience: Travel journalists typically have a background in journalism, writing, or media, with a significant portion having spent time honing their craft through practical experience. This includes on-the-job training at media outlets, participation in writing workshops, and involvement in travel-related reporting projects. Their experience often encompasses developing storytelling skills, researching destinations, and mastering the art of engaging and informative writing. Many have also undergone training programs that focus on digital media, photography, and videography to enhance their travel narratives. This blend of training and hands-on experience equips them to capture and share the essence of their journeys compellingly.

Certifications & Licenses: No specific certifications or licenses are typically required for the job of a Travel Journalist.

Travel Journalist Skills

Cultural Sensitivity: Travel journalists adeptly navigate diverse cultural landscapes, crafting stories that authentically resonate with both local and global audiences. By fostering a deeper connection and understanding, they ensure respectful and accurate representation of communities, their traditions, and values, which is paramount in producing insightful and engaging content.

Multimedia Storytelling: Engaging narratives in travel journalism are crafted by weaving together text, images, and video. Journalists transport their audience to distant locales, offering immersive experiences that evoke the sights, sounds, and emotions of their destinations. A keen eye for detail and selecting the right multimedia elements complement and enhance the storytelling, ensuring each piece deeply resonates with readers and viewers.

Travel Logistics Planning: Coordinating transportation, accommodations, and schedules efficiently, travel journalists immerse themselves in diverse cultures and stories without logistical mishaps. Timely content delivery and maximized richness of experiences captured are indispensable for compelling and authentic travel narratives.

Language Proficiency: Seamless communication in the native tongue of a destination enriches storytelling, providing access to firsthand experiences and insights. It fosters deeper connections with locals, enabling journalists to uncover stories often missed by others. Linguistic dexterity allows for more accurate and culturally sensitive reporting.

SEO and Digital Analytics: High-ranking content on search engine results pages ensures captivating travel stories reach a wider audience. Analyzing digital metrics helps journalists understand reader behaviors and preferences, tailoring future articles for maximum engagement and visibility.

Ethical Reporting: Travel journalists balance accurately representing cultures, locations, and experiences without exploiting or misrepresenting them. Their reporting respects the dignity and diversity of the communities they cover, requiring a commitment to fairness, accuracy, and thoughtful consideration of the impact their stories may have.

Travel Journalist Work Environment

A travel journalist’s work environment is as varied as the destinations they cover. Their office can range from a bustling city café to a tranquil beach, with the constant companion of a laptop or camera. The tools of their trade are digital and portable, emphasizing the need for reliable technology and internet connectivity wherever they go.

Work hours are unconventional, often dictated by the story they are chasing rather than a 9-to-5 schedule, offering a high degree of flexibility but also demanding adaptability to time zones and local customs. Dress codes are equally fluid, adapting to the cultural norms of their current location.

The pace can be fast, with tight deadlines and quick turnarounds, but it’s balanced by periods of travel and exploration. Interaction with others is a core part of the job, requiring strong communication skills and a genuine interest in different cultures. This role offers unique opportunities for professional development through immersive experiences and continuous learning about the world.

Advancement Prospects

Travel journalists can elevate their careers by diversifying their storytelling mediums, venturing into video reporting, and podcasting to capture a wider audience. Specializing in niche markets such as eco-tourism, luxury travel, or culinary explorations can set them apart and open doors to exclusive stories and destinations.

Building a strong personal brand through social media and a personal blog can attract freelance opportunities with prestigious travel magazines and websites. Experienced travel journalists often transition into authoring travel guides or books, leveraging their extensive knowledge and unique perspectives on travel.

Securing a role as a travel editor or content director for a major publication is a pinnacle achievement, requiring a deep portfolio of work and industry recognition. This position allows for influencing the travel narrative and mentoring upcoming travel writers.

What Does a Digital Transformation Leader Do?

What does an it executive do, you may also be interested in..., what does a corporate services manager do, 15 airport security officer skills for your career and resume, 12 project management intern skills for your career and resume, what does a publix produce clerk do.

TrekFunTrek

Never stop exploring

In 2023, Discover How I’m Earning the Best Salary in Travel Journalism!

• Budget Travel
• Solo Travel
• Travel Vacations

Updated on 29 Nov 2023

Reviewed by amarjeet barnwal.

Hey friends! Have you ever thought about getting paid to explore amazing places around the world? Let’s dive into the exciting world of travel journalism salaries – it’s where awesome adventures meet cool paychecks!

Travel Journalism Salaries

Quick stats on average salaries:.

So, here’s the thing: I learned that travel journalists in the U.S. make about $71,789 a year on average. That’s a lot of money for travelling and writing stories, don’t you think? But remember, this is just an average. Some travel journalists earn more, and some earn less.  Wave Accounting  has a great list of travel writing jobs for beginners, which is a good starting point for understanding the pay range.

Hourly Rates and Annual Trends

If we talk about hourly rates, it’s around $34.51.  Imagine making that kind of money while you’re having fun in a place like Paris or exploring the mountains ! But these numbers keep changing, especially with all the cool stuff happening in digital media. Travel journalists are always finding new and exciting ways to make money. For more on this, check out  Goats On The Road , where they list 99 travel publications that pay up to $4,000.

What Factors Influence Salaries?

Experience, location, and skill level, experience counts:, starting out.

When you’re just starting as a travel journalist, like me, the pay isn’t huge. But that’s okay because we’re just beginning our adventure, right?  That Travel Blog  offers insights into publications that pay for travel writing, which is perfect for beginners.

As you travel more and write more stories, guess what? The money gets better! It’s like levelling up in a game. More experience means a bigger paycheck.

Related Travels

Seasoned Pros

The travel journalists who have been doing this for a long time? They make really good money. It’s like a reward for all their amazing adventures and stories .

Location Matters:

High-cost cities.

Ever noticed that people in big cities like New York or San Francisco seem to have more money? That’s because it’s more expensive to live there, so they get paid more.

Global Variations

Travel journalism is a worldwide thing. Salaries change a lot from one country to another, depending on how much things cost there and how many stories people want to read.

Remote Work Impact

Nowadays, lots of people work from wherever they want, even from their homes! This is changing how much travel journalists make, and it’s pretty cool.  Location Indie  shares some companies that hire travel writers and gives you an idea of how much they pay.

Skill Level and Specialization:

Niche expertise.

If you’re really good at writing about a special kind of travel, like adventures in the jungle or luxury resorts , you can make more money.

Multifaceted Skills

Can you take awesome photos or make cool videos while writing your stories? That can help you earn even more!

Language Skills

If you can speak more than one language, that’s a huge plus. It means you can write stories for more people and, yes, get paid more for it.

And that’s what I found out about how travel journalists make their money. It’s all about where you are, what you can do, and how long you’ve been exploring and writing. Isn’t that exciting?

Top Paying Cities for Travel Journalists

Spotlight on san jose, ca, and oakland, ca.

Hey guys! Did you know some cities are like treasure chests for travel journalists? Take San Jose and Oakland in California. These cities are amazing for travel writers. They pay a lot because it’s pretty pricey to live there. So, if you’re writing stories in these cities, you’re in for a good treat!

Salary Differences Across Major Cities

But here’s the thing – not all cities pay the same. In some big places, travel journalists make a lot of money. In others, not so much. It’s like every city decides how much to pay us adventurers who write.

Breaking Down the Salary Range

Understanding the common salary range.

Okay, so most travel journalists earn an amount that’s somewhere between ‘okay’ and ‘wow, that’s awesome!’ The pay can vary a lot. It really depends on how skilled you are and your experience level.  Glassdoor  gives a good idea of the different salaries out there.

What Top Earners in the Field Make

The really experienced travel journalists, the ones who’ve been doing this for years, earn big bucks. We’re talking about a super impressive salary. It’s like being a superstar in the world of travel writing.

Related Jobs in Journalism with Higher Salaries

Exploring similar fields with better pay.

Now, if you’re curious about other journalism jobs that pay more, there’s a lot to explore. Some journalists who report big news or work on TV, earn more than us travel writers. It’s like having different kinds of yummy ice cream – some flavours are just more popular. For more on journalism salaries, check out  the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

How These Roles Compare to Travel Journalism:

Sure, these jobs might offer more money, but travel journalism has its awesome perks. It’s about choosing between a bigger paycheck and experiencing amazing adventures around the world. For me, getting paid to write about my travel experiences ? That’s living the dream!

And that’s the inside scoop on the best cities for travel journalism pay, what we can expect to earn, and how it compares to other journalism jobs.

Future of Travel Journalism Salaries

Trends and predictions.

Guys! Ever wonder what’s next for travel journalists like us in terms of money? It’s super exciting! People are saying that as more folks read our stories online, we might start making more dough. It’s like our adventures and words are getting more valuable because everyone’s hooked to their screens, reading and exploring the world through us.

How Digital Media Impacts Salaries

Let me tell you, digital media is totally changing the game. We’ve got websites, blogs, and social media – so many cool ways to share our journeys. And the best part? This could mean more cash for us travel writers! It’s like having a bunch of new doors to open, each leading to awesome opportunities. The better we get at using these digital platforms, the more we can earn. For more on this, check out  Pew Research Center’s Journalism & Media  for insights on digital media trends.

Conclusion:  Is Travel Journalism Worth It?

Balancing passion and pay.

Okay, so is being a travel journalist all worth it? It’s not just about the paycheck, you know. Sure, earning money is cool, but it’s also about loving the journey. It’s choosing a life where you get to see amazing places, meet incredible people , and share their stories. And if you can earn some cash while doing what you love? That’s like hitting the jackpot!

Final Thoughts on Career Prospects

In the end, being a travel journalist is more than a job – it’s a lifestyle. If you’re super into travelling and sharing stories , this could be your dream career. The money might go up and down, but the experiences you’ll have? Totally priceless. It’s all about finding that perfect mix of adventure and storytelling. And with the way digital media is growing, who knows how bright our future could be! For more on career prospects in journalism,  The Balance Careers  offers some great insights.

And that’s my take on the future of travel journalism salaries and wrapping up thoughts on this adventurous career path. It’s a world filled with endless stories and thrilling experiences.

Travel Journalism – Your Curious Questions

Do travel journalists make a lot of money.

Well, it depends! Some travel journalists make a pretty sweet amount, especially if they’ve been doing it for a long time or work in high-paying cities like San Jose or Oakland. But when you’re just starting, it might not be a lot. It’s kind of like levelling up in a video game – the more you play (or, in this case, write and travel), the more you can earn!

How do I become a travel journalist?

Becoming a travel journalist is like starting an adventure . First, you must love travelling and writing. You can start by writing a blog or articles about your travels , then maybe study journalism or writing. It’s also super helpful to learn about photography or making videos. And don’t forget, practice makes perfect!

What is the highest-paid type of journalist?

The highest-paid journalists are usually those who work in big news, like covering major events or working for large TV networks. They’re like the big players in the journalism world. But remember, while travel journalists might not always make as much, they get to explore the world and share amazing stories, which is pretty cool, too!

What is the salary of a travel journalist per month?

The monthly salary of a travel journalist can vary a lot. On average, in the U.S., it might be around $6,000 a month, but this can change based on where you are, your experience, and how skilled you are. Just starting, it might be less, but as you get better and more known, that number can go up!

Share this post

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Breaking into travel journalism: advice from the experts

A passion for travel and the ability to string a sentence together will not qualify you as a travel journalist. Find out what will in the best bits from our recent travel journalism Q&A

• Looking to become a writer? Browse and apply for a range of journalist jobs at Guardian Jobs

Jill Starley-Grainger is a freelance journalist specialising in ethical and luxury travel

Use your blog to showcase to editors what you can do: They would want to see that you can write well-crafted, engaging copy, that you can sniff out good angles and that you are dedicated enough to have stuck with the blog for more than a few posts. Once you start getting commissions chances are your blog will slide. If you are getting paid travel writing gigs, then your time for unpaid work will rapidly diminish. But until you get those paid commissions, a blog is a good, easy starting point. As for getting followers, don't worry about that. Focus on well-crafted, insightful travel journalism, perhaps with a niche angle, such as 'travelling with a baby' or 'all about Germany', and if your writing is up to scratch, people will follow you. Trying to SEO the heck out of your copy will only make it seem stilted.

You need to be able to dig out the angles the travel guides don't cover: So many people think that because they are passionate about travel and can string a sentence together, that qualifies them to be a travel journalist. It doesn't. You need to understand how to dig out facts - and to determine that they are facts - and how to find hidden gems and insider info. If it's already in a guidebook, what are you adding to it? And you need to know how to write. I really can't stress that enough. It's a skill and not everyone has it, but so many people think they do. But you can learn it.

Travel journalism is hard work and the pay isn't always great either: Forget fantasies of being sent round the world on an assignment with a huge commission, all expenses paid, and having endless days lolling on the beach or people-watching in cafes. Very few publications pay freelancers' travel expenses (and getting a full-time writing or editing job on a major travel publication is just not going to happen until you have years of experience, and even then, chances are slim). Take a sample 1,000 word feature. If you are lucky and have years of experience, you might be commissioned to write a 1,000-word travel feature for a major publication. You will need to spend around a day crafting the pitch that wins the commission in the first place, three to five days working out your itinerary and arranging accommodation and so on. Another three to five days on the trip. Then at least two to four days writing the article to a standard high enough for this type of publication. If you are lucky, for this, you will be paid £400.

If you are pitching unusual destinations, make sure you've got a good angle: Breaking in by going to less popular locations - this is a tricky one. On the one hand, going somewhere unusual definitely gives you an edge. On the other hand, it's hard to commission those features. The fact is, most people want to read about destinations they actually want to go to or are interested in. Hence the huge number of articles on France, Italy and so on. This is because it is these types of articles that sell papers and magazines.

On the other hand, people do like reading about unusual destinations, so while editors might not have as much scope to commission those places, if you pitch a good angle for one of them, then when they do come to commission a quirky one, your pitch might just be in the back of their mind. But do not pitch just a general 'guide' to an unusual destination. You still need an angle, whether it's Baku's beach scene or skiing in Iraq.

Emily Mathieson is Word of Mouth editor at Condé Nast Traveller Demonstrating your knowledge and understanding of the magazine will endear you to an editor: The simple best way to get your writing published (and get paid for it) is to actually read the publication you're pitching to. I am constantly surprised by how many people send me ideas that are clearly not relevant to the section I edit, or to Condé Nast Traveller in general (no, we don't review youth hostels). If someone begins a pitch by clearly demonstrating their knowledge and understanding of the magazine, I am always more likely to read on.

Pitches which paraphrase press releases won't be welcome. Keep it short, sweet and to the point. But PLEASE don't just paraphrase a press release. It's likely I'll already have seen it, and why would I pay someone to do something I could do myself?

Include a signature at the bottom of your e-mail with your specialisms. I find it really helpful if writers have a signature at the bottom of their e-mail telling me about them, the specialisms and where they live (and it's also often helpful if you can remind me at the beginning of an email who you are too). This will often jog my memory, or help me decide why a particular person is suitable for a certain piece.

Amanda Statham is travel editor of Cosmopolitan and You & Your Wedding magazines

A potted guide to pitching:

- Keep it short - no travel editor has half an hour to wade through 10 pages of pitch. - Know the publication - I'm always being offered pieces for my Cosmopolitan travel news page. There isn't a Cosmo travel news page... - Check to see what the publication has covered recently; if it has covered your story or specific place, don't pitch. - If you refer the travel editor to your personal website, make sure it works and is up-to-date. - Have an original hook; amazingly, backpacking around Thailand has been covered before. Pat Riddell is the editor of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

Twitter can help your industry knowledge and give you ideas for pitches: Follow journalists, editors, newspapers and magazines but also follow travel blogs, tourist boards, airlines, tour operators, attractions, museums, hotel groups and so on. The more you know about travel and how it 'works', the better. Which destinations will be talked about in 2013, where are the new air routes, what are the new attractions... these are the pitches for the future. And by establishing a Twitter presence you can make a name for yourself as well as boosting traffic to your blog - or indeed titles you've written for.

Glen Mutel is the editor of ABTA Magazine and a regular columnist and contributor for National Geographic Traveller

Different approaches suit different titles: For trade titles such as ABTA Magazine, we've already got a fair idea of the destinations we want to cover over the next six to 12 months. So, unlike other titles, we don't necessarily want budding writers to pitch us specific angles. Instead, I'd much sooner be sent a short email, detailing where a writer has been and where they know, with links to previous examples of their work. This last bit is absolutely crucial. Many travel editors will already have a list of writers that they rely on and it can be hard to get them to try new people. I've learned to turn a deaf ear when writers tell me they've written for the nationals, because it's so seldom a guarantee they can write. I'd much sooner they show me specific examples of their work - proof they can put words in a readable order. If they can do that, there's a good chance I'll try them out with a general destination feature. Then, a few pieces down the line, I'll start accepting ideas from them.

Postgraduate courses can equip you with everything you need: I don't think the type of degree is necessarily that important. Earlier this year we were looking to fill the deputy editor position, and I don't think we looked to hard at the type of degree. What mattered more was whether there was some type of postgraduate qualification - it needn't be an MA. There are several shorter postgraduate schemes that can equip you with everything you need (I did a three-month course with PMA ).

Peter Grunert is the editor of Lonely Planet Magazine

A particular specialism might give you an advantage: I definitely believe it's a good idea to build a rapport with a commissioning editor before sending them a pitch. They will need to know that you share a wavelength and will also want to see evidence of the quality of your writing - ideally, writing that would suit their publication. I also feel that anyone with a specialism has an advantage. Are you based in a particularly interesting location? Can you bring fascinating travel insights from the point of view of someone who has great knowledge of art, motoring, history, sports and so on?

Check out all the advice from the live Q&A here .

This content is brought to you by Guardian Professional . To get more content and advice like this direct to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Careers update .

• Guardian Careers
• Best of ...
• Journalism careers

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

Travel Journalists

We’re often asked “what’s the difference between travel writing and travel journalism ”.

The answer is …..not a lot. But it IS more than just semantics!

While they are similar in many ways, often overlap, and both sometimes share the narrative essay format, there are key differences .

So what IS travel journalism? The difference between Travel Writing and Travel Journalism

• …a travel writer generally writes about a place , and does so in a way that allows the reader to visualize the experience. Travel Writing can — and frequently does — serve as a ‘review’ of sorts (aka “service pieces”) intended to encourage travel and tourism, to make readers want to go visit that place , whereas…
• … a travel journalist generally tells a story involving people that is unique to that place , and does so in a way that relays the facts. The intent of most Travel Journalism is to encourage a broader view and wider understanding of the world we live in, to make readers want to meet those people .

When a story takes on elements of creativity that have no basis in fact , then it’s still Travel Writing , but definitely NOT Travel Journalism!

How to Become a Travel Journalist

Before Diving In – Key Factors to Consider:

• If you want to become a travel journalist, first and foremost you must love to write . You must be articulate and skilled at communicating. And — obviously — you must enjoy traveling, meeting people, researching facts, and crafting a compelling story from what you learn.
• It’s also important to know that most media outlets have dramatically scaled back their ‘staff’ writer positions, and instead rely on freelance submissions for content. This means there are very few ‘jobs’ available and a large pool of highly qualified travel writers and travel journalists competing for them.

But don’t get discouraged! A writer who works hard can make a good living as a freelance travel journalist, as the vast number of online travel media outlets coupled with a ceaseless demand for content means that there are more opportunities than ever before for getting published, and there are still outlets that will pay for good quality articles and stories – and for those concerned about the new AI writing tools, it’s my personal opinion that it will still be a few years before those tools are good enough to not require editing and ( most importantly ) fact-checking, as they still produce some error-ridden content. Use the tools to help you, but be sure to humanize whatever content you get from using them to avoid problems.

( Be sure to check out our page “ Top 10 Travel Writing Courses “, which lists several that – in addition to writing skills – will teach you how to take your earnings from writing to the highest level .)

Tips on How to become a Travel Journalist

• Choose the right course of study . You can go for a four-year general journalism degree at a top journalism school , which will certainly open doors, OR ( to save a boatload of money ) consider an online writing course specifically for travel journalism ( as well as travel photography ) such as Roy Stevenson’s Online Travel Writing & Marketing Master Class , which can help open the RIGHT doors.   WHILE a degree is NOT necessary if you plan to remain a freelancer , if you’re looking for a steady-paycheck type of job, it can make a difference, as typically when a job opening for a travel journalist is announced, often the majority of applicants are those with journalism degrees and many years of experience that qualifies them.
• Consider a mentoring relationship like the one offered by (the aforementioned) Roy Stevenson, who offers both group and one-on-one coaching – although you must already have good writing skills and some byline history, Roy is a very successful professional who can teach you how to take your career to a higher level of publication and earning. ( Be sure to scroll down to view his requirements – this is NOT a writing course, it’s a coaching class for working writers and journalists ).
• Consider an internship . Sometimes the best way into a staff job at a media outlet is to start as an intern , and although interns are often selected from an applicant pool filled with journalism or communications students, it’s not always the case – sometimes those with good writing skills, a passion for the job, and a positive and enthusiastic mindset will get the internship . It’s a great way to learn the ropes and build a network (see below) of industry contacts, that you can then use to learn about upcoming-but-unposted job opportunities.   Sometimes you have to create your own internships ….if a travel writing internship isn’t advertised, call an Editor at a publication (online or offline) that you’d like to work for and offer to be an intern.
• Decide the type of travel journalism you would like to pursue — such as newspapers, magazines, television, or online — each has a different style and requires different skills.
• Develop a network of other travel writers, editors, and publishers. The best way to do this is to attend writing workshops and writers conferences where you can continue your education, learn to improve your writing, and make new professional contacts.
• Start small, with your local paper or a local magazine – read enough back issues to see what types of stories and articles they generally publish, and what they’ve not published lately – if you can provide them with something that fits, contact the editor and pitch your idea.
• Visit job boards . For example, check out freelancewriting.com .

High Quality Resources for Travel Writers & Travel Journalists:

In our opinion, before you ever put pen to paper, you should check out these very affordable ebooks to learn how to get started:

• 125 Websites That Want to Publish Your Travel Stories
• 100 Print Magazines That Want to Publish YOUR Travel Articles
• How to land Press Trips and Fam Tours (special report)
• How to Break into the Luxury Travel Writing Market
• The Complete Guide to Marketing and Selling Your Travel Articles
• The Complete Guide to Query Letters for Travel Writers

How to become a Travel Journalist — Additional Resources:

Consider joining a writer’s organization such as the Society of Professional Journalists . A one-year membership will cost you $72, but a journalism organization is a great way to find opportunities to learn and improve your skills, develop a network, build relationships with publishers and editors, and find market leads.

Don’t forget to read Top 10 Travel Writing Courses – our curated list of editor-approved online courses that are very affordably priced and will teach you everything you need to know about building a career as a travel writer or a travel journalist.     Disclaimer: SOME of the above links are ‘affiliate’ links and TWE earns a small amount from your purchase – this helps us to maintain this website and continue to provide valuable information. HOWEVER, we only promote products and services that we believe will be of greatest benefit you in the pursuit of a career in travel writing and/or travel journalism.

• Making Money
• Travel Journalism
• Travel Journalist
• Travel Writing

All material on this site is subject to Copyright © 2008 - 2019. All Rights Reserved. No reprint/republication of any materials from this site without written permission from TWE.

Trending Post : Best Freelance Business Ideas to Start in 2023

The Freelance Hustle contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure  for the finer details on what that means.

How to Become a Travel Writer in 2024 (& Get Paid For It)

Wondering how to become a travel writer?

I have to admit, I stumbled into it. 

While I always thought it was a cool idea, I really didn’t have a ton of travel experience—I’d been on a plane a handful of times, and had only left the country twice. Both on short-term trips—so, honestly, I figured I didn’t fit the bill.

Travel writing was a far-off, barely-there dream for me. But when I started building a future in freelance writing, I certainly didn’t have it anywhere close to the horizon.

Then, out of the blue, I got an email from a travel editor. 

I had apparently applied for a writing job with them (which I swear I didn’t remember doing) and they were interested in working together.

I know, scam alert.

But the company was real, the editor really worked for them, and her email was official. They wanted me to do a test SEO rewrite on one of their articles, and they’d pay me via PayPal.

I was brand new to freelancing, and I didn’t exactly have anyone with a wad full of cash knocking down my door. So, naturally I went for it.

Fast forward four years…

I’ve written hundreds of travel-related pieces, covering everything from cool destinations to what to pack and wear while you travel. I’ve written for some HUGE websites and a few smaller ones. And I can tell you, I LOVE travel writing.

I am living proof that you can legitimately make money writing about travel, even if you have no experience. Better yet, eventually you can make money writing about travel while you’re traveling!

What is travel writing?

Before we get too far into it, let’s talk about what travel writing is. And, more importantly, what it isn’t.

One one hand, travel writing is the art of sharing stories about people, places and things that are not in your own backyard. 

That said, there are  writers  in the travel vertical that specialize in places where they live. If you live in a unique destination that sees visitors, then penning in-depth insider content or local guidebooks could be a great path for you.

Professionally speaking, most travel writers make the bulk of their income penning pieces that are more focused on the  hows, whats  and  wheres  of travel. That is, they write travel advice content.

This is the travel space I primarily write in.

You’re unlikely to find me crafting a feature about taking an African safari fit with gorgeous photographs. But if you’re looking for a gal that can tell you the technical ins-and-outs of the best time to purchase a cheap plane ticket, that’s me.

Travel writing like every other niche is filled with sub-niches. It’s your job to carve out your own.

Trying to land more clients and projects? You need the Essential Pitch Pack! YES PLEASE »

But travel writing is NOT…

Look, travel writing is not what Instagram makes it out to be. I would love to be sipping bellinis beachside with my laptop in a pair of designer sunglasses, a comped bikini, at a fully-paid for hotel. That’s not what’s going to happen.

Honestly, I have a beach in my literal backyard, and while working on it is really cool – it’s not glamorous, and there’s a TON of sand involved.

Before you get too far into planning your dream travel writing career, you need to know that travel writing is not…

• Getting paid to travel —While some BIG travel writers legitimately do make money traveling, most of us merely sell our experiences. That means no one hands me a check and says book a flight to Turkey, but I do get paid for telling stories about my travel experiences and can expense some parts of my trips. It might not be the full dream, but it still counts.
• Writing about your family vacation —unless it was unique and amazing, no one wants to know that your father-in-law wore a banana coloured speedo on the beach, or that your kids loved Mickey’s ToonTown. The caveat to this is that you  can  share these things on your own blog.
• A huge paycheck —I personally don’t know any writers that ONLY work on travel content. Most operate like I do where one of our verticals or niches is travel but it certainly doesn’t make up our whole income.
• Easy to get into —From what I’ve gathered my experience of getting into the industry with no travel articles to my name and limited familiarity was a fluke. Most people rack up a whole blog’s worth of content or start in a different vertical and make a lateral move before they make money selling travel work.
• Always a stable industry —If you asked me about job security last year I would have told you that people always travel so there’s always an appetite for content on it—2020 decided to prove that hypothesis wrong.

These realities are not meant to sway you from going down this path. 

If you really want it and you’re willing to work for it, chances are you can get there. Just don’t quit your day job tomorrow to freelance in travel.

How to become a travel writer and get paid

Now that the formalities are out of the way, let’s dig into the meat of why you’re here: you’ve got at least some interest in becoming a travel writer, and you’ve got no idea how to get there.

No problem.

If you’ve got a little patience, time and passion, I can teach you how I became a travel writer, and started making a little money. But first, you’re going to need to do a few things…

1. Start writing clips

My story aside, you do actually need some past examples if you want to become a travel writer.

In fact, I left a little out of my story at the beginning. While I truly don’t recall applying for my first gig, I do actually know why I got it and I didn’t have NO experience at all, just none in travel specifically.

I’ve actually been a writer my entire career. I took my bachelor’s majoring in journalism, then my master’s and wrote in-house for government agencies and professional services firms all well-before I started freelancing.

And, while I didn’t have anything travel-specific, why I did have was a solid, demonstrable knowledge of search engine optimization . The original gig that I got was updating 50-something articles from an SEO perspective, after that was done I was moved to their regular pool of freelancers.

In fact, though I do take the odd piece that’s more pure travel, I’ve stuck it out on the marketing content side of travel writing because that’s what I love doing.

All this is to say that if you want to become a travel writer, you need to show them that you can do the job. You do that by producing travel clips. 

Clips, for those of us just starting out, are examples.

In most cases, you’ll want these clips to be published on someone else’s site—the bigger the better. But when you’re starting out, that’s less likely to be an option. With that in mind, there are two places I recommend testing out your skills:

• A shared revenue site where you can possibly earn a little side cash like Medium or Vocal
• Your own blog

To be honest, I recommend doing both. Though, long-term I think having your own blog is more important because you can  monetize it .

There are some REALLY important things to keep in mind if you want to make money with your pen (AKA keyboard since it’s 2022). You want to make sure that your content:

• Has no errors
• Has a beginning, middle and end
• A genuine point
• Is built with SEO in mind (even writers who don’t specialize in marketing content NEED to know how to optimize articles)
• Has a killer headline. You can use CoSchedule’s headline analyzer to help you out with that.

While this is slightly (but only slightly) less important, you’ll also want to start building an online presence, including opening a social media profile or two. Photos and videos are both big in this area, so an Instagram account is a good start. If you have your own blog, Pinterest is also something too look at.

2. Get feedback on your writing

When I first started reaching out to prospective clients, it never occured to me to get feedback. As someone who’s been writing for my entire career, I should have known better. But, alas, I didn’t.

I wish I did.

I’ve learned a ton of things over the years, but there’s a few that I could have learned faster had I just asked. So, I humbly suggest that you get someone to give you feedback on your first few BEFORE you start shipping them off and asking for work.

You do not have to ask an actual editor to read your work for feedback (though you certainly can). Anyone you trust will do. The point of it is to (a) double-check that you don’t have any crazy grammar or spelling mistakes, no matter how many times you look over something, things still get missed, and (b) the piece is engaging.

This process sounds A LOT scarier than it really is. I totally understand not wanting to show people your work before you’re ready or you get the money in your account—but as someone who does this for a living, I can tell you this never goes away. So, slash that ice right now.

Eventually, people are going to pour over your work. They’ll slash it to bits and deliver you the pieces in blood-colored text, so you may as well start practicing receiving that feedback sooner rather than later.

3. Set up a writing business

I’m not going to dig too much into this topic but I think it’s important to touch on. BEFORE you start making money, you really should look into the requirements of running a sole proprietorship in your jurisdiction.

When you make an income from anything you need to pay taxes. When it’s an income that’s self-reported, there are additional responsibilities. And simply not paying taxes (even if you think they’re dumb) is a bad idea because it often results in having to pay more later on.

To be clear, I’m not a lawyer or accountant. So, you should absolutely speak to one if you have real questions, I highly recommend looking into what you need to do and report wherever you live.

You’ll also want to have:

• Some way to accept payment
• Some way to make and send invoices
• Some way to record income

For all of these things, I use Bonsai (which has a free trial so you can test it out). I really LOVE it and after ditching it and trying pretty much all of the recommended software out there, I eventually went back to Bonsai.

Finally, writers should have insurance. It’s not a thing we talk about a lot, but it is important. In my jurisdiction (Canada), this insurance is called errors and omissions insurance.

And, honestly, it’s not that expensive. I pay less than $350 a year for ALL of the insurance that covers my business which includes errors and omissions. If you have questions about insurance and what you should have, reach out to a lawyer or insurance broker. They’ll know what you need.

4. Create a pitching list

Most websites that have any semblance of a lifestyle section publish travel-related articles. Now, that doesn’t necessarily mean they hire  freelance writers –some have in-house staff that take care of these specific verticals. But it doesn’t hurt to ask.

With some work under your belt, it’s time to scope out travel-related opportunities.

There are some great resources where you can find work of all kinds, including travel. I recommend checking out:

• Who Pays Writers
• Freelance Writing Jobs
• All Freelance Writing

Beyond looking at job boards, I can tell you a few places that might take something travel-related. But it is really important that you take a peek at their requirements before you submit a pitch. Here are a few places you can check out:

• Popsugar Voices
• Great Escape Publishing
• Matador Network
• GoWorld Travel Magazine
• Horizon Guides
• Verge Magazine

Please note : I do not write for or have any association with any of the above places at this time. I’ve never tried pitching them, so I don’t know their processes, how easy or hard they are or what they pay.

It’s also important for me to stop here quickly and tell you a hard-and-fast freelancer’s rule: unless a publication specifically asks for something that’s already written, submit only a pitch.

5. Write a thoughtful pitch and send it

Once you’ve found a few places that you’d like to submit your work, start crafting some pitches.

Pitches are essentially ideas for articles that will fit in with the outlet you’re hitting up. These ideas are more in-depth than simply dropping a title in an email and saying I want to write for you.

When you pitch , you want to define:

• A suggested title
• What you want to talk about
• What angle you’re going to take
• Who you are
• Why you should be the one to write about the piece and not anyone else
• And don’t forget to include links to some of your sample work!

Pitching sucks. I STILL hate doing it. But it’s a part of working for yourself as a writer, so it’s something you’ll want to started on.

You’ll make mistakes when you pitch—seriously, I STILL do. So, write your pitch. Double-check it. Run it by someone if you have a confidant you trust and see if there are any quick fixes you can do to improve. Then send it and move on.

If you haven’t heard anything from the publication in a week or two, it’s totally fair game to circle around and follow up. A simple, I just wanted to follow up and see if you were interested in this will do.

It’s also important to stop here again and say, do not submit the same pitch to multiple outlets. It’s VERY bad practice, reserved for times where you have no choice—for example, you have a very timely piece that needs to be published ASAP. If you’re a beginner, you’re probably not there yet. Don’t feel bad if you get a rejection or, worse yet, hear nothing back. It happens to all of us.

Stick to one pitch per outlet. If you don’t hear from then in a while, then you can move onto the next. In most cases, I’d give it 14 days, at least, but check their writer guidelines to see if they have a predetermined time frame set out.

6. Rinse and repeat

This is the part of the article where I tell you that becoming a writer can really suck at times. Most pitches you send will be rejected or ignored.

This is not a reflection on you or your work—unless your work sucks, then maybe it is. But in most cases, editor’s inboxes are STACKED with pitches. They only have so much room and budget to hire contractors.

So, if you don’t get a yes right away, that doesn’t mean that you’ll never become a travel writer. It just means you need to give it some time. Keep creating sample work and keep reaching out. If you try enough times, someone says yes.

What other verticals go well with travel writing?

I said right at the beginning that relying on travel content only to make what you need to live is a mistake that most of us find out sooner rather than later. But if all you want is to become a travel writer, you might not have any ideas of what else you could write about without straying too far.

No problem, I can give you a few ideas.

In most cases, travel is more of a lifestyle topics. So, if you want to stretch your writing legs and do some more practice work (or get paid more) you could try out another lifestyle vertical. Examples could include:

• Relationships and dating
• Product reviews
• Personal finance

Writing in other verticals can be a good way to back-door some by-lined work that has a travel angle for your portfolio, and still make money while you do it.

Almost all of the above verticals could have a travel association. For example, you could write about the next romantic place to visit for couples in love or the best makeup to pack in your carry-on bag without overloading your liquids allotment.

If you already have a regular gig in some other lifestyle vertical (or you get one before you start travel writing), you could always pitch a piece or two that has a travel angle to it and possible get a piece published that way.

What about writing guest posts?

A lot of people talk about using guest posts to boost your street cred in the beginning—whether or not you’re aiming to become a travel writer. And I can tell you that while I don’t have a problem with it, I’ve never guest posted anywhere to gain followers or get a published piece.

There are A LOT of benefits with guest posting—which you can find by simply Googling them—but I’ve always had the mentality that if I’m going to create something for free, I’m going to do it for me.

So, any piece that I might have guested has gone onto one of my blogs, my Medium profile or somewhere else where I could boost my own output or possibly put money in my pocket.

By no means am I saying that guest posting is a bad idea. I don’t think that at all. I’m just not the one to tell you about how to do it or why you should because I’ve never done it myself. But if that ever changes, I’ll let you know.

Is travel writing for me?

Becoming a travel writer is just like becoming a writer in any other vertical. It’s not right for everyone, even some of those that are passionate about it don’t find it to be a fulfilling job.

And there’s nothing wrong with that.

If you get into travel writing and decide that it’s simply not the vertical for you, then move onto the next. It’s OK to decide that you don’t want to do something, even if you’ve already started it.

I did a lot of personal and commercial finance writing earlier on, only to find out it wasn’t my favourite thing in the world. There are definitely aspects of it that I LOVE but a lot of the work I was doing I wasn’t passionate about.

While I didn’t completely drop it from my roster, I did severely slim down the contracts I took, sticking with things that I was truly passionate about.

It’s OK to change your mind, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Final thoughts: How to become a travel writer

Travel writing is NOT for everyone, and because it’s such a *fun* niche to work in, there’s A LOT of competition. But if you’ve been daydreaming about travel writing, there’s no time like the present to try.

I stumbled into travel writing, and I can tell you that I still do a lot of travel writing these days. I’ll admit, it’s not the most lucrative niche that I’ve written in — but I’ve also learned in my time as a freelancer, there’s more to consider than just the money.

My best advice to sit mix your travel writing with a second, slightly more lucrative niche — like technology or business. This way they can balance each other out and provide you with a combination of fun and money.

Travel writing FAQs

What is the average travel writer salary.

Unless you’re a staff writer for a big publication, getting a “salary” as a travel writer is not likely something that will happen. In most cases, you’ll set a rate by project (or piece) or by word (submitted or published, depending on the publication). Payment of $200-$400 per article isn’t uncommon for a seasoned travel writer but newer writers can make closer to $50-$100 per article.

Where can I find travel writer jobs?

Finding contract jobs for travel writing can be a bit of a challenge. In a lot of cases, you’ll want to pitch travel publications stories or become a staff writer. The more and better you write, the more jobs you’ll get. But if you’re just starting out a few of my favorite places to keep an eye out for entry-level work include ProBlogger and Freelance Writing Jobs.

Tae has been a freelance hustler since she walked into her cushy cubicle job one day in 2017, and handed in her notice. She's done everything from social media management to graphic design, but her real skills lie in her writing ability. As a professional writer, her work has been featured by KPMG and the Royal Bank of Canada to Skyscanner Canada and Travel Fashion Girl. She helps thousands weekly build their dream freelance hustle, right here on this fancy lil' blog!

Similar Posts

27+ Side Hustles for Nurses Who Want to Earn Extra Money

27 Side Hustles to Start With No Money

How to Invoice as a Freelancer: 11 Things You NEED to Include

How to Create a Freelance Website: The Complete Guide

35+ Profitable Freelance Writing Niches For 2024

Keyword Research and Use for Freelancers

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

The Six-Figure Travel Writer

How much can you really make as a travel writer.

But I know the idea of earning $100,000 a year from travel writing seems both far away and a bit preposterous to many folks who are just starting out and trying to figure out how to even earn their first $1 from something they’ve written.

So let’s step back and look at how much you can really expect to earn—and when—from three different avenues of travel writing.

Magazines Pay More; It’s a Fact

For quite small magazines, and we’re talking 5,000-25,000 readers here, $300-400 is a very normal rate . Magazines from major companies (that come with corresponding major headaches), even if you haven’t heard of them, typically pay $1 a word, so that say 1500-word piece the small magazine gave you $400 for would become $1500.

When you’re just starting out, it’s very easy to land a lot of these $300-400 articles. From larger magazines, you can definitely get shorter, whether that’s a very brief 100-to-300-word piece in the short, newsy “ front of book ” section of the magazine or a recurring column or “ department ” that ranges from 500 to 1500 words.

But Since Magazines Are “Scary,” How About Blogs?

I am delighted to say that now, in 2016, blog pay rates have finally started to get reasonable, even in random online ads.

It used to be that people would post ads for or email writers out of the blue about large jobs for which the pay was something like $10 or $20 for a 1000-word post and not understand why people were indignant about these rates.

One old client of mine originally posted an ad for blog posts looking to pay $35 for a relatively easy 500-word post. We got that up to $50, removing some responsibilities. Then, when she was having trouble attracting writers with the background she needed, she got clearance from the company’s founders to go up to $100, and she told me recently that the rate is up to $150 because they need people who are highly specialized and understand that’s the lowest they can go.

Even companies I talk to who only have a budget of $25 per post or so understand that this is causing them to miss out on skilled and specialized writers these days.

By and large $100-150 has become more of a standard baseline for blog posts, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get more. I had a client even four years ago that, right out of the gate in our first contract negotiation, was happy to pay $250-350 for 800-to-1200-word posts that didn’t require tons of research on my part.

If you’re just starting out in travel writing, but have written for a previous job and have a very specialized expertise in the travel industry from a destination level, you can easily command these $150-250 rates early on. If you are fresh to writing and to travel, it’s best to start with some gigs around $50 to get you footing though, rather than work with a client who offers a good rate and is expecting experience and let them down because you are not familiar with:

• how blog writing style is different than copywriting and print
• how to work with content strategy and blog calendars
• how to work with WordPress plug-ins and source photos

The Best of All is Copywriting

Travel copywriting assignments—when you write descriptions of products like tours or hotels—can often be both the fastest and most lucrative type of work to get.

I once had a client come to me and offer $6500 for just one month’s work…that was not even going to take up all my time that month. Many people that I know who specialized in travel copywriting command much more. This an area where we are looking at five-figure projects that you complete yourself. Rates are typically per project rather than per piece—or the per-piece rate is a function of the overall budget.

These projects are more likely to come in chunks than in on-going situations, though that can also happen. I’ve worked with villa rental companies who needed a certain number of listings each month for a flat rate per listing, which I believe was something like $50 (it was in British sterling, so I’m not 100% sure in dollar value at that time) per 150-to-200-word listing.

I you have a destination or region that you specialize in, this type of work can translate into writing itineraries, which is a great type of work to get because you can liberally recycle things you’ve written up before, since it’s going to a different traveler every time. These gigs can pay $75-150 per itinerary but have an incredibly high hourly rate as you can easily do at least three or four, if not more, an hour.

You’ll Earn the Most By Double or Triple Dipping Though

Once you’re doing one type of work consistently for a client or editor, it’s easy to slide into another—especially a more specialized (read: higher-paying) one:

• If you’re writing blog posts and their Twitter consists of once-a-week missives akin to “Read my latest post here www.omganakedlink.com/wtf…,” talk to your client about the importance of promotion to boost the reach of the work they’re already paying you for.
• If you’re writing for one magazine in a publishing house that produces several, ask your editor who edits another title and if they can put you in touch or pass on a pitch for you; it may even be the same person.
• If you’re writing blog posts for a small or start-up travel company, offer to ghostwrite posts “written by” the owner/CEO on other sites to boost the company’s profile.

And when you get several clients lined up in a similar or related area, you can recycle research and relevant ideas to save an insane amount of time (I’ve found at least half if not two thirds).

Let’s say you live in NYC and write about travel in the city in round-ups for a local magazine, on the blog of a tour company, and as the NYC correspondent for an international site like About.com or Viator.

When researching your round-up for the magazine, you may find three places that would make great blog posts for the tour company, which then spawn two how-to articles and two more round-ups for the website. When researching your round-up for the magazine, you may find three places that would make great blog posts for the tour company, which then spawn two how-to articles and two more round-ups for the website.

Want the first THREE chapters of The Six-Figure Travel Writing Road Map for FREE?

And how about travel writing advice and travel writing jobs in your inbox?

Let us know where to send it, and your free chapter will be on its way.

Thanks for letting us help you with your travel writing success! Check your email to confirm your subscription and get your free book chapters.

There was an error submitting your subscription. Please try again.

Related Post

• JEE Main 2024
• MHT CET 2024
• JEE Advanced 2024
• BITSAT 2024
• View All Engineering Exams
• Colleges Accepting B.Tech Applications
• Top Engineering Colleges in India
• Engineering Colleges in India
• Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• Engineering Colleges Accepting JEE Main
• Top IITs in India
• Top NITs in India
• Top IIITs in India
• JEE Main College Predictor
• JEE Main Rank Predictor
• MHT CET College Predictor
• AP EAMCET College Predictor
• GATE College Predictor
• KCET College Predictor
• JEE Advanced College Predictor
• View All College Predictors
• JEE Main Question Paper
• JEE Main Cutoff
• JEE Main Answer Key
• SRMJEEE Result
• Download E-Books and Sample Papers
• Compare Colleges
• B.Tech College Applications
• JEE Advanced Registration

Quick links

• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Aeronautical Engineering
• Information Technology
• Electronic Engineering

B.Tech Companion Use Now Your one-stop Counselling package for JEE Main, JEE Advanced and BITSAT

• MAH MBA CET Exam
• View All Management Exams

Colleges & Courses

• MBA College Admissions
• MBA Colleges in India
• Top IIMs Colleges in India
• Top Online MBA Colleges in India
• MBA Colleges Accepting XAT Score
• BBA Colleges in India
• XAT College Predictor 2024
• SNAP College Predictor
• NMAT College Predictor
• MAT College Predictor 2024
• CMAT College Predictor 2024
• CAT Percentile Predictor 2023
• CAT 2023 College Predictor
• CMAT 2024 Registration
• TS ICET 2024 Registration
• CMAT Exam Date 2024
• MAH MBA CET Cutoff 2024
• Download Helpful Ebooks
• List of Popular Branches
• QnA - Get answers to your doubts
• IIM Fees Structure
• LSAT India 2024
• Colleges Accepting Admissions
• Top Law Colleges in India
• Law College Accepting CLAT Score
• List of Law Colleges in India
• Top Law Colleges in Delhi
• Top Law Collages in Indore
• Top Law Colleges in Chandigarh
• Top Law Collages in Lucknow

Predictors & E-Books

• CLAT College Predictor
• MHCET Law ( 5 Year L.L.B) College Predictor
• AILET College Predictor
• Sample Papers
• Compare Law Collages
• Careers360 Youtube Channel
• CLAT Syllabus 2025
• CLAT Previous Year Question Paper
• AIBE 18 Result 2023

Engineering Preparation

• Knockout JEE Main 2024
• Test Series JEE Main 2024
• JEE Main 2024 Rank Booster

Medical Preparation

• Knockout NEET 2024
• Test Series NEET 2024
• Rank Booster NEET 2024

Online Courses

• JEE Main One Month Course
• NEET One Month Course
• IBSAT Free Mock Tests
• IIT JEE Foundation Course
• Knockout BITSAT 2024
• Career Guidance Tool
• IPU CET BJMC
• JMI Mass Communication Entrance Exam
• IIMC Entrance Exam
• Media & Journalism colleges in Delhi
• Media & Journalism colleges in Bangalore
• Media & Journalism colleges in Mumbai
• List of Media & Journalism Colleges in India
• Free Ebooks
• Free Sample Papers
• NID DAT Exam
• Pearl Academy Exam
• Design Colleges in India
• Fashion Design Colleges in India
• Top Interior Design Colleges in India
• Top Graphic Designing Colleges in India
• Fashion Design Colleges in Delhi
• Fashion Design Colleges in Mumbai
• Fashion Design Colleges in Bangalore
• Top Interior Design Colleges in Bangalore

Predictors & Articles

• NIFT College Predictor
• UCEED College Predictor
• NID DAT College Predictor
• NID DAT Syllabus 2025
• NID DAT 2025
• NIFT Result 2024
• NIFT Fees Structure
• NIFT Syllabus 2025
• Free Design E-books
• List of Branches
• Careers360 Youtube channel
• AIIMS Nursing
• Top Medical Colleges in India
• Top Medical Colleges in India accepting NEET Score
• Medical Colleges accepting NEET
• List of Medical Colleges in India
• List of AIIMS Colleges In India
• Medical Colleges in Maharashtra
• Medical Colleges in India Accepting NEET PG
• NEET College Predictor
• NEET PG College Predictor
• NEET MDS College Predictor
• DNB CET College Predictor
• DNB PDCET College Predictor
• NEET Admit Card 2024
• NEET PG Application Form 2024
• NEET Cut off
• NEET Online Preparation
• Download Helpful E-books

NEET Companion Use Now Your one-stop Counselling package for NEET, AIIMS and JIPMER

• CUET PG 2024
• IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2024
• DU Admission 2024
• UP B.Ed JEE 2024
• LPU NEST 2024
• IIT JAM 2024
• IGNOU Online Admission 2024
• Universities in India
• Top Universities in India 2024
• Top Colleges in India
• Top Universities in Uttar Pradesh 2024
• Top Universities in Bihar
• Top Universities in Madhya Pradesh 2024
• Top Universities in Tamil Nadu 2024
• Central Universities in India

Upcoming Events

• CUET Exam City Intimation Slip 2024
• IGNOU Date Sheet
• CUET Mock Test 2024
• CUET Admit card 2024
• CUET PG Syllabus 2024
• CUET Participating Universities 2024
• CUET Previous Year Question Paper
• CUET Syllabus 2024 for Science Students
• E-Books and Sample Papers
• CUET Exam Pattern 2024
• CUET Exam Date 2024
• CUET Syllabus 2024
• IGNOU Exam Form 2024
• IGNOU Result
• CUET Courses List 2024
• IT Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• IT Colleges in Uttar Pradesh
• MCA Colleges in India
• BCA Colleges in India

Quick Links

• Information Technology Courses
• Programming Courses
• Web Development Courses
• Data Analytics Courses
• Big Data Analytics Courses

Top Streams

• IT & Software Certification Courses
• Engineering and Architecture Certification Courses
• Programming And Development Certification Courses
• Business and Management Certification Courses
• Marketing Certification Courses
• Health and Fitness Certification Courses
• Design Certification Courses

Specializations

• Digital Marketing Certification Courses
• Cyber Security Certification Courses
• Artificial Intelligence Certification Courses
• Business Analytics Certification Courses
• Data Science Certification Courses
• Cloud Computing Certification Courses
• Machine Learning Certification Courses
• View All Certification Courses
• UG Degree Courses
• PG Degree Courses
• Short Term Courses
• Free Courses
• Online Degrees and Diplomas
• Compare Courses

Top Providers

• Coursera Courses
• Udemy Courses
• Edx Courses
• Swayam Courses
• upGrad Courses
• Simplilearn Courses
• Great Learning Courses
• NCHMCT JEE 2024
• Mah BHMCT CET
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Delhi
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Hyderabad
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Mumbai
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Maharashtra
• B.Sc Hotel Management
• Hotel Management
• Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology

Diploma Colleges

• Top Diploma Colleges in Maharashtra
• RUHS Pharmacy Admission Test
• Top Pharmacy Colleges in India
• Pharmacy Colleges in Pune
• Pharmacy Colleges in Mumbai
• Colleges Accepting GPAT Score
• Pharmacy Colleges in Lucknow
• List of Pharmacy Colleges in Nagpur
• GPAT Result
• GPAT 2024 Admit Card
• GPAT Question Papers
• CA Intermediate
• CA Foundation
• CS Executive
• CS Professional
• Difference between CA and CS
• Difference between CA and CMA
• CA Full form
• CMA Full form
• CS Full form
• CA Salary In India

Top Courses & Careers

• Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
• Master of Commerce (M.Com)
• Company Secretary
• Cost Accountant
• Charted Accountant
• Credit Manager
• Financial Advisor
• Top Commerce Colleges in India
• Top Government Commerce Colleges in India
• Top Private Commerce Colleges in India
• Top M.Com Colleges in Mumbai
• Top B.Com Colleges in India
• UPSC IAS 2024
• SSC CGL 2024
• IBPS RRB 2024
• NDA Application Form 2024
• UPSC IAS Application Form 2024
• CDS Application Form 2024
• CTET Admit card 2024
• HP TET Result 2023
• SSC GD Constable Admit Card 2024
• UPTET Notification 2024
• SBI Clerk Result 2024
• Previous Year Sample Papers
• Free Competition E-books
• Sarkari Result
• QnA- Get your doubts answered
• UPSC Previous Year Sample Papers
• CTET Previous Year Sample Papers
• SBI Clerk Previous Year Sample Papers
• NDA Previous Year Sample Papers

Other Exams

• SSC CHSL 2024
• UP PCS 2024
• UGC NET 2024
• RRB NTPC 2024
• IBPS PO 2024
• IBPS Clerk 2024
• IBPS SO 2024
• Top University in USA
• Top University in Canada
• Top University in Ireland
• Top Universities in UK
• Top Universities in Australia
• Best MBA Colleges in Abroad
• Business Management Studies Colleges

Top Countries

• Study in USA
• Study in UK
• Study in Canada
• Study in Australia
• Study in Ireland
• Study in Germany
• Study in China
• Study in Europe

Student Visas

• Student Visa Canada
• Student Visa UK
• Student Visa USA
• Student Visa Australia
• Student Visa Germany
• Student Visa New Zealand
• Student Visa Ireland
• CBSE Class 10th
• CBSE Class 12th
• UP Board 10th
• UP Board 12th
• Bihar Board 10th
• Bihar Board 12th
• Top Schools in India
• Top Schools in Delhi
• Top Schools in Mumbai
• Top Schools in Chennai
• Top Schools in Hyderabad
• Top Schools in Kolkata
• Top Schools in Pune
• Top Schools in Bangalore

Products & Resources

• JEE Main Knockout April
• NCERT Notes
• NCERT Syllabus
• NCERT Books
• RD Sharma Solutions
• Navodaya Vidyalaya Admission 2024-25
• NCERT Solutions
• NCERT Solutions for Class 12
• NCERT Solutions for Class 11
• NCERT solutions for Class 10
• NCERT solutions for Class 9
• NCERT solutions for Class 8
• NCERT Solutions for Class 7
• NCHMCT JEE 2022
• Christ University BHM
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in India
• Top Hospitality & Tourism Colleges in Delhi
• Top Government Hospitality & Tourism Colleges in Hyderabad
• Top Hospitality & Tourism Colleges in Mumbai
• NCHM JEE College Predictor
• NEET Companion Buy Now
• B.Tech Companion Buy Now

Popular Searches

• CAT Percentile Predictor
• CAT Score Vs Percentile

• Travel Journalist

How to Become a Travel Journalist

• Career Types
• Work Environment
• How to become
• Skills and Traits
• Certifications/Internship
• Career Progression

Who is a Travel Journalist?

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness ~ Mark Twain

Many of you think of travelling the world, roam around on the unknown streets, meet new people, but have you ever wondered if you will get paid for this? Sounds amazing right? This could be your dream job, is not it? A travel journalist is one who travels to different locations, explores them, researches their cultural heritage, and then writes about everything. 

Journalism  does have its own challenges. If you have a passion for research and travel and are willing to compromise on financial security, you could really start your career as a Travel Journalist. The job of a Travel Journalist involves researching and writing about the places, their heritage, culture, food and people. Here, in this article, we will be discussing what does a travel journalist do, travel journalist salary, how to become a travel journalist, travel journalist in India, travel journalist job description, what is travel journalism.

Travel Journalist in a Nutshell

The career of a travel journalist is full of passion, excitement and responsibility. Journalism as a career could be challenging at times, but if you're someone who has been genuinely enthusiastic about all this, then it is the best decision for you. Travel journalism jobs are all about insightful, artfully written, informative narratives designed to cover the travel industry. Travel Journalist is someone who explores, gathers and presents information as a news article.

Quick Facts for Travel Journalist

Tourism, Media

Male, Female, Others

Individuals can take up a career as Travel Journalists, it is not gender-specific. Males, women, and others can choose a career as Travel Journalists. In India, a male and female Travel Journalist enjoys equal benefits because gender is insignificant in this career.

As long as the individual's disability is not hampering the work, anyone, with any disability can become a travel journalist.

Table of Contents for Travel Journalist

What is the role of travel journalist.

A travel journalist usually narrates a tale about people who are unique to that place and conveys the factual information. The aim of travel journalism is to promote a wider understanding and knowledge of the world in which we live, to make the readers visit places in imagination with their blogs and articles. Travel journalists tell the stories and give more insight into locations which go beyond a review of a restaurant, festival, or museum. 

Individual in the travel journalism jobs is a storyteller. He or she writes and reviews stories about locations, culture and entertainment. The Travel Journalist provides detailed information so that people can develop their views and make more informed decisions.

Create ideas

As a travel journalist is regarded as a storyteller, the very first step towards becoming a storyteller is to have a story concept. A travel journalist needs to find the lead for the article he or she wants to cover. The concept of the plot is generally the area or the beat in which the travel journalist operates.

Taking interviews

Travel journalists take interviews of people regarding the current story they are covering, helping in gathering information and adding up to the research work. If travel journalists interview more people, more voices give them credibility to their story. It is extremely important for a journalist to do his or her research before going to an interview, particularly if the interviewee is a well-known person. Prior to actually conducting an interview, one should prepare a set of questions though in this profession one has to be very impromptu.

Once a Travel Journalist has completed his or her research work or interviews, certain information gathered must be checked for factual information. It helps the individual to avoid any kind of problems in the future. One has to be sure that the information provided by the interviewee is reliable, or one may also mention the source of the data while filling out the document.

Photography

Travel Journalists take photographs of people and different places, based on the current story which they are covering, helping in collecting information and adding up to the research work. They take pictures which depict the accrual scenario in a proper way.

Types of a Travel Journalist

Reporter : Reporters conduct interviews, find the source, and collect all the information needed to write a well-rounded news article. Reporters will also present data in writing or verbally in news stories, documentaries or feature stories. Reporters cover all sorts of news articles, and others may specialise in areas like sports, lifestyle or politics. A reporter should have the intellect to draw a distinction between story and objectivity.

Photojournalist :  Photojournalists may work as freelance photographers or may be appointed by photo agencies, publications or local newspapers. The areas of employment also include digital media, television and printing. A photojournalist is one who photographs, edits, and displays photographs to tell a visual story. The photojournalists interpret and interact with the event through photographs.

News Editor:  The news editor is the person responsible for all news reporters. Individuals make these decisions about what storylines to cover and who is going to do the work. In large media organisations, the news editor may well have a deputy, sometimes referred to as the Chief of Staff, whose job it is to allocate journalists to selected stories.

What is the workplace/work environment of Travel Journalist like?

Individuals in the career as travel journalist needs to go out on the field, gather information, and then compile a story. The journalist's job is both physically and mentally demanding. It is a job for people those who do not like boredom in their day to day life. They work on filed, travel the whole world, meet different people. Their work station also changes regularly.

Does Travel Journalist require travelling?

As travel journalists, you need to travel a lot locally if there is a storey that breaks. Travel journalists need to travel every now and then, depending on the requirement of a story, or in the case of any event to be covered. Individuals in the career as travel journalists travel not only when a particular story is needed, but they also travel on their own, when they actually want to visit a place.

Employment Shifts

Full time, part time.

The shift in the employment of a travel journalist is both full-time and part-time in nature. The duration is generally between 40-45 hours per week. It often stretches depending on the individual's workload. Many times there are incidents that can happen late at night, and a travel journalist is also required to cover them.

Employment Nature

Contractual, permanent.

Travel Journalists work full time, part-time and also work as a freelancer. Individuals in the career as travel journalists work whenever they want to. But while working for any media houses they need to work accordingly.

Home Office, On-Field, Office

The nature of the employment of travel journalists are permanent and also of a freelance nature. The firm hires him or her on a full-time or part-time basis. Individuals in the career as travel journalists may be required to work in almost all kinds of scenarios, as it is his or her job to provide information to the people. They travel a lot to gather information. Travel journalists do not really work in an office environment. Though while editing and writing the news article they need particular space for that.

Presence in Geographical Area

Semi-urban, urban.

Travel Journalists mostly work in urban or semi-urban locations. If any incidents happen then journalists from the nearest branch of the media house are sent. But it is not limited only to the country, but also to other countries.

Time Pressure

A Travel Journalist’s job is time-bound. He or she constantly works under time pressure. Deadlines are stapled in the field of journalism. They sometimes work under pressure when some news to be covered in a short notice.

Overtime Details

A travel journalist may have to work overtime in order to meet the desired target or deadline. However, due to travel inconveniences, they may be forced to work overtime.

Weekly Hours of Work

Min 45 hours.

A travel journalist does not have a minimum working hour condition, but one has a goal to complete. Every Travel Journalist needs to file the required number of stories set as a target. But travel reporters generally work around eight-nine hours a day on average.

How to become a Travel Journalist?

Steps to become a travel journalist.

Embarking to become a travel journalist in India involves a blend of passion, skills, and strategic steps. This guide unveils the key elements of "How to Become a Travel Journalist in India," offering insights into the educational path, essential skills, and practical tips to kickstart a rewarding career in capturing the world’s wonders through the lens of journalism.

Identify the Skills

Enrol in formal education, pursue specialisation/certification courses, build a portfolio, look for internship/job opportunities, begin a career.

Developing a successful career as a Travel Journalist in India demands a blend of precise hard and soft skills. From adept storytelling techniques to interpersonal finesse, mastering these essential Travel Journalist skills is key to navigating the diverse landscapes of journalism while capturing the essence of travel. Here are some of Travel Journalist skills:

Hard Skills

Proficient Writing and Editing Skills

Photography and Videography

Research and Fact-Checking Abilities

Digital Content Creation

Multimedia Storytelling

Social Media Management

Soft Skills

Curiosity and Open-Mindedness

Adaptability and Flexibility

Communication and Interviewing Skills

Creativity and Innovation

Time Management and Organization

For aspiring Travel Journalists in India, enrolling in formal education is a pivotal step. Pursuing a bachelor's degree in journalism, communication, or a related field like B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication  lays a strong foundation, while a master's degree like M.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication can offer specialised knowledge. 

Many universities and institutes across India offer journalism programmes with varying eligibility criteria; aspiring journalists may need to undergo entrance exams like DU-JAT ,  JNU-EE to secure admission and embark on their journey to meet Travel Journalist qualifications.

To enhance Travel Journalist qualifications in India, consider pursuing specialized courses or certifications in travel writing, multimedia storytelling, or journalism. These focused programs cater to the evolving demands of the industry and can provide valuable insights. Eligibility criteria may vary, but such courses often welcome individuals with a passion for travel and storytelling, offering a targeted approach to building essential skills for a successful career as a Travel Journalist.

Building a compelling portfolio is indispensable for aspiring Travel Journalists in India. Curate a diverse collection showcasing your writing, photography, and multimedia skills to reflect the depth of your storytelling abilities. This portfolio not only highlights your versatility but also serves as a key tool for potential employers or clients when considering you for various Travel Journalist roles and responsibilities in the dynamic field of travel journalism.

Securing internships or job opportunities is crucial for aspiring Travel Journalists in India to gain hands-on experience. Seek a job profile that aligns with Travel Journalist roles and responsibilities, offering exposure to writing, photography, and content creation in the travel domain. These experiences not only hone skills but also provide insights into the dynamic world of travel journalism, preparing individuals for the multifaceted demands of the profession.

The final step in becoming a Travel Journalist in India is to embark on your career journey. Leverage your education, skills, and experiences gained through internships to secure opportunities with reputable publications, travel agencies, or freelance projects. Establish a strong online presence, network within the industry, and consistently showcase your travel journalism portfolio to carve a successful path in this dynamic and rewarding field.

What are the skills and qualities required to become a/an Travel Journalist?

• Communication skills
• Research skills
• Writing skills

In, in this article, we will discuss how to become a travel journalist and skills are required by travel journalist.

Communication skill : A Travel Journalist must have good communication skills. Workplace contact is important for Travel Journalist because it allows them to be successful and operate properly. They need to communicate with people for their resources and to take people's reaction. They even take interviews with well-known people, for these communications skills are very important.

Writing skills : Travel Journalist needs to be skilled at communicating clear ideas and thoughts. Most journalists will start writing before the start of their work. It is not just about good writing, but also about building knowledge of various writing styles. Travel Journalist writes about the information which they have collected from various places. 

Research skills : Research skills for journalists is a comprehensive, approachable and highly functional guide to the development of a diverse set of skills necessary to make well-researched, journalistic integrity across a wide variety of platforms. Travel Journalists are expected to be highly dedicated to any article. To know the news, to look in the right places, to find the story, to analyse the narrative and, finally, to tell the full story in an impartial, uncompromised and accurate way. 

Popular Online Arts And Crafts Courses and Certifications

Online Social Media Marketing Courses

Online Marketing Management Courses

Online Brand Management Courses

Online Advertising Courses

View All Online Marketing Courses

Online Journalism Courses

Online Mass Communication Courses

Which certifications and internships can be helpful in becoming Travel Journalist?

We have mentioned below certifications that individuals may opt who want to establish a career as a Travel Journalist.

Certified News Editor

Certified Online Journalist

Certified Technical Writer

Internship Availability

Internships are proven to be the ideal way to gain experience in a travel journalist career path. Internships allow the candidate to build relationships in the field for future use. If he or she performs well throughout the internship, a lot of companies or organisations also might recruit a candidate on a full-time basis. This is such a field, where internship really adds a value to the candidate’s career. Candidates can find internship opportunities in media houses for two or three months. Mostly travel journalism internships are unpaid, but eventually, those companies hire those interns after the

Career Path Progression for Travel Journalist

Staff Travel Journalist:  As a Staff Travel Journalist, you will immerse yourself in researching, writing, and crafting engaging narratives about diverse travel destinations. Your role involves capturing the essence of places, sharing unique experiences, and contributing compelling content to a media outlet or travel publication.

Travel Editor: As a Travel Editor, you will lead and manage the travel content for a publication or website. This role requires a keen editorial eye, overseeing the curation, editing, and publication of articles. Your responsibility is to maintain the publication's quality standards and ensure that each piece resonates with the target audience.

Travel Journalist Jobs and Salaries

Staff travel journalist.

Contractual/Permanent

• Average Salary 25000

Job Description

Staff Travel Journalist work is very basic in the field of journalism. They will be responsible for researching, writing, and producing engaging content on various travel destinations. Collaborate with editors and photographers to create compelling narratives that captivate readers and convey the essence of each location.

Salary Description

Salaries in this career largely depend on the company and the role that an individual occupies. At the beginning of their career, they get get basic pay. And eventually, they earn more than Rs. 25000 per month.

Travel Editor

• Average Salary 50000

As a Travel Editor, your role involves overseeing and managing travel content for a publication. You will be responsible for editing and curating articles, collaborating with writers, and shaping the overall travel narrative to ensure it aligns with the publication's voice and editorial guidelines. This position requires a keen eye for detail, strong editing skills, and a passion for creating compelling travel stories.

The salaries of Travel editor depend on career growth or rely entirely on the experience of the particular field. The salary of Travel editor depends mainly on experience. The Travel Editor receive on average up to Rs. six lakhs a year.  Source - (GLASSDOOR)

What is the job outlook for Travel Journalist?

A candidate who wants to become a travel journalist is experiencing major job growth. When an individual gains experience and understanding, he or she gets higher ranks in the field of journalism. Because the field is massive and continues to expand, there are plenty of possibilities for employment growth. The life of a travel journalist could be exhausting and somewhat expensive, but somebody who wants to explore the whole world will consider it a most satisfying adventure. 

Travel Journalism does not assure a huge amount of money, especially in the early stages of the career, and people can not expect a lot of salaries as there will be thousands of people out there who can do the unpaid work. There is also no stability both in the income and the job. But definitely, it can be said that this job is for those who do not want monotony in their career.

Student Also Liked:

Online Degree and Diploma Courses

Online Free Courses and Certifications

Online Short Term Courses and Certifications

Online Certification Courses

View all Online Courses and Certifications

Frequently Asked Questions for Travel Journalist

Que. is travel journalism a good career.

Travel Journalism does not ensure a great deal of money, especially in the early stages of your career, and you can not just expect a huge amount of money as there will be millions of people out there who can do your work for free.

Que. Is journalism a dying field?

Journalism is certainly not dying, but it is changing and competitive. You need to be excellent at editing your multimedia content. We might think that print media is dying because of the digital era, but no media is actually dying.

Que. Is journalism a stressful job?

Journalists have to deal with time constraints, stressful working environments, insane deadlines, travel, demanding editorial staff, a much more demanding public, and anxiety of being laid off. By all of these, you can surely understand it is a stressful job, but if you have the passion of being a journalist nothing can stop you.

Que. Is it difficult to become a journalist?

Working as a reporter could be an exciting and challenging job. However, it can also be difficult work that often leads to unpleasant stories and constructive criticism, and not pays well compared to other professions.

Que. What do travel journalists write about?

Travel journalists have their own individual knowledge and expertise to define tourist attractions for different kinds of publications. Such writings may be in the type of blurbs, articles, documentaries or travel guides. They usually accompany their writings with photos of the destinations they visit.

Que. What degree do you need to be a travel journalist?

To become a travel journalist, a degree in journalism, communication, or a related field is beneficial, providing a solid foundation in writing and storytelling.

Que. Which course is best for travel journalism?

The best courses for travel journalism often include elements of journalism, multimedia storytelling, and travel writing to equip aspiring journalists with the necessary skills for the field.

Que. What skills do you need for travel journalism?

Essential skills for travel journalism include strong writing abilities, photography skills, cultural sensitivity, and a passion for exploration, enabling journalists to capture and convey compelling stories about diverse destinations.

Que. How to become a travel journalist for the National Geographic?

To become a travel journalist for National Geographic, consider gaining relevant experience through internships or freelance work, build a diverse portfolio showcasing your writing and photography skills, and network within the industry to increase visibility and opportunities with the renowned publication.

You might also be interested in

Account manager job description & roles and responsi....

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of account manager, alon...

Social Media Manager Job Description & Roles and Res...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of social media manager,...

Sales Manager Job Description & Roles and Responsibi...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of sales manager, along ...

Product Manager Job Description & Roles and Responsi...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of product manager, alon...

Human Resource Manager Job Description & Roles and R...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of human resource manage...

Graphic Designer Job Description & Roles and Respons...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of graphic designer, alo...

Project Manager Job Description & Roles and Responsi...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of project manager, alon...

Business Development Executive (BDE) & Roles and Res...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of business development ...

Data Analyst Job Description & Roles and Responsibil...

Find out about the job description, roles, and responsibilities of Data Analyst, along ...

Teacher Job Description & Roles and Responsibilities

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of teacher, along with t...

Business Development Manager Job Description & Roles...

Retail manager job description & roles and responsib....

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of retail manager, along...

Production Manager Job Description & Roles and Respo...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of production manager, a...

Financial Analyst Job Description & Roles and Respon...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of financial analyst, al...

Content Writer Job Description & Roles and Responsib...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of content writer, along...

Accountant Job Description & Roles and Responsibilities

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of accountant, along wit...

Business Analyst Job Description & Roles and Respons...

Find out about the job description, roles and responsibilities of business analyst, alo...

Career Options for Maths Students: UG & PG Degree Co...

Check out the best Career Options for Maths Students. The article majorly describes the...

Marketing Executive Job Description & Roles and Resp...

Find out about the job description, roles, and responsibilities of Marketing Executives...

High Salary Government Jobs After 12th - Check Eligi...

The following article will give you insights into some of the best high salary governme...

Loco Pilot Salary in India - Per Month, After 10 Yea...

Learn about Loco Pilot Salary in India. Know more details like loco pilot salary per mo...

Merchant Navy Salary in India - After 12th, Per Mont...

Learn about Merchant Navy Salary in India - Check the Salary of Merchant navy after 12t...

Top 10 Highest Paid Jobs in India in Commerce Field ...

Find out the Top 10 Highest Paid Jobs in India in Commerce Field. Check what are the sk...

Best Career Options After 12th PCM For Girl - Eligib...

Career options after 12th PCM - this article gives an insight into what are the best ca...

Part time Jobs After 12th Commerce - Expected Salary...

Get information on Part-time Jobs After 12th Commerce. The article also gives informati...

Career Options After 12th Commerce with Maths

Career options after 12th Commerce with Maths - This article will discuss the best care...

How to become a Medical Representative

Know How to become a Medical Representative. Check what are the skills, educational qua...

Career Options After BTech

Check out the best Career Options After BTech. Find what are the skills, job roles, edu...

Top 6 Highest Paying Jobs in Commerce Without Math

Find out the Top 6 Highest Paying Jobs in Commerce Without Math. Read complete article ...

Engineer Salary in India - Per Month, Top Cities, Co...

Learn about Engineer Salary in India. The article also gives information on salary base...

How to Become an IT Consultant - Courses, Jobs, Aver...

Learn How to Become an IT Consultant. Check IT courses, Job, Salary and more details here.

How to Work in Information Technology

Learn How to Work in Information Technology. What are the education qualification skill...

Software Developer Salary in India - Per Month, Base...

Software Developer Salary in India - Check the salary of a software developer per month...

Career Scope After B.Pharma and M.Pharma

The article gives information on Career scope After B Pharma & M Pharma including avera...

How To Study Pharmacy Abroad

Learn How To Study Pharmacy Abroad. Check what are educational qualification, skills re...

​​Career Options After 12th Arts - Courses With High...

Check out the best ​​career options after 12th arts with highest salary.

Career Options in Law in India - Average Salary, Edu...

Learn about some of the best careers option after law and average salary. see what educ...

Different Types of Jobs in Information Technology

Check out the Different Types of Jobs in Information Technology including skills, quali...

HR Salary in India (Fresher & Experienced) - How to ...

Check out the HR salary in India. Know what are the skills, education qualification req...

Low Risk Careers in Engineering Domain in the Age of...

Check the careers that are low risk careers in automation or what can be the benefits o...

Top Highest Paying Engineering Jobs - Skills, Educat...

Find out the Top Highest Paying Engineering Jobs. Check what are the skills, educationa...

MBA in Pharmaceutical Management

Do MBA in Pharmaceutical Management? Know the educational qualification, skills, roles ...

How to become an Information Technology Manager: Ski...

Know How to become an Information Technology Manager. Check out the skills, education q...

Low Risk Careers in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism ...

Check the Low risk Careers list in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism industry in the Age ...

Types of Pharmacy Courses After 12th

Check what are the types of Pharmacy Courses After 12th. Know the educational qualifica...

Best Career Option In Pharma Industry For Life Science

Learn about the best Career Options In Pharma Industry For Life Science. Check out the ...

Web Designer Salary in India (For Freshers & Experie...

Learn about the web designer average salary, job profiles, skills required, education q...

Career Options After MBA in Marketing: Highest Payin...

Find out the best Career Options After MBA in Marketing. Check what are the education q...

Top Highest Paying Tech Jobs: Skills, Average Salary

Find out the Top Highest Paying Tech Jobs in India for fresher and experience. Check wh...

SEO Salary in India: SEO Manager, SEO Executive, SEO...

Learn about the SEO Salary in India. Find what are the skills, educational qualificatio...

IoT Engineer Salary in India

Check out the IoT Engineer Salary in India. Find what is role and responsibilities, sal...

Data Analyst Salary in India for Fresher & Experienced

The article gives insights on Data Analyst Salary in India. The article also gives inf...

Business Analyst Salary in India for Fresher & Exper...

Learn about the Business Analyst Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Find out ...

Career Options in Sociology: 9 Top Career Opportunit...

Find out the Career Options in Sociology. Check what are the educational qualification,...

Career Options After MBA: Qualification, Jobs, Avg. ...

Learn about the various Career Options After MBA. The article also gives information on...

Top 10 Engineering Jobs - Highest Paying Jobs In India

Check out some of the most popular engineering jobs in India. Check what are the qualif...

Career Outlook for Full Stack Developers

The article gives a brief Career Outlook for Full Stack Developers. The article also li...

5 Steps To Finding The Right Career For You

Learn all about useful tips to help you identify the skills you have and the training y...

Low Risk Career in Medical Domain in the Era of Arti...

The article gives information on some of the low-risk career options in the medicine fi...

Demanding Careers in Construction Industry - Jobs, S...

Learn all about some of the demanding careers in the construction Industry. The article...

What can I do with a Pharmacy Degree

Know what to do after getting a degree in pharmacy. The article gives information on jo...

Top Remote Jobs - List of Best Work From Home Companies

Check out the best remote jobs available in India. The article also gives information o...

Popular Careers in Management in India - Average Salary

Learn all about various types of managers that come under management , their salaries a...

Big Data Engineer Salary - How Much Can You Expect A...

The article gives information on salaries of Big Data Engineers in India. The article a...

Social Media Marketing Salary in India: SEO Manager ...

Learn about Social Media Marketing Salary in India. The article also gives information ...

Reasons to Pursue Information Technology Careers

Check out some reasons why you should pursue careers in information technology. Know the

Average Business Management Salary in India [For Fre...

Find out the Average Business Management Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. C...

Best Paying Jobs in Information Technology

Get brief information on some of the best paying Jobs in IT. The article also gives inf...

Product Designer Salary in India [For Freshers & Exp...

Find out the Product Designer Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Check what a...

Doctor Salary in India - Per Month, Specialisation, ...

Air hostess salary in india - based on company & roles.

Air Hostess Salary In India - Air hostesses are also known as flight attendants or stew...

Aeronautical Engineer Salary in India - Per Month, E...

Aeronautical Engineer Salary in India - Aeronautical engineers design and construct aer...

Top 5 Tech Careers Of The Future

Check out the Top 5 Tech Careers Of The Future. Know the careers options, skills, educa...

Top 5 Highest Paid Freelancing Jobs in India

The article gives information on 5 Highest Paid Freelancing Jobs in India. Check out th...

Site Reliability Engineer: Job Responsibilities, Sal...

Learn all about Site Reliability Engineer's job roles and responsibilities. The article...

How to Become Frontend Developer - Skills, Education...

Find How to become Frontend Developer in India. Check what are the skills, educational ...

Management Consultant Salary in India

Check out the Management Consultant Salary in India. Check education qualification, ski...

Top 7 Career Options in Law In India: Job Opportunit...

Find out the Top 7 Career Options in Law In India. Check out the job opportunities, ski...

Top Career Options in Law in India

Find out the Top Career Options in Law including job roles and their salary in India, R...

How to Become Freelance Designer

Check How to become Freelance Designer. Check out the steps to become freelance designer.

Popular IT Careers in India - Highest Paying Jobs

Check out the Popular IT Careers in India. See what are the highest paying jobs, educat...

What Can You Do with an IT Degree

What Can You Do with an IT Degree? Know what are the skills, education qualification re...

Python Developer Salary in India: Skills, Job Roles

Find out the Python Developer Salary in India. Check what are the educational qualifica...

How to Become a PHP Developer - Skills, Education, S...

Know How to become a PHP Developer in India. See what are the skills, educational quali...

Average Product Manager Salary in India for Fresher ...

Learn all about the Average Product Manager Salary in India for fresher and experience....

Project Manager Salary in India - Average Salary for...

Learn about the Project Manager Salary in India. Check what are the skills, educational...

Cloud Architect Salary in India - Skills, Qualificat...

Learn all about Cloud Architect Salary in India. Learn what are the skills required, qu...

Career Options After Computer Engineering: Courses, ...

Learn all about Career Options After Computer Engineering. Check what are the skills, e...

Supply Chain Manager Salary in India - Skills, Quali...

Learn about the Supply Chain Manager Salary in India. The article also gives informatio...

Top Highest Paying Science Jobs in India

Find out the Top Highest Paying Science Jobs in India. Check what are the education qua...

React JS Developer Salary in India: Types, Job Marke...

Learn all about the salary of a React JS Developer. The article also gives information ...

Android Developer Salary in India : Based on Locatio...

The article gives information on Android Developer Salary. Additionally, it also gives ...

How to Become an Animator After 12th

Learn how to become an animator. The article also gives information on skills, educatio...

How to become an RPA Developer: Skills, Salary, Job ...

Learn all about how to become an RPA Developer. The article also gives information on s...

Average Computer Science Salary in India - Job Role,...

Find the Average Computer Science Salary in India. Know the job role, skills, education...

Top 6 Interesting Career Options in Psychology in India

Check out the Top 6 Interesting Career Options in Psychology in India. Find what are th...

Javascript Developer Salary in India for Fresher & E...

Check out the Javascript Developer Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Read co...

AI Engineer Salary In US, India, Canada - Jobs, Resp...

Check out the AI Engineer Salary In US India Canada. Find roles and responsibilities, j...

DBA Salary in India - Skills, Qualification, Careers...

Find out the DBA Salary in India. Check what are the skills, qualification, careers pro...

AWS Salary in India [For Freshers & Experienced]

Learn all about AWS Salary in India For Freshers & Experienced. The article also gives ...

Cloud Engineer Salary in India - Skills, Qualificati...

Learn all about Cloud Engineer Salary in India. Check what are the skills, educational ...

Journalism and Mass Communication Salary in India

Check out Journalism and Mass Communication Salary in India. Find what are the skills, ...

Best IT Courses After 12th

Check out the Best IT Courses After 12th. Know the IT jobs, skills, education qualifica...

Top 5 Factors for Career Options in India

Carefully considering the following factors when weighing your career path options can ...

Full Stack Developer Salary in India : Skills, Caree...

Learn all about the Full Stack Developer Salary in India. The article also gives inform...

Salary for M.Sc IT Graduates: Highest Paying Job Rol...

Check out the Salary for M.Sc IT Graduates: Highest Paying Job Roles for M.Sc IT. Know ...

Software Architect Salary in India for Fresher & Exp...

Check out the Software Architect Salary in India. Know what are the skills required, qu...

Fun and Interesting Career Options in India

Check out the Fun and Interesting Career Options in India. Check out the diploma and qu...

How to Become a Marine Engineer After 12th

Check How to become a Marine Engineer after 12th. What are the skills, educational qual...

Career in Digital Marketing: Skills, Advantages & Di...

Check out the Career in Digital Marketing, Find What are the skills, advantages and dis...

Bank Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility & Expected ...

Learn all about Bank Jobs after 12th. The article also gives information on some of the...

Best Government Jobs For Commerce Students - Salary,...

Learn all about some of the top Government Jobs that students who are from commerce bac...

SSC Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility, Exams, Exp...

The following article will give you important information on SSC jobs after 12th

Top Govt Jobs After 12th - Check Post Name, Exam, El...

Top Govt Jobs After 12th - Check out the various government jobs available to students ...

Railway Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility, Top Exa...

The following article will give you information about the Indian railway jobs after 12th.

Salesforce Developer Salary in India For Fresher & E...

Check out the Salesforce Developer Salary in India for Fresher and Experienced. Read co...

Salary of Pharmacist: Region Wise, Specialization Wi...

Check out the Salary of Pharmacist. Know what is the qualification, skills required and...

How to Become UI/UX Designer - Skills, Career Prospe...

Check how to become UI/UX Designer including skills, career prospects, average salary a...

Ethical Hacker Salary for Fresher & Experienced : In...

Check out the Ethical Hacker Salary in India, USA, Canada, UAE, Singapore, Australia. C...

Average Corporate Lawyer Salary in India

Learn about the average Corporate Lawyer Salary in India. The article also gives inform...

MBA Salary in USA (By Industry): Types of MBA, Fact...

Find out MBA Salary in USA by their industry. Check out the factors, types of MBA, qual...

Software Engineering Salary in India [Average & High...

Check out the average salary of software engineer in India. Check what are the educatio...

Cyber Security Salary in India For Freshers & Experi...

Learn all about Cyber Security Salary in India for fresher and experienced. Check what ...

What to do After MCA - Careers & Scope, Average Salary

Learn about the best careers option after MCA. See scope, job profile, average salary a...

Web Developer Salary in India [For Freshers & Experi...

Learn all about the Web Developer Salary in India For Freshers and Experienced. Know wh...

Salary of MCA Graduates: Based on Various Specialisa...

Check out the salary of MCA graduates based on the specialisation and job roles. know m...

Digital Marketing Salary in India – Average to Highest

Find out the Digital Marketing Salary in India. Check job profiles, skills, educational...

Java Developer Salary in India [For Freshers & Exper...

Check out the Java Developer Salary in India in 2022 For Freshers & Experienced. Read c...

What does an Engineer do? - Job Roles, Salary

Find out the What does an Engineer do. Check out the job roles and their average salary...

How do I get a job in the Pharmaceutical Industry?

Know How do I get a job in Pharmaceutical Industry. Read more details here.

Machine Learning Salary in India (Fresher & Experien...

Find out the Machine Learning Salary in India. Check what are the skills, education qua...

6 Top Career Options After BBA: What to do After BBA?

Learn about the best career option or job opportunities after BBA Course. The article a...

Service Delivery Manager: Job Description, Skills Re...

Learn all about Service Delivery Manager jobs in India. The article gives information o...

Career Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence

Find out the various Career Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence. Check out the ski...

DevOps Engineer Salary in India [For Fresher & Exper...

Learn all about the DevOps Engineer Salary in India for Freshers & Experienced. Find wh...

Which is the Best Career Option to Choose in Today T...

There are multiple factors that you need to consider while choosing your career options...

What to do After BMM - Best Careers Option After BMM

What to do After BMM? Here is the list of best career options available in BMM includin...

Career Options After MA: What To Do After MA

Check out the list of Career Options After MA. Here you can find what to do, how you ca...

Career after Polytechnic, Courses, Job Opportunities...

Get information on some of the Careers after Polytechnic. The articles gives informatio...

Which Are The Best Career Options In India

This article will give students an insight into the best career options for a future in...

Career Options After BMS: What to do After BMS

Learn all about Career Options After BMS. Check job opportunities, salary, educational ...

How to Become a Management Consultant - Jobs, Skills...

Learn How to Become a Management Consultant, Check what are the skills, educational qua...

Career Options in Commerce with Mathematics After 12...

Learn all about some of the best career options in Commerce with Maths after 12. The ar...

How to Become a Dentist After 12th

Learn how to become a dentist after 12th. The article also gives information on the ski...

Astronomy Courses After 12th - Check Eligibility, D...

The article talks about different astronomy courses after class 12th, eligibility, dura...

Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Psychology in India

Looking for Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Psychology in India? Find out the list of bes...

Types of Marketing Jobs and Salary

Find out types of Marketing Jobs and their average salary in India for fresher and expe...

Career Options After M.Sc: What To Do After M.Sc

Check out the best Career Options After MSc. Find the job role, responsibilities, salar...

Average Nursing Salary in India - Job Profile, Scope...

Check out the average Nursing salary in India. Here you can find what are the education...

How to become a Successful Vlogger

Learn how to become a successful Vlogger. The article also gives information on types ...

Investment Banker Salary in India {Beginners & Exper...

Learn all about Investment banker salary in India for beginners and experienced. See wh...

Scope Of DPharma In India and abroad

Check out the Scope Of Pharm. D In India and abroad including eligibility criteria, ski...

Career Path of IAS Officer - Training, Responsibilit...

Check out the career path of an IAS officer. Find what are the responsibilities, salary...

Jobs After 10th - Eligibility, Exam Names, Job Sector

Learn all about various jobs that students can pursue after completing their class 10th...

Top IT Jobs in Demand for Future

Learn all about the top IT Jobs in Demand for future. The article also gives informatio...

Is Marketing a Most Stressful Career?

Learn all about how to deal with stress, especially if you are working in the field of ...

Which Engineering Branch is Best For Future - Job Ro...

Learn all about which Engineering branch is best for future. The article also gives inf...

7 Best Career Options after BA: What to do After BA?

Check out the 7 Best Career Options after BA that you can opt for and pursue after your...

Artificial Intelligence Salary in India {Beginners &...

Find out the Artificial Intelligence Salary in India. What are the skills, education qu...

5 Career Options in Pharmaceutical Industry

Know the 5 Career Options in Pharmaceutical Industry including roles and responsibiliti...

How to Become a Salesforce Developer: Skills, Job Ro...

Learn about how to Become a Salesforce Developer? Also Find out the steps to become sal...

Unique Career Options After 12th - Check Eligibility...

Learn all about some unique career options after 12th. The article gives information on...

12 Best Career Options after M.Com in 2024 - What to...

Learn about 12 Best Career Options after MCom. Find what to do, education qualification...

Career after ITI, Courses, Job Opportunities

Career after ITI - Check out career options after engineering and non engineering ITI c...

Best Professions In The World

The following article gives an insight into the best professions in the world.

Top 15 Highest Paying Jobs in Finance in India

Find out the list of Top 15 Highest Paying Jobs in Finance in India. Check various job ...

BCA Salary In India: Top Job Roles & Career Opportun...

Check out the Salary of BCA Graduate. Find various job roles and careers opportunities,...

Career Options In Physical Education - Scope, Salary...

This article gives an insight into what physical education is and what are various care...

How to join Indian Navy after 12th - Check Eligibili...

How to join Indian Navy after 12th - Check out the intends to give you information on h...

10 Best Career Option for Science Students After 12th

Find out the 10 Best Career Option for Science Students After 12th. Check out the job r...

Most In Demand jobs for the Future : Best Future Car...

Find out the Most In Demand jobs for the Future. Here is list of best careers options i...

Commerce Scope After 12th - Check Career Options, Co...

The following article gives a perspective about the vast scope after studying Commerce ...

How To Live Alone: 9 Ways To Live Alone Happily

How To Live Alone - The article gives information on different ways one can learn how t...

How to Become a Judge in India After LLB

Find out How to become a Judge in India after LLB. what is procedure, skills required t...

Careers In Art And Design - Check Career Options, Sa...

Careers options in art and design - this article gives information on best and top care...

Career Planning - Check Effective Tips For Career Pl...

The following article gives an insight about what is career planning and how it differs...

Career Guidance After 12th: Check Popular Colleges, ...

Career Guidance After 12th - The following article gives an insight into career guidan...

Highest Paying Jobs In The World - Check Eligibility...

This article gives an overview of some of the highest paying jobs in the world.

Career Options After 12th Commerce - Eligibility & E...

Career Options After 12th Commerce - The following article gives a detailed analysis of...

Career Option After 10th - Eligibility, Salary, Govt...

Jobs after 10th - this article provides an insight into the best career options after 1...

Career Options After 12th Science - Eligibility & Ex...

Career Options After 12th Science- This article speaks about different career options a...

Career Options After 12th Science PCM - Check Educat...

This article will give you insights into the career options for class 12th PCM, eligibi...

Part Time Jobs After 10th - Data Entry, Content Writ...

Find here the list of top part time jobs after 10th pass that students can pursue and m...

Commerce with Maths Scope - Check List of Top Career...

Commerce with Maths Scope - The following article gives a perspective about the vast sc...

What Is A Career? - A Complete Guide

This article will give readers a detailed insight into what is a career and some of its...

How to Become a Pilot After 12th Commerce - Step By ...

The article explores ways on how those who are from commerce background can become pilo...

Career Options After 12th Commerce Without Maths

This article gives information on various career options after 12th Commerce without Ma...

PCMC Career Options - Expected Salary, Eligibility

This article gives an insight into the courses after 12th science pcmc that are offered...

Career Options After 12th Science PCB - Check Top Re...

This article gives information on career options after 12th Science PCB, for giving a b...

Career Options After 12th Science PCMB - Eligibility...

Career Options After 12th Science PCMB - The following article gives an insight into th...

How to Join ISRO after 12th - A Complete Guide

How to Join ISRO after 12th - This article presents you with a step-by-step guide on ho...

How To Join Indian Navy After 10th - Check Post, Eli...

Learn about how to join the Indian Navy after class 10th. The article gives information...

How to join Indian air force after 12th - Check Sele...

How to join Indian air force after 12th - The following article gives an insight into t...

Career Options After 12th Arts/Humanities - Check Ed...

Learn all about career options after class 12th. The article also gives information abo...

Highest Salary Jobs In India Per Month

Discover some of the highest paid jobs in India. The article has given average monthly ...

Career Opportunity After MBA - Scope, Specialisation...

Check out the list of Career Opportunity After MBA including job roles, skills required...

Job Oriented Courses After 12th - Check Eligibility,...

The following article will give you insights into the best job oriented courses after 1...

Diverse Career Paths You Can Pursue At The Indian Pa...

In this article, Careers360 discusses various job profiles available in the Indian Parl...

Why Are Soft Skills Important For Career Development?

Know what are soft skills and why they are important for career development.

NIRF Placement Report: Pharma Grads Prefer Higher Ed...

Do all pharma graduates take up placements? Or is there an equal percentage that pursue...

Search Engine Optimisation: Pursue These Internships...

Here is the list of top paid in-office and work-from-home SEO internships offered by va...

Navigating Career Options and Salaries For Artists W...

Know the best career options with salary for an artist who loves to paint and has a pas...

8 Non-Athletic Careers For Those Who Love Sports

Explores the top 8 lucrative career opportunities who love sports but not a sports person.

Top Careers That Have Withstood Complete Automation

Here, we explore a compilation of careers in various sectors that not only resist the a...

These 6 Careers In Law Can Never Be Automated

Despite being heavily reliant on artificial intelligence, these are the 6 law careers t...

Real Estate: These Are The Top 10 Diverse And Lucrat...

Here are some of the top 10 most diverse and lucrative careers available to people in r...

Careers In The Entertainment That Are Not Acting Yet...

Apart from acting, know what are the other promising career options that are available ...

Dos And Don’ts: How Can Fresh Recruits Make The Most...

Here are some important dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind in your first job.

Career Avenues For Those Who Have Good Conversationa...

Know what are the Careers options available for those who have good speaking skills.

Do’s And Don’ts To Follow During An Internship

Know what are the certain Do's and Don'ts that you should follow during an internship.

Careers Opportunities In Wildlife And Environment Co...

Know the scope and career opportunities and scope in wildlife and environment conservat...

Office Appraisals: Are 360 Degree Performance Assess...

In this article we discuss the 360-degree performance assessment. Read to know the adva...

What Are The Career Opportunities For Maths Enthusia...

In this article discussed career opportunities where you can leverage your mathematical...

आईएएस वेतन 2024 (IAS Salary 2024 in Hindi) - पोस्ट वा...

आईएएस वेतन 2024 (IAS Salary 2024) - आईएएस का वेतन, पद के अनुसार वेतनमान, मूल वेतन, ग्रेड...

Public and Private Sector Employment: Things You Sho...

Here are some things you should know about public and private sector employment.

Freelancing: Why Is It Popular In Certain Industries?

Know the reasons why people prefer freelancing over working for someone else.

Japanese Work Culture: Lessons You Must Adopt For Ca...

Japan, known for its unique approach to work and life, has a well-kept secret for profe...

Ghostwriting: A Good Career Option For Writers

Ghostwriting Jobs - this article explores valuable insights into ghostwriting and expla...

Psychologist vs Psychiatrist: What Is The Difference...

Know the differences in Psychologists and Psychiatrists and their roles, qualifications...

Discover The Scope And Career Opportunities In Radio...

Know the vast scope and career opportunities available in the field of radiology.

Career Transitions: How To Crossover From Being An E...

Know how you can transition from an employee to an entrepreneur using these essential t...

13 Highest Paying Jobs in Pharmaceutical Industry

Check out the list of Highest paying jobs in Pharmaceutical Industry. know the jobs and...

Sports Engineering: Where Technology Meets Passion F...

Know what Is the career path for a Sports Engineer? And what does it take to become one?

The Art Of Networking: How To Build A Professional N...

This article about the art of building professional relationships shortly after graduat...

Personality Assessments: Why Is It Crucial During Ca...

Why Personality Assessments Is Crucial During Career Counseling? - this article about t...

Here’s Why Careers In Anthropology Can Never Be Auto...

This article explains why careers in anthropology can never be automated, highlighting ...

What Do Students Learn In Industrial Visits?

Know why industrial visits are so important for students and how they can benefit from ...

How Networking Portals Can Land You Better Job Oppor...

In this article, we will discuss how online platforms like LinkedIn can prove to be hel...

Career Opportunities In Sustainable Agriculture

Check out the some of the promising career opportunities available in sustainable agric...

Career Opportunities For Those Pursuing MSc Statistics

Check out the lucrative and promising career opportunities available to those who are p...

Extroverts, Thrive In Your Element And Explore These...

In this article, we have discussed top seven careers perfectly suited for extroverts. F...

What Can A Senior Colleague Teach You At Your First ...

What Can a Senior Colleague Teach You at Your First Job? - In this article, Careers360 ...

Explore These Diverse Careers In Food Technology

Explore the opportunities that await aspiring professionals in the field of food techno...

Careers After Pursuing A Bachelor’s In Physical And ...

Check the various career options after pursuing a bachelor’s degree in physical and hea...

Here’s Why Careers In Psychology Can Never Be Fully ...

In this article, let’s understand why therapeutic relationships and empathy are irrepla...

Work Opportunities in Canada for International Students

Work opportunities in Canada for international students – Careers360 brings all detail ...

Entrepreneurship: This Is How You Start Your Own Bus...

Know how to succeed as an entrepreneur by navigating the complexities of starting your ...

5 Ted Talks To Watch Before Your Final Job Interview

Top 5 Ted Talks To Watch Before Your Final Job Interview - here are five TED talks to f...

Ethical Hacker: A Lucrative Career That Doesn’t Requ...

Read this article to find lucrative, unconventional career opportunities in freelance e...

Career Growth Of DRDO Scientists And Technical Staff

Know the career growth of DRDO scientists and technical staff in India's leading defenc...

Work opportunities in New Zealand for International ...

Work opportunities in New Zealand for International Students – Careers360 bring detail ...

Architecture And Automation: Why The Industry Can Ne...

Why the Field of Architecture Industry Never Be Automated? In this article, we will exp...

Why Is Automation Not A Threat To The Defence Sector?

AI in Defence: This article explores why the defence sector can never be fully automate...

Public and Private Sector Employment Opportunities f...

Explore the social work career opportunities in the public and private sectors for thos...

Why Complete Automation Won’t Work In Police Services

In this article, we will explore why the field of police service can’t be fully automat...

Essential Skills For Successful Entrepreneurs and Im...

Entrepreneurship Skills - in this article, careers360 listed essential skills for succe...

Non Technical Jobs You Can Look Forward To

Let's take a closer look at some of the top non-technical jobs in creative arts, design...

What Does A Career In Deep-Sea Exploration And Ocean...

Explore a career in Deep-Sea exploration and oceanography. Know various career options ...

Career Trends In The Field Of Social Anthropology In...

Anthropology Jobs - in this article, we have discussed how one can choose a career as s...

Choose Psychology-Sociology-Philosophy In Your BA Fo...

Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy are three subjects that study humans and human behavi...

Why Automation Is Not A Threat To Careers In Perform...

Will AI replace artists - in this article, Careers360 has listed six performing arts th...

Navigate A Career In Teaching While Embracing AI

Artificial Intelligence is almost all spheres of our life, and its implementation in th...

An Insight Into The Profession Of Child Psychology

Know the significance of child psychology in today's world, its industry trends, variou...

Why Must You Master Your Communication and Persuasio...

Know the importance of communication and persuasion skills for post-graduate students. ...

How To Make A Career In Corporate Banking: Skills, O...

Corporate Banking Careers Guide - Know the skills, opportunities, and challenges in th...

Explore Lucrative Careers In Disaster Management

Jobs in disaster management - read this article to know the scope of careers in disaste...

New Insights Into A Career In Product Management

Check the an insight of product management new insights and trends and see how it is on...

New And Traditional Career Opportunities In Aviation...

Job opportunities in aviation - in this article, Careers360 has listed some of the trad...

Explore The Dynamic Careers In The Booming Gaming In...

Explore dynamic gaming careers in the booming industry. Know the lifecycle of designing...

What Must You Know About Switching Career Paths?

All You Must Know About Switching Career Path - In this article, we discussed the key i...

Social Media Influencer - Is It A Viable Career Option?

In this article, Let’s find out how creating content and maintaining an audience is the...

Courses That Will Unlock Exciting Careers In Geophys...

Check the careers in geophysics and geology with specialized courses. Know in detail wh...

Scope, Current Trends And Challenges In Pursuing Der...

Exploring Scope, Trends, and Challenges in Dermatology As a Career. Find out how it has...

Naturopathy: A Career In Alternative Medical Science

In this article, naturopathy practitioner Dr. Kayelarasi shared some insightful informa...

Over 55% Graduates From Kerala’s Top Colleges Chose ...

Know how many graduates From Kerala’s top Colleges were placed? Check in details here.

How Does Networking Help Improve Your Career?

Know the importance of networking in career development and delve into the benefits it ...

5 Medical Jobs That Can Never Be Automated

Check the 5 medical professions that can not be replaced by the artificial intelligence.

Footwear Design: A Creative And Technical Career Choice

Explore the world of footwear design and know the creative processes, technical aspects...

Part Time Jobs After 12th

The following article is meant to give students an insight into the part time jobs afte...

Jobs After 12th Commerce - Know How to Get In, Roles...

Jobs After 12th Commerce - This following article will inform you about the various jo...

Jobs After 12th - Check Eligibility, Job Options

Jobs After 12th - Check out the overview of job options you can pursue directly after c...

Most Respected Jobs In India: Check Eligibility, Exa...

Most Respected Jobs In India - The following article will take you through the list of ...

What Can A Degree In Hotel Management Offer?

This article explores hotel management, scope, industry trends, and the jobs available ...

Anthropology - A Holistic Subject That Opens A Numbe...

Careers in Anthropology - Know the scope of anthropology as a career check more about t...

Cultivating A Green Career: Explore Careers In Envir...

Know the top 10 career opportunities that are there in the field of environmental scien...

How Can Pinterest Help You Plan Your Career Goals?

Know how Pinterest can help you to plan your career goals. Get ideas that can be your i...

A Career In Medicine: Who Should Consider Becoming A...

Career in Medicine - Know if it is right for you? Check who should consider becoming a ...

5 Things to Never Say At An Interview

Avoid Saying These Things At An Interview - this article listed a few things to never s...

What Must You Know Before Pursuing A Career In Cyber...

This article explores various steps one can take to foray into the world of cybersecuri...

All You Need To Know About Certificate Courses Offer...

AYUSH certification courses - this article contains a list of AYUSH certification progr...

Indian Foreign Services: All You Need To Know About ...

Find out how to become a diplomat in India, check education qualifications, skills and ...

Logistics Management: How Is Flipkart’s Quick Delive...

Logistics Management - Interview with a logistics manager working with Flipkart wherein...

Questions related to Travel Journalist

I want to study travel journalism in particular and this year i was supposed to appear for my 12th boards, which got cancelled. i want to know which courses of journalism shall i take to become a travel journalist, which subjects shall i study and which colleges would be the best to study..

Hello Aspirant,

Courses to opt to become a travel journalist are as follows:

• B.J. (Bachelor of Journalism)
• B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) Journalism
• B.M.M. (Bachelor of Mass Media)
• B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication
• B.A. in Journalism and Mass Media
• B.A. in Journalism and Communication Studies to be a journalist

Best Colleges you can go for:

• Asian College of Journalism
• Indian Institute of Mass Communication
• Xavier's Institute of Communication
• Symbiosis International University
• Delhi University
• GGS IP University
• Amity University
• Jamia Millia Islamia.

For more information about the course, check this link mentioned below: https://www.careers360.com/careers/travel-journalist

Hope this information helps you!

All the best!

Select your reason of reporting

The Question containing Inaapropriate or Abusive Words

Question lacks the basic details making it difficult to answer

Topic Tagged to the Question are not relevant to Question

Question drives traffic to external sites for promotional or commercial purposes

The Question is not relevant to User

Explore Related Careers

You can also explore

The details of a career as Travel Journalist has been sent to your registered email ID successfully.

Sign In/Sign Up

We endeavor to keep you informed and help you choose the right Career path. Sign in and access our resources on Exams, Study Material, Counseling, Colleges etc.

Help us to help you.

Download the Careers360 App on your Android phone

Regular exam updates, QnA, Predictors, College Applications & E-books now on your Mobile

• 150M + Students
• 30,000 + Colleges
• 500 + Exams
• 1500 + E-books

• Roy's Story
• Travel Writing Workshops in 2023
• *ONLINE* Travel Writing & Marketing Master Class
• Group Coaching 2022
• Coaching and Mentoring Services
• Consulting Services for Travel Writers
• eBooks, Manuals, Resource Guides
• The Pitching Process
• Getting Published
• Find Your Niche
• Dreaming Up Story Ideas
• Query Letters
• Why You Need a Coach
• All About Press Trips
• Travel Planning
• Travel Shows
• Travel Photography
• Travel Gear
• Travel Accessories
• Travel Writing Craft
• The Business of Writing
• Social Media, Blogs & Websites
• Travel Writing Courses
• Travel Blogs
• FAQs - Working with Editors
• Reader Testimonials
• Articles About Freelance Writing
• Book Reviews
• eZine Sign-up
• PitchTravelWrite Blog
• Business Basics for Travel Writers
• Make Money Travel Writing

How to Make Money Travel Writing: Think in Multiple Income Streams

By Roy Stevenson

In a previous article, Can You Make Money as a Travel Writer?   I made the point that it’s important to have another steady source of income before you embark on this journey.  Making money as a travel writer takes time. This follow-up article shows you several ways that you, as a freelance travel journalist, can earn more income.  So, if your goal is to make a go of it in freelancing, this article is for you. One of the keys is to expand your boundaries within the areas of “travel” and “writing”.

Expand Your Genres and Cross Some Borders

Few, if any, freelance travel writers sustain themselves solely through writing for magazines and newspapers.  However, savvy travel writers who enjoy writing for print media maximize their outlets and make money by … •    Writing in multiple magazine genres •    Expanding into international magazines and newspapers, and •    Selling their knowledge and experiences online   If you look at my writer’s website, Roy-Stevenson.com you’ll see that I write in several different genres.  I write about travel and culture, and related topics like wine, beer, and food.  I also dabble in communications, military history, vehicles, weapons, and film festivals.  Often my genre articles have a travel bent, but I write them for specialty magazines. I’ve also had several hundred articles published in fitness, health, sports, running and triathlon magazines.  I’ve even written several dozen articles for writing magazines about the craft of writing. Writing in multiple genres has these advantages: 

• It opens up a broad range of subjects and is more interesting than having a single focus.  It encompasses all your interests and experiences - and may help you grow into new areas.
• It opens up a broader market to sell your articles - beyond travel magazines. 
• And, it opens up opportunities for additional income.  Many genres are more lucrative than the travel genre.

Whether you’re writing travel articles or you’re writing about almost any other topic, another way to make money and expand your market is to write for international publications.  I’ve sold articles in just about every English-speaking country in the world.  Because query letters are sent via email these days, and payment can be done electronically, there truly are no borders when it comes to where you can sell your stories.

Expand into Travel Guidebooks

But, even with a wide variety of print outlets, most enterprising freelance writers have other streams of income to make ends meet.  Writing guidebooks is a potential way to make money for any travel writer.  There are several approaches you can take in this area. Here’s an example of one of the most successful U.S. travel writers who started out by writing a guidebook:  Rick Steves of Europe Through the Back Door fame. Mr. Steves started out by writing his own guidebooks, and grew that experience into a popular PBS TV and DVD travel series.  He eventually expanded into a thriving tour business and he now employs a large staff of tour guides who lead tours throughout Europe.  He offers travel consulting services for people who want help planning their trip to Europe.  He also sells an exclusive line of travel gear in his store in Edmonds, Washington, and online.  No, this isn’t an ad for Rick Steves - but it’s a great example of diversification!  And it started with a guidebook. There are sometimes opportunities to write for guidebook companies like Frommers, Fodor’s, Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, and others, but a few words of warning:

• these positions are much sought after because they’re considered prestigious, and
• guidebook publishers don’t pay as well as you might think.

With the large increase in freelance travel writers over the past decade, guidebook publishers pay considerably less than they did in the last two decades of the twentieth century.  It's not so easy to make money this way. Nevertheless, having guidebook bylines is an impressive addition to your portfolio and will certainly enhance your credibility for other types of travel writing assignments. If you’re offered the opportunity to write a guidebook, be sure to do the math before you commit to it:

This gives you a rough idea of your hourly pay.  If the final hourly figure is disappointing, decline the offer.  Several guidebook writers have told me their earnings covered their travel expenses with little or no pay for their time.  In other words, their travel was comped but they didn't make money. Writing guidebooks takes a lot of time and effort;  your other writing projects get put on hold.  Calculate whether writing a guidebook is financially worthwhile before you commit to it.  Here’s an example: A few years ago, a travel writing peer offered to recommend me to a guidebook publisher.  The book was about waterfall hikes in Washington State. The publisher was offering a $2,000 advance and another $2,000 upon completion of the book. While this seemed like a nice chunk of change, a few quick calculations showed that it was not a good business proposition after all. After I did the math, I determined I would actually be in the hole for a couple of thousand dollars after travel expenses.  Then, when I factored in the loss of income by putting other writing projects on hold during that time, it would have been financially disastrous.  I politely declined the opportunity, tempting as it seemed. When you write a book for someone else, they dangle royalty payments as an incentive.  In truth, you can’t count on royalty payments - they might never materialize.  You’ll also be expected to promote the guidebook - even though the publisher will make most of the money.  There’s something wrong with that picture. In my opinion, if you want to make money by writing guidebooks, then write, publish, and sell your own guidebooks.

Expand into Non-Fiction Travel Books

The next time you’re in your local bookstore, browse through the travel section.  You’ll find dozens of entertaining books about the authors’ travel experiences. 

Here are some examples (note: some are amazon affiliate links and we'll make a few cents if you click on it and make a purchase) : I recently read a hilarious and very saucy travel memoir by Kristin Newman entitled What I Was Doing While You Were Breeding .  My wife and I both enjoyed reading it and laughing at her antics across the globe.

Of course, everyone has heard of Elizabeth Gilbert’s life crisis/travel odyssey Eat, Pray, Love .  It sold gazillions of copies and was turned into a popular movie starring Julia Roberts.

A friend of mine, Chris Wallace, wrote a travel memoir Prepare to Come About - about life transformation.  It’s her story about how navigating the Salish Sea on the historic Schooner Zodiac helped her - and her family - get their bearings. If you're a boat enthusiast you'll relate to her experiences. Although I wasn’t a character in the book, I was aboard a couple of the cruises she highlights in her book.  (Side note:  The cruises on the Schooner Zodiac are awesome - if you’re ever in Washington State you should plan one into your itinerary:  www.schoonerzodiac.com .)

Other notable authors in the travel writing pantheon include Mark Twain, Paul Theroux, Bill Bryson, Pico Iyer, Michael Palin, and Rolf Potts.  Read some of their books and you’ll understand why they’re so popular. Many veteran travel writers compile their stories and articles into anthologies for public consumption.  Some of them do well out of it, and it’s a good way to recycle your travel stories.  You might need to do a little re-packaging, but it's a way you can make money. 

Become a Tour Leader

I know several other travel writers who lead tour groups for educational or commercial tour companies. 

In fact, at my recent travel-marketing workshop in Seattle, three of the attendees were also tour operators and guides.  Travel writing is an area they are exploring to supplement their work with tours.  In the words of one of the participants, she wants to:  “go on a trip without 60 people trailing behind me.” Leading tours is also a great way to visit a destination and get to know it intimately.  Your expenses are covered, and you can sniff out a few stories while you’re doing your job.

Expand into Copywriting to Make Money

Writing marketing copy for businesses has tremendous earning potential for freelance writers.  I’ve met many travel writers who are primarily copywriters.  It's their main way to make money because it's a more lucrative source of income.  They dabble in travel writing as a sideline to score an occasional press trip.  More power to them. Copywriters crank out everything from brochures and reports to sales letters and newsletters, and white papers.  Some copywriters specialize in corporate websites and blogs.  Well-established copywriters generally make good money, and six-figure incomes are not unusual for savvy copywriters. The disadvantage, if you don’t choose your client base carefully, is that it can be boring.  It doesn’t have the glitz and glamour of travel writing.  I do occasional copywriting, from writing book reviews to publicity emails, but this isn’t one of my strong interests or a significant revenue stream for me.  However, there are plenty of experts out there who love this field and can help you break into copywriting.  If you’re looking for a down-to-earth, personal approach to learning the ropes of copywriting, Pete Bowerman, aka The Well-Fed Writer can help you.  Pete’s website is a “no-hype” information portal for aspiring and experienced copywriters.  There’s a real person behind it, and he has a myriad of resources to help beginners and experienced copywriters. If this interests you, I suggest you start by watching the short video on his home page at this (affiliate) link:  www.wellfedwriter.com .

Selling Your Knowledge & Experience Online

Deriving income from several sources, or “multiple income streams” is the approach most successful freelancers take these days. 

As I mentioned in Part 1 of this series, one of those sources of income can be a job.  Or, it can be a variety of other freelance work like many of us have done.  There’s one other avenue worth exploring, depending on your expertise and your desire to make a living as a freelancer.  You can sell your knowledge and experience online. And that’s the topic for Part 3 of this series, where I’ll talk about how I do it, and how others have done it, too.

Related articles that will interest you:

Travel Writing Business Basics

Part 1:  Travel Writers - Can You Really Make Money?

Travel Writing Reality Check

Roy Stevenson is a professional travel writer and the author of www.PitchTravelWrite.com.  Over the past ten years, he’s had more than 1000 articles published in 200 magazines, trade and specialty journals, in-flights, on-boards, blogs and websites and has traveled on assignment around the U.S. and to dozens of international destinations.

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS POST, GET UPDATES.  IT'S FREE.

Recent Articles

Travel Writer: A Day in the Life - on the road and in the office

Apr 15, 24 02:31 PM

AI Travel Writing: Will Robots Replace Humans?

Apr 15, 24 02:15 PM

Emily Corak: My Travel Writing Story

Apr 14, 24 08:03 PM

Books and Services

Here's how much some of the industry's most successful travel bloggers are earning

We speak to four former journalists about why they made the switch to blogging.

This month, we’ve focussed predominately on why I [Steph] have made blogging a central part of my travel writing career. But I’m certainly not the only one who’s chosen to head down this road. That’s why in this edition, we’re talking to former journalists turned bloggers about what encouraged them to take the leap and, most importantly, what impact it’s had on their careers.

As we’ll see, while I make most of my income through advertising revenue, affiliates and my own products and services, there are other ways to make a viable income from a blog, including brand partnerships and even running conferences tailored to helping other bloggers learn their trade. This is one of the characteristics of this field that has always most appealed to me: you’re in control of how you run your business and no two blogging strategies ever look the same.

So let’s find out how four other journalists established successful travel blogs — and how much they make from them.

Brett Love, co-founder of Green Global Travel and Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

How long have you been blogging .

I started blogging in 2010 when Mary (my wife and business partner) and I launched our first website, Green Global Travel , which was one of the world's first blogs to focus on responsible travel and the conservation of nature, wildlife, and indigenous cultures. 

What was the initial reason you moved from travel journalism to travel blogging?

There were a few reasons. First, I'd been wanting to find a way to focus on ecotourism since the late '90s, when I learned about the concepts during press trips to Costa Rica, Alaska, and South Africa as the Mng Editor of a chain of college newspapers. Originally I thought I'd write a book, or maybe launch a magazine. But by 2010 blogging was emerging as an easy self-publishing option. 

Second, having freelanced from 1995 to 2010, I could see the changes in the industry coming a mile away. Print publications were disappearing, budgets were shrinking, competition increasing, and editors wanted quick, easy-to-read stories that didn't make people think too much. And none of my dozens of clients (mostly airline and luxury hotel magazines) were interested in my ecotourism pitches. 

Lastly, Mary got laid off in late 2009 from a company she'd managed for 10 years. The economy in the US at the time was terrible, and she wasn't finding jobs that paid her what she was worth. We had to decide, should she keep working in the corporate world, spending two hours a day in traffic and days filled with stress, for half what she'd made at her old job? Or should we become entrepreneurs, and gamble on ourselves? Honestly, starting a blog was the best decision we ever made!

This post is for paid subscribers

The Rick Steves guide to life

Travel mogul. philanthropist. legal weed champion. the real rick steves is so much more complex than who you see on tv..

EDMONDS, Wash. — At first glance, it is hard to tell that Rick Steves is protesting.

In the center of his hometown, America’s favorite travel host is perched on the edge of a fountain roundabout engaging in some friendly civil disobedience. As cars circle the intersection, Steves smiles and waves, looking more like an Elf on a Shelf than an angry picketer. This is his way of reminding people he wishes they’d stop driving here.

Steves’s family moved to Edmonds when he was 12, and the 68-year-old is still happy to call it home. Rather than relocate to his beloved Europe, he dreams of bringing some European sensibilities to the edge of the Puget Sound, less than 20 miles north of Seattle.

When he’s not traveling around Europe, writing about Europe or running his multimillion dollar European tour company, the prolific TV host and author likes to squeeze in some local activism. The roundabout routine is his push to block off Edmonds’s very American Main Street for pedestrians. If you squint at it, you can see what Steves sees: this would be the perfect place for a lively town square.

“I like a lot of things about Europe but I love the urban energy of Europe. I love the piazza,” Steves said in a wistful tone you might recognize from PBS. “We don’t have a piazza.”

Unfortunately for Steves, the voting majority of the city does not love the idea of parking their SUVs farther away to shop. So despite his Boy Scout enthusiasm, the most famous man in Edmonds must keep up the perch-and-wave. This is not his only crusade.

Spend any amount of time with Steves, and you’ll encounter a total ham who loves a zany bit. But if you ask him about serious issues like car-free zones, he’ll bring up other causes that are dear to him: affordable housing, supporting the arts, creating senior centers for the elderly to age with dignity.

He’s anti-Trump and pro-cannabis. He does not care if that is bad for business.

The average Rick Steves fan has likely missed this side of him. On TV they see an always-sunny history lover who makes going abroad feel approachable for the average American. That’s an incomplete picture, like thinking you know Paris because you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower on YouTube.

Meet him in Edmonds, and he’ll fill in the rest.

It may look like a lot of gallivanting, but being Rick Steves takes a lot of work.

He spends three months of the year overseas, researching, writing, recording, refining tours, updating guidebooks. If he’s not planning or producing content, he’s often doing promotional events across the United States. This year Steves is celebrating the 40th edition of his first book, “Europe Through the Back Door.” Over the course of his career, he’s built a privately held company that generates $120 million in revenue a year, published 110 books, filmed 12 seasons of “Rick Steves’ Europe” and produced more than 750 podcast episodes.

“It’s just like coordinating a three-ring circus,” Steves said.

That is: really fun, sort of exhilarating and extremely complicated. To pull this off, Steves does not observe the French 35-hour workweek. He’s a workhorse with a reputation for keeping a frenetic pace year-round.

“It’s more of an American work culture,” Amy Duncan, Steves’s communications director, told me. “He’s an unapologetic capitalist but he is also a socialist.”

He makes enough money to fly first class, but he only sits in economy, claiming he doesn’t mind being cramped.

“It never occurred to me that I’m suffering,” he said. “As long as I’ve got an aisle and a seat that reclines, I’m happy.”

Actually, Steves believes airlines should only have one class. It’s part of his egalitarian worldview. He’s also anti-points and anti-miles, refusing to sign up for airline loyalty programs because he believes they bully us into complicating our lives.

Steves also enforces a self-imposed “ carbon tax ” on his tour company, which takes more than 30,000 people to Europe annually. For every customer, Steves invests $30 to atone for emissions created by their flights between the United States and Europe. Last year, that added up to $1 million donated to a portfolio of organizations, Steves said.

“I don’t need to be a slave to the quarterly profit statement. I want to be around and profitable in 10 years from now in a world that you can travel in that’s stable,” Steves said. “This is a smart investment and it’s an ethical expense that I should pay for.”

Rick Steves will tell you he’s motivated by making money; the more he can earn, the more good he can do with it.

“Vicarious consumption, that’s one of my things,” Steves said.

After amassing a windfall from the 2001 George W. Bush tax cuts for high earners, Rick Steves donated $1 million to support the local symphony and performing arts center. In 2005, he used retirement savings to buy a 24-unit apartment complex for the local YWCA’s use as transitional housing for women and children. He figured he’d eventually sell the complex and live on the earnings. About a decade later, he changed his mind and donated the complex valued at $4 million.

He also gave more than $4 million to help build the Edmonds Waterfront Center, a vibrant gathering place for seniors where his daughter had her wedding in 2021. And he gave another $2 million for a similar center in the nearby city of Lynnwood, which broke ground in mid-April .

“Rick puts his money where his mouth is,” said Nancy Leson, a former Seattle Times food critic who used to let Steves’s daughter babysit her son. She’s appreciated his regular presence in the community, like hosting events for local politics at his house and shopping at the farmers market .

“He changed travel,” local resident Karen Howe said on her way into the Waterfront Center with a friend. She’s used Steves’s guidebooks for years. “He’s introduced us to places that most of us would never think of going.”

Rick Steves hasn’t won his piazza battle, but he has brought European touches to Edmonds. At the Rick Steves’ Europe headquarters, there’s an E.U. flag hanging from the mocha brick facade. And gargoyles that drain rainwater, just like at the Notre Dame cathedral.

“Gargoyles scare away evil spirits,” Steves points out, unable to suppress his inner tour guide.

Here Steves employs more than 100 people: editors, audio producers, tour specialists and cartographers such as Dave Hoerlein, his first employee. That’s excluding the fleet of guides and drivers he contracts across the pond to shepherd tour customers.

Inside, he bounds through a maze of cubicles, his neck craned forward, always at an eager pace. His 6-foot frame appears leaner than previous seasons of his life, but his signature look is familiar. No, not khakis and a button-down. That’s vintage Rick. These days, he wears dark jeans and a button-down, plus a thin scarf and leather sneakers.

During a day of meetings, Steves’s fjord-blue eyes lit up at the minutia of the business. He went over new maps with Hoerlein. He and longtime co-author Cameron Hewitt addressed problems like finding a “less glitzy” stop on the Amalfi Coast that’s not Sorrento. They discussed whether a place is worth visiting after it’s gotten too popular, and Steves indulged in some gallows humor.

“It’s going to be like holding the corpse of a loved one who just died,” he said.

His critics argue the “Rick Steves Effect” can turn a charming village, restaurant or museum into a tourist magnet. Matthew Kepnes, the travel writer behind the blog Nomadic Matt , points to the Swiss town Zermatt, which he says Steves put on the map, and has since dealt with overtourism . You’re bound to bump into groups with Rick Steves guidebooks in Italy’s increasingly crowded Cinque Terre.

Whether Steves is actually to blame for changing a place is up for debate. There are plenty of destinations he’s covered that haven’t been inundated with swarms of Americans (see also: Gdańsk).

Steves says he assesses whether a place wants tourism, if it can handle it gracefully. If they don’t or can’t, he may mention it but not promote it.

He has faith — maybe too much — that his clients share his values.

“Does [my work] change the personality of a town? It can. Am I a dramatic impact on Europe? No,” he said.

“There’s a handful of places I really promote aggressively that I’ve had a serious impact on, but otherwise ... my travelers are the kind of people that take only pictures and leave only footprints ... they’re good travelers.”

You don’t have to spend much time in Edmonds to see why Rick Steves never considered leaving.

The city — population roughly 42,000 — sits on a majestic inlet. You can get to a major international airport in about an hour. The community is so courteous, it has an “umbrella share” program in case people forget their own on a rainy day. As Steves walks around town, he greets people by name. He lives within walking distance to both his favorite diner and a pétanque court, the French answer to Italian bocce. He plays bongos at his church on Sundays.

In 1967, Richard “Dick” Steves moved the family here because he was worried about Rick Junior.

“I was hanging out with dangerous kids and going down the wrong trail,” Steves said. Seriously.

His dad, an Army veteran, got by in the upscale suburb as a piano technician and importer. When Steves was 14, his parents dragged him on a work trip to Europe to visit piano factories; it was a radical experience that sparked his lifelong passion for travel.

Back in Edmonds, Steves started teaching piano, eventually turning his savings into trips abroad of his own — not only to Europe, but Turkey, Nepal, Afghanistan. He went to college nearby, earning degrees in European history and business from the University of Washington, where he played in the Husky Marching Band.

After graduation, Steves figured he could keep up his routine: give piano lessons during the school year, then travel during the summer. He started teaching travel classes in the same recital hall where his piano students performed. This was back when there was no internet and few guidebooks to consult for trip planning.

The classes were a hit. At 25, Steves turned his lecture materials into a 180-page book, and self-published “Europe Through the Back Door,” in 1980.

Four years later, he hosted his first European minibus tour group, serving as both bus driver and guide.

His businesses have evolved — his bus tours now take up to 28 travelers, a number Steves says is a sweet spot between making the tour more affordable yet enjoyable for customers and profitable for the company. But his mission has remained the same: to be the best resource for European travel and help Americans travel better.

“I just focus on that and I love it,” he said. “It takes my life out of balance — which is not good — but it lets me do a lot of stuff that I believe in and that’s good.”

Steves has been open about the challenges of being a travel mogul. As he built his empire, he was also raising a family. Being “married” to both took a toll. In 2010, Steves and his wife, Anne, divorced after 25 years of marriage.

Up the hill from his junior high, Rick Steves’s modest beige home offers a window into his many lives. There are family photos on the walls, from older relatives to his baby grandson, Atlas. He hosts political fundraisers on the sprawling deck. A painting of Kerala, India, nods to one of his favorite countries (people forget Steves did four editions of “Asia Through the Back Door”).

Next to his grand piano, there’s a stuffed creature that Steves calls his “Silver Fox” baring its teeth and wearing novelty sunglasses with cannabis leaves on the lenses — a nod to two of his interests: taxidermy and marijuana activism.

“It’s the civil liberties … it’s the racism … everything about it is wrong,” he said of keeping weed illegal.

As for the toothy fox, Steves doesn’t do typical souvenirs anymore, but he makes an exception for stuffed animals.

“The wooden shoes and the pewter Viking ships are so obvious,” he said. “I like to do something a little more organic and a little more striking and it takes me back there — I like it.”

He’s a very good piano player. He can also play the sousaphone and the trumpet — which he did regularly during the pandemic, performing taps for his neighbors at sunset.

Covid-19 was a nightmare for the travel business, but a miracle for Rick Steves’s love life.

After running in the same social circles for years, he and Shelley Bryan Wee, a prominent local bishop, started dating at the end of 2019. They had a lot in common. Both are progressive Lutherans. Both are divorced with adult children. But neither worked a typical 9-to-5, and one of them spent three months of the year in Europe.

Then lockdown happened. Steves, who couldn’t remember if he’d ever had dinner in the same place 10 nights in a row, spent 100 nights at the same table with Wee. It solidified their relationship.

“Shelley is a constant,” Steves said. He still struggles with the balancing act between work and love.

When the stars align and they’re both in Edmonds, Wee cooks, and Steves plays sous chef. They walk Jackson, Wee’s labradoodle, creating their own version of the passeggiata, Italy’s traditional evening stroll. They play table tennis before dinner.

When the world reopened, they started traveling together. They’ve made time for a few big vacations: a trip to Morocco, where they were caught in a windstorm that blew the windows out of their car; a luxury barge cruise through Burgundy, France, “that was embarrassingly expensive,” Steves confessed, followed by a week hiking in the Swiss Alps; and another hiking trip between remote lodges on Mont Blanc.

Before their first trip, Steves edited the contents of Wee’s suitcase, because packing light is part of his philosophy.

“What do you say?” she asked. “You’re talking to Rick Steves.”

Editing by Gabe Hiatt. Additional editing by Amanda Finnegan. Design editing by Christine Ashack. Photo editing by Lauren Bulbin. Videos by Monica Rodman. Senior video producer: Nicki DeMarco. Design by Katty Huertas. Copy editing by Jamie Zega.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

• You can still find affordable flights to Europe this summer April 18, 2024 You can still find affordable flights to Europe this summer April 18, 2024
• See how jamón gets made in the heartland of Spanish pork April 16, 2024 See how jamón gets made in the heartland of Spanish pork April 16, 2024
• What to know about Schengen zone, Europe’s ‘border-free’ travel system April 3, 2024 What to know about Schengen zone, Europe’s ‘border-free’ travel system April 3, 2024

Money latest: Changes to Spotify and energy bills announcement - key money dates in May

As April rolls into May, we take a look at the key money dates to add to your calendar this month - including Spotify price changes and an energy price cap announcement. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 11:26, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• Key dates for Spotify customers, energy bills, free childcare and interest rates in May
• Cheapest dates, and days of week, to fly this summer
• Wait for interest rate cut leads to surprise dip in house price growth

Essential reads

• Turns out supermarket boss was right about self-checkouts
• State pensions 'could be in doubt for future generations'
• One of UK's top chefs reveals best Cheap Eats in Norfolk - and cling film tip for amazing veg
• Money Problem : 'Builders won't repair dodgy work - what are my rights?'
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches

Ask a question or make a comment

Are you struggling because of high interest rates? Sky News is keen to hear from people who are due to refix their mortgages this year or are on a variable rate or tracker mortgage or trying to get on the housing ladder. 

Email us your stories at  [email protected]  - or WhatsApp us  here .

In what seems to be becoming a daily occurrence, four more lenders have announced mortgage rate rises.

Halifax, BM Solutions and Virgin are all doing so for the second time in around a week. They're joined by Nottingham Building Society.

Halifax are increasing rates on purchase products by up to 0.2%; BM Solutions by up to 0.24%. These begin tomorrow.

Virgin increased rates on products between 0.08% and 0.2% yesterday evening, while Nottingham has lifted rates this morning by up to 0.25%.

Mortgage rates have spiked in the last two weeks as financial markets have moved from pricing in a base rate cut in June to thinking it will come in August. Expectations of three cuts this year are now two.

The backdrop is sticky inflation in the US - and concern the global and domestic battle against rising prices isn't over yet.

Skipton had actually announced some decreases - but any optimism from this proved momentary.

Dariusz Karpowicz, director at Albion Financial Advice, told Newspage: "The atmosphere in the mortgage market is rather grim, with major players like Halifax, BM Solutions, Virgin and Nottingham Building Society repeatedly raising their fixed rates.

"This pattern of frequent rate hikes, sometimes occurring multiple times within a week, is casting a shadow over market sentiment. 

"The anticipated 'spring bounce' is nowhere in sight; instead, we're witnessing a continuation of mortgage woes. 

"Higher rates are expected to dampen buyer enthusiasm and potentially delay any positive momentum. 

"As for when borrowers can expect relief, it hinges on broader economic stabilisation. For now, the outlook remains cautious and subdued."

As April rolls into May, let's take a look at the key money dates to add to your calendar this month. 

A small note before we jump in - May is a month with a couple of bank holidays, so if any of your benefits payments would normally fall on those days, you'll get the money on the previous working day instead.

1 May - Prescription price change

The cost of your NHS prescription increases by 25p today - from £9.65 to £9.90.

Repeat prescription customers can apply for a prepayment certificate (PPC) which charges a fixed amount for a set period of prescriptions.

However, the cost of a one-year PCC will also rise to £114.50 from £111.60 - a rise of almost £3.

9 May - Interest rate decision 

Next week, the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will meet for its latest review of interest rates. 

The MPC has decided to freeze the base rate at 5.25% over recent months.

While nothing is guaranteed, the BoE is widely expected among economists to hold the rate once again - thought to be waiting for inflation to get closer to the Bank's 2% target. 

12 May - Free childcare applications open

From 12 May, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old will be able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

You won't be able to claim the hours until September. 

Check if you're eligible here . 

15 May - Subway loyalty points changes

Sandwich giant Subway has outlined a series of measures in its branches regarding its loyalty schemes. 

Customers have until 14 May to use the current scheme before it changes to a new app-only loyalty scheme. 

From 15 May, any points will expire and become unredeemable.

May 24 - Energy price cap announcement

Regulator Ofgem will announce the new energy price cap for the period 1 July to 30 September.

The current price cap (£1,690 a year) is expected by analysts at Cornwall Insights to fall by just over £100 to around £1,559 for the average household per year. 

Spotify hikes 

As we reported in the Money blog, Spotify will hike its prices by around £2 per month...

Depending on a customer's billing date, payment change to the higher rate will fall in either May or June. 

Spotify has said it will email existing customers with one-month's notice of the increase.

By James Sillars , business reporter

A piece of good news to bring you: a welcome fall in oil costs.

A barrel of Brent crude started the week close to $88.

It is trading at $85 today after three days of declines – the latest in Asian trading today.

The major move lower, however, came yesterday afternoon.

Analysts credited increasing hopes of a ceasefire agreement in the Middle East and on rising US crude inventories and production.

It's been another positive start to the day for the FTSE 100 - rising 0.1% to 8.157 points in early deals.

The index has started higher each session this week but, in truth, it has struggled to make big inroads since last week's record closing high.

Banks and miners are leading the way.

Next, however, was among the fallers despite posting a strong rise in full price sales.

The first quarter increase of 5.7% was above market expectations but the retailer, usually renowned for keeping expectations low and over-delivering, maintained its guidance for annual sales and profits.

Its shares were 1.2% lower.

Among the fallers in the wider market was Aston Martin Lagonda.

The luxury carmaker's stock was almost 9% down after posting bigger than expected quarterly losses.

EasyJet passengers were left scrambling to rebook flights after they were wrongly told their flights were cancelled "due to Israel". 

The airline sent emails and text messages to holidaymakers informing them their flights would not be taking off on 28 April as planned - before scrambling to let them know, an hour later, that there had been a mistake.

Amid the confusion, travellers shared their frustration on social media, with one asking: "Is this a scam? EasyJet App is not showing cancellation and has allowed me to check in."

The airline has since released a statement confirming there was a technical error.

"EasyJet can confirm that unfortunately, on 28 April, some customers received an incorrect notification stating that their flight on 30 April was cancelled," a spokesperson told Sky News.

"This was due to a technical error and all customers were quickly sent updated messages with a confirmation their flight is operating as normal. We would like to apologise for this and any inconvenience caused."

Shifting expectations for UK interest rate cuts have contributed to a dip in house price growth, according to a closely watched measure.

Nationwide reported a 0.4% fall in average property costs last month compared with March, taking the annual rate of growth to 0.6% from 1.6%.

Economists polled by the Reuters news agency had expected month-on-month growth of 0.2%.

The lender's report said the easing reflected "ongoing affordability pressures, with longer term interest rates rising in recent months, reversing the steep fall seen around the turn of the year".

Read the full story here ...

Every Wednesday we get Michelin chefs, top bloggers or critics to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live and at home. This week we speak to one of the most renowned chefs in the UK, Galton Blackiston of the Michelin-starred Morston Hall in Norfolk.

He's gone the extra mile in his Cheap Eats at home - uploading a how-to video to Instagram.

Hi  Galton, c an you tell us your favourite places in Norfolk where you can get a meal for two for less than £40?

Allium in Downham Market , a family run restaurant which involves mum, dad, Joe in kitchen and James front of house. Open Wednesday through to Sunday, it has a great vibe on a Saturday evening and great food.

Bure River Restaurant , a tiny restaurant on the broads in Horning cooking lovely fish dishes.

Final cheap place is the Parlour in Binham , where they have a great restaurant and you put money into an honesty box for their local cheese from the village and raw milk from their farm - a great place to visit in Norfolk.

What's your go-to cheap meal at home?

Toad in the hole with a baked potato and hispi cabbage and onion gravy.

A good tip I would say is to colour off the sausages in dripping then pour over the batter, which should be eight eggs, 250g plain flour, one pint of full fat milk, salt pepper and nutmeg. Whisk together and allow to sit for an hour til you use. 

And this is how you do the hispi cabbage with cling film over the pan...

Flight prices often rocket in the summer, but it turns out particular dates can prove cheaper. 

Research by Expedia has revealed the best dates to book your trips... 

The cheapest times to fly 

If you're flying domestic, the best dates for your wallet are 28 July, 19 August and 23 August. 

Expedia also recommends booking your domestic flights for a Wednesday to save roughly 20%. 

For those travelling internationally, the cheapest dates are 2 and 13 June, and 28 August. 

When it comes to booking, you can save about 15% if you book for a Thursday versus at the weekend. 

The quietest times to fly

If you care more about a quieter airport, the least busy dates for flying domestic are 10 June, and 11 and 19 July. 

For international flights, the best dates are 4 June, and 27 and 30 August. 

And the dates to avoid...

The most expensive domestic flights are on 30 June, and 8 and 16 July. 

International flights are pricier on 22, 23 and 29 July. 

Meanwhile, Expedia says 30 June and 24 July will be the busiest air travel days for domestic and international destinations. 

Domestic flights are busiest on 30 June, and 8 and 16 July. 

For international flights, 10, 21 and 24 June are the busiest. 

The advertising watchdog has banned a Premier Inn ad for misleading claims about room prices. 

A paid-for search ad for the hotel chain, seen on 4 November, had stated: "Premier Inn Edinburgh - rooms from only £35 per night."

It was referred to the advertising watchdog after a reader complained they couldn't find any rooms at the advertised price. 

Whitbread Group, trading as Premier Inn, provided the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) with data showing there were a total of 377 rooms on offer for £35 in Edinburgh within the 365-day booking window.

But the ASA said customers would understand the ad to mean a significant proportion of rooms available would be £35.

Read the full story, including Premier Inn's response, here ...

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

The Maya Train Will Get You to All of Yucatán’s Best Spots. But Not Yet.

In December, the train began running on its first route through Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. On a five-day journey a few months later, the author encountered enthusiasm, and scheduling hiccups.

By Elisabeth Malkin

Elisabeth Malkin has been visiting the Yucatán Peninsula for three decades.

I stepped off the platform at the gleaming new Maxcanú train station, eager to see the magnificent Maya archaeological site of Uxmal. All I needed was a taxi to take me there, a trip of about 30 miles away.

There are no taxis, said the stationmaster, as we stood on the polished limestone floors of the high-ceilinged station, which was cool and breezy despite the brilliant late-morning sun outside. And I was the third person in two weeks to get off at Maxcanú expecting to reach Uxmal, he said.

I was midway through a five-day trip to explore the brand-new Maya Train and several of its destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico . Designed to run 965 miles (1,554 kilometers) around a loop of 34 stations when completed, the train will whisk passengers in cool comfort through colonial cities, archaeological sites, splashy resorts and tropical forests.

Now I was stunned. Wrangling a taxi has never been a problem in Mexico. But the drivers gathered in the main square of Maxcanú offered only beat-up vans that hopscotch through small towns, where I might or might not find a taxi to Uxmal. The next van was leaving in 45 minutes.

Yucatán’s layers of history have long held me spellbound. During earlier car trips, I have clambered up deserted Maya temples and palaces, stepped into the cool naves of massive 16th-century churches and visited restored haciendas, testaments of the ostentation — and hardship — of the peninsula’s 19th-century plantation economy. Traveling by train, I thought, would allow me to steep myself in more of that history.

But as I found in Maxcanú, a train won’t necessarily get you to where you want to go.

During my February trip, I traveled on the only route then available, an east-west leg that opened in December and runs from Cancún to Mérida, and then south through the port city of Campeche to the Maya site of Palenque (a short route between Cancún and Playa del Carmen opened last month, with three trains a day). I encountered scheduling confusion, unfinished stations and a dearth of trains — just two operating daily each way between Cancún and Campeche, and only one to Palenque. Overnight sleepers and special dining trains seem years away.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador considers the Maya Train his showcase development project, and wants to inaugurate the rest of the train before he leaves office on October 1. Based on my experience, that goal seems elusive.

A $29-billion route through the jungle

I started my journey in Cancún, where in the pre-dawn gloom the station hovered like a glowing spaceship. An attendant scanned the ticket I had bought online and a half-dozen more pointed me toward my tourist-class car, which was about a quarter full. I planned to go to Campeche, about 300 miles away, stopping once each day. At 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) an hour, the train covers the route in about six hours, the same as a car. (When construction is complete, the train’s speed should increase to 160 kilometers an hour.)

The car’s wide windows looked out at a wall of low jungle. The blue-green seats were comfortable and there was ample space between the rows. I bought a very good cappuccino at the snack bar, but declined the plastic-wrapped sandwiches. The rest of the merchandise was fruit cups, milk boxes and junk food.

The train will ultimately cost much more than the $29 billion budgeted so far, and it’s not the first time ambitious planners have alighted on the region. Cancún was once a tiny fishing village, selected half a century ago as a tourist hub. Last year 10 million international tourists flew into its airport, more than the airports of Mexico City, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta combined.

But uncontrolled growth has stressed the Caribbean coast’s fragile environment. The Maya Train, scientists warn , will push those problems south, threatening the area’s water supply, its unique system of underground limestone caves and its vast nature reserves.

Mr. López Obrador has charged ahead, handing the train over to the military , and arguing that it will spread Cancún’s wealth and attract new visitors. Mexico received more than 42 million overseas tourists last year and they spent almost $31 billion .

Local governments see an opportunity. “The train will allow people to disperse throughout the peninsula,” said Michelle Fridman, the tourism secretary for Yucatán state, which promotes dozens of attractions far beyond highlights like Mérida and Chichén Itzá .

Now that the train is operating, transport companies will begin to connect stations with lesser-known sites nearby, she said.

It’s fair to ask whether the train is the most effective way to develop the peninsula’s tourism. Tour companies already run trips to many sites from major cities, which are well served by buses. Driving a rental car through most of the area is considered safe , according to U.S. State Department travel guidance .

Route of Mexico’s Maya Train

Canceled trip.

It took two hours (and one time-zone change) to reach Valladolid, a colonial city of handsome streets and ancient churches, where I bought the rest of my tickets at the station. A tourist-class ticket from Cancún to Valladolid costs 472 pesos (around $28) for foreigners and 355 pesos (around $21) for Mexicans. First class, with wider seats, costs 755.50 pesos and 566.50 pesos, and discounts are available for older travelers and residents of the five states along the train’s route. (A first-class bus from downtown Cancún to Valladolid costs between 222 and 344 pesos, depending on the time of day, and takes half an hour longer.)

It was impossible to run the new Maya Train tracks into dense city centers and the Valladolid station, like the rest, was outside the urban core. A waiting bus took disembarking passengers downtown, a 15-minute ride for 35 pesos.

That day I toured Ek Balam , the site of a ninth-century Maya kingdom that is dominated by a 100-foot palace distinguished by a facade of carvings depicting winged warriors, stylized animal features and geometric patterns bordered by giant fangs. Admission to the site includes entry to the X-Canché cenote, one of thousands of limestone sinkholes that were sacred to the Maya.

Later that afternoon, I was wandering through the Museum of Ethnic Clothing, a private collection of traditional dress, embroidery and hats, when a WhatsApp message from the ticket office blinked on my phone. My train scheduled for the following day was canceled.

I decided to deal with the problem in the morning and enjoy the city. As I wandered past the antique shops and boutique hotels of the elegant Calzada de los Frailes, it was clear that Valladolid’s tourism, and the infrastructure to handle it, was well established. The Maya Train is simply an alternative way to reach a city that tourists discovered years ago.

‘We’re on the Tren Maya!’

In the morning, I found that my train had not been canceled, but the station for which I had a ticket, Tixkokob, was closed. I got off instead one stop earlier at Izamal, known for its ocher streets and the giant Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop the ruins of a pyramid.

During the 90-minute ride, I heard widespread enthusiasm among fellow travelers who expressed a willingness to give the train time to work out the kinks. “We’re an experiment,” said Oliva Escobedo Ochoa, 64, who was vacationing from her home in central Mexico.

Leticia Iliassich, 57, who is Mexican, was traveling with her Croatian husband along with relatives from Mexico and Croatia. They had initially been scheduled on an earlier train to Mérida that had been canceled. “We knew that it was a new project,” she said. “We don’t mind.”

The group had already sent a video to friends declaring, “We’re on the Tren Maya!”

At the Izamal station I hitched a 15-minute ride into the town center with a man who had asked me to take his photo alongside the train and his father. From there I negotiated a taxi to Hacienda San Lorenzo Aké, a working hacienda that still turns the fiber from an agave plant called henequén into coarse rope. Global demand for henequén, known as Yucatán’s “green gold,” brought fantastic wealth to the region in the mid-19th century, speckling the peninsula with more than 1,000 haciendas. ( Many are now sumptuous hotels.)

Where geometry, nature and the divine merge

It was during my third day that I found myself stuck in Maxcanú, after a 90-minute train ride from Izamal. The stationmaster, an army captain, offered me a ride to Uxmal, just as he had to the stranded tourists before me.

Eying Uxmal’s 4 p.m. final ticket sale, I accepted.

My situation made it clear just how distant the Maya Train’s promises are for tourists seeking to explore more of Yucatán. In time, that will change, said Ms. Fridman, the tourism secretary. “The idea is to have more hotels along the train line,” she said. “That will happen little by little.”

But Uxmal , among the most stunning of the Maya sites, made up for the inconvenience. Uxmal’s grand buildings are faced with intricate decorative masks as well as friezes in which geometry, nature and the divine merge. New plaques at each structure offer detailed information in English and Spanish, part of the government’s investment in improving displays at Maya sites for the train project.

Most tourists either take day trips by car or bus to Uxmal from Mérida or stay at one of three nearby hotels. As I finished dinner at my hotel, the dining room began to fill up: 47 Polish tourists had arrived.

Panama hats and a cramped van

My plan for the day was to go by taxi to Bécal, a town where Panama hats are woven in limestone caves to keep the fibers soft, and then pick up the afternoon train in nearby Calkiní for the port city of Campeche.

But I spent so much time watching the hat-making demonstration and then fitting my new hat and buying gifts that we set off with little time to reach the station. To my chagrin, I missed the train, the last one of the day.

On Calkiní’s central square, I found a van that was leaving for Campeche. Cost: 65 pesos. Time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes, similar to what I would have spent on the train. Of course, I was trapped in a cramped seat and had to listen to the driver’s choice of sentimental ballads, but I was dropped off in downtown Campeche, close to my hotel.

The next day, I toured the Museum of Maya Archaeology , an expertly curated collection that included haunting jade funeral masks, glyphs and delicate ceramic figures.

José Madrigal, 45, an engineer from Fremont, Calif., was trying to make Maya pottery interesting for his twin sons. The boys had just turned 5 and their birthday present had been a ride on the Maya Train. “They love trains,” Mr. Madrigal said. Then the family moved on, keeping up a brisk clip through the museum. They had another train to catch.

Should you take the train?

Yes, if you are traveling between larger stations. The train also offers a way to get to Palenque, which is harder to reach and has roads with security concerns. Travelers can stow bicycles on board.

To see train times, check the destinations on the website . You cannot buy tickets online more than a week in advance. But when you finally board, the ride is smooth — and the coffee is excellent.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

More From Forbes

5 boutique luxury hotels you can’t miss in sri lanka.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Sri Lanka may conjure ideas of tropical coastlines flanked with palm-trees but this island is more than just a paradise for beaches. With 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, sacred cities and tea plantations, there’s a lot to experience in Sri Lanka’s interior during your trip. The “Cultural Triangle” — which includes Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Kandy — showcases the glory of Sri Lanka’s ancient empires, while its hill towns speak to its modern history as a British colony and are ideal for hiking, relaxing and immersing yourself in the country’s lush landscapes.

Here are the best luxury hotels to stay in to explore the many marvels of Sri Lanka’s vast interior. And if you’re looking for beachside accommodations, check out the best boutique hotels along Sri Lanka’s southern coast .

Uga Ulagalla

Effusively elegant and refined, Uga Ulagalla is the flagship property of Uga Escapes, a locally owned, sustainable luxury hospitality brand that boasts six hotels throughout the country. Opened in 2010, this sumptuous estate captures the country’s Dutch colonial flair: the hotel has 25 villas with pools dotted throughout the vast property with tasteful furnishings like chaise lounges, four-poster beds and stand-alone bathtubs. You can pick between views of the green paddy field, jungle fauna or tranquil lakes.

An expansive estate that sits on 58 acres, Sri Lanka's lush vegetation is on your doorstep, whether you opt to go kayaking or horseback riding in lakes with flowering lily pads or cycling through to nearby villages. The property can also arrange guided tours of cultural attractions including the Sacred City of Anuradphaura, with its many Buddhist temples and stupas, and Mihintale, an important pilgrimage site set upon three peaks. If you’re after the local fauna, book a scenic game drive that takes you off-the-beaten-path to Nachchaduwa Lake, a popular spot that attracts a myriad of birds, buffalos and elephants.

Uga Ulagalla’s 150-year-old mansion is the focal point of the property where you can enjoy your breakfast al fresco on the upper deck of Liyawela restaurant or sunbathe at the main swimming pool. In the evening, don’t miss the property’s signature “Kamatha” dining experience which serves an endless array of traditional Sri Lankan curries in a typical village home surrounded by paddy fields. A veritable epicurean feast, the spread features seasonal vegetables from the property's organic farm — like luffa gourd and starfruit — along with lake fish and free-range meats sourced from local farmers. A multi sensory experience for the palate.

Apple s iPhone 16 Pro Design Revealed In New Leak

Charlotte shooting 4 officers killed while serving warrant, wwe raw results winners and grades after wwe draft night 2.

Water Garden Sigiriya

Just a short drive from Sigiriya, a 5 th -century AD royal palace located on top of a towering rock that dominates the skyline, Water Garden Sigiriya is an ideal base to visit Sri Lanka’s leading attraction. Set upon dozens of shimmering ponds and streams, the resort’s landscaping pays homage to the landscape designs atop Sigiriya’s citadel where Prince Kashyapa implemented advanced water irrigation techniques 2,000 years ago.

Water Garden Sigiriya is home to abundant wildlife, including 200 peacocks that roam freely around 30 spacious villas set upon the manicured property. Deluxe Villas are partially submerged on a natural lake, while Superior Deluxe Villas offer exclusive views of Sigiriya and boast spacious sundecks with private pools. At the center of the property, Twin Level Bar overlooks Water Garden Sigiriya's scenic outdoor swimming pool which is particularly enticing at sunset. Each evening, the Main Restaurant provides a curated tasting menu for guests alongside an à la carte menu with an extensive range of local and international dishes.

From Sigiriya, culture enthusiasts can easily reach the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa in 1-hour and the incredible painted Cave Temples of Dambulla in 30-minutes, two other must-see sites in Sri Lanka's cultural triangle. Nature lovers can enjoy outdoor activities which include archery, nature walks and a jeep safari of nearby Minneriya National Park, which boasts the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants.

98 Acres Resort & Spa

What began as a thriving tea business has expanded into 98 Acres Resort & Spa : a fully-fledged hospitality and lifestyle brand. Owned by the same family that founded Halpé Tea, one of the largest tea factories in Sri Lanka, 98 Acres has 36 woodsy chalets suspended in the hillside. Designed with natural materials for an upscale, rustic feel, accommodations feature hard-wood floors, rubble stone bathrooms and furniture made with upcycled railway sleepers. The Royal Deluxe room features a roll-out bed where you can enjoy breakfast in bed while admiring views of Little Adam's Peak, while the Grand Executive Suites feature private plunge pools.

Set along the hiking route to Little Adam’s Peak, visible in the distance from your private balcony, 98 Acres offers a luxurious nature immersion in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. The colorful town of Ella, lined with bohemian cafes and small boutiques, is just a short tuk tuk ride away, and it’s a leisurely walk to the famous Nine Arches Bridge from here. Restaurant 98, spread out within a large hut at the top of the resort, serves a buffet breakfast and daily-changing set menu for lunch and dinner each day. Offering international and local dishes, the cuisine is a stand-out and will make it difficult to leave the property.

In addition to the 98 Acres fabulous spa and resort activities, which include bird watching and private cooking classes, guests can enjoy a more social atmosphere at the Ravana Pool Club or go zip-lining on the Flying Ravana Adventure through the hills. And don’t miss exploring the Halpé Tea plantation on a factory tour, which offers a unique insight into Sri Lanka’s longstanding tea heritage.

Camellia Hills

A stylish bungalow overlooking the picturesque Castlereagh Reservoir, Camellia Hills is an intimate retreat from the world surrounded by undulating tea plantations. Part of the Teardrop Hotels collection, it is one of the group’s seven boutique properties around Sri Lanka which promise exceptional service and amenities in unique locations throughout the island.

With only five bedrooms, the property operates more like a home than a hotel, and the staff’s warm and relaxed demeanor will make you feel like you’re visiting your chic friend’s countryside estate. At Camellia Hills, everything is highly personalized, and no request is too small. You can enjoy farm-to-table fresh meals at any time of the day, borrow books from the bungalow’s vast collection and enjoy leisurely strolls in the naturally manicured estate that surrounds you.

The home’s inviting open-air plan, with vaulted living room and outdoor patio, will surely coax you away from the comforts of your bedroom. Spend afternoons luxuriating by the infinity pool, sipping cocktails on the terrace or relaxing with a pot of tea by the fireplace. Despite its small size, Camellia Hills has designed an enticing menu with an array of creative dishes, from seafood pumpkin gnocchi and hoisin glazed pork skewers to wok-fried rice noodles with tamarind tofu. Dishes are made expressly for guests, guaranteeing fresh, seasonal flavors at every meal.

An ideal escape for couples or families eager to spend a few days unwinding between sightseeing, you can enjoy a number of curated activities in the area. Explore Castelreagh’s bright turquoise hues up close with an excursion on a fisherman’s canoe or enjoy picnics in scenic locations including nearby waterfalls and secret viewpoints in the tea plantation. Or experience a once-in-a-lifetime hike up to Adam’s Peak, a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus and Christians.

A petite boutique hotel in the fishing village of Negombo, Uga Riva is the newest member of Uga Escapes just opened last November 2024. Set within a 180-year-old manor house — the former residence of the prominent Colombo Chetty family — this 6th-generation family home has welcomed many notable figures throughout the decades. In 1927, Mahatma Gandhi visited the property during his visit to Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) and planted a tree in the garden.

This 5-acre coconut plantation is the perfect place to kick-off, or end your trip, through Sri Lanka thanks to its proximity to the airport. Colombo International Airport is just 30-minute drive away, making Negombo a more strategic base compared to Colombo. But when you step inside, you’ll realize this is much more than a traditional “airport” hotel.

With only seven bedrooms and exclusive access for guests, this tranquil resort offers privacy and seclusion from the world. The central swimming pool is a peaceful place to unwind after enjoying a meal at Uga Riva’s restaurant, which serves Sri Lankan and international specialties with a spin. Beneath the verandas, period furnishings are juxtaposed with contemporary illustrations and watercolors by Sri Lankan artists.

No matter what time you arrive, the staff will be on hand to welcome you with a warm smile and a refreshing drink. For an airport that receives visitors at all hours of the day and night, this kind of service is priceless. Uga Riva is a great place to rest, recharge and continue your onwards journey.

See More : The Best Hotels Along Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions