What's the best way to become a travel writer?

Question

Can anyone suggest any companies to put forward writings to?

Answer 1

Get passionate about a singular subject, become the recognized expert. gretest modern example Rachael Ray, the 30 minute meal person. Read her bio, she wasn't planning to host a day time talk show, she was selling food. she now travels all over the world, and her face is everywhere.

Answer 2

The best way to become a travel writer is to do it freelance because if you do not have any journalistic training or have been extensively published in the past and have no clippings to show then I am afraid no publisher is going to take you on.

The adage in writing is write what you know about and as I assume you know about your own area very well start writing about your town or locality. Once you start to research it is fascinating what you will discover. Try the local library or the archive office first, then the local newspapers.

For a first publication aim for 700 to 1000 words your first draft is never going to be the one you submit, perhaps not the second either, your manuscript has to be refined and polished. Now when you are satisfied with the result ask a very trusted friend to read it and give suggestions, and comments. Take these and again refine your manuscript if possible.

When you are satisfied write a cover letter to the editor of your chosen newspaper or magazine and a 'front sheet' then send it off.

You will need to wait for a few weeks as editors are very busy and receive many unsolicited manuscripts each day. If you have waited say five weeks without an answer phone and ask to speak to the editor or the assistant/sub editor. Be polite and ask if he/she has time to talk if they say no tell them you will call back - the morning is never a good time.

Ask about your manuscript and if it was of interest and do they have plans to publish it? If the ed says no then you are free to pass it on to another publication.

Take some pictures to illustrate your manuscript - editors love pictures and you may get paid more for them.

But to write well you have to read widely, travel magazines and articles in other types of journals and papers. Look at the style and content, examine the pictures, cut out the ones you like and keep for reference. But use and develop your own style.

Buy a few books on how to write for publication, subscribe to a writers magazine there are plenty out there. Buy the Artists and Writers Yearbook.

If you can't find what you need at the local bookshop (ask them they need the business) try Amazon.com, Borders.com, Waterstones.com, Barnes and Noble etc.

Get writing now and good luck

Answer 3

It isn't easy, because the market is pretty full. Going into journalism is the long, but most beneficial route. It will give you some credibility, particularly if you develop a unique and engaging style.
However, if you feel that you write well and in a way that will interest the general reader, you could submit your work to the Lonely Planet guide. If they like it, they'll use it. This might not be exactly what you want out of 'travel writing', but will certainly put you on the right path, looking good on your CV to potential publications that wish to employ (and perhaps fund) your work in the future. Don't expect immediate results. Work at it and gain a good reputation.

Answer 4

Travel.

& write.

And buy a copy of "The Writers Yearbook"...

(then you'll know where to submit your humble scribblings...good luck!)

Answer 5

Don't know!
this is one of these jobs like 'rostrum operator' which it is almost impossible to work out how people get into them.

I guess people just fall into through luck-probably through contacts they have made.