Articles for travel magazines, hotel and spa periodicals, and other printed publications are typically written freelance travel writers. He or she might also contribute to travel guides and blogs on the internet. Writers frequently maintain their own blogs in order to personalize their travel writing and provide readers with insider information. Freelance writers are typically self-employed and work on a contract basis.
The average freelance travel writer may visit well-known tourist destinations or those that are off the beaten path, depending on his or her assignments and travel interests. Exploring different geographic areas and reviewing businesses in those areas, such as hotels and restaurants, are common activities. From his or her own personal perspective, a writer may also provide information about museums and other tourist attractions. Travel essayists, on the other hand, tend to focus more on writing personal memoirs and other creative pieces than freelance travel writers.
Rather than simple reviews of tourist attractions, many travelers today seek practical advice. These readers are usually looking for the best travel deals and saving money once they arrive at their destinations. By sharing personal experiences, freelance travel writers can often provide them with useful information.
A freelance travel writer may specialize in a niche that other travelers are interested in, such as luxury travel. Adventure travel and eco-tourism are two more examples of popular niche interests. Some travel writers specialize in sports like golf or skiing, as well as reviews of related vacation spots. Other journalists may establish themselves as experts in a particular geographic area, such as Las Vegas or Europe.
A freelance travel writer, like many other professional writers, usually has a communications or journalism degree. However, these skills aren’t required to succeed as a freelance travel writer, especially if you have a strong writing background and extensive travel experience. Travel writers who travel to different countries on a regular basis may benefit from learning a second language. In general, having some basic photography experience is beneficial, as many travel publications require photos as part of an article submission.
There are several options available to travel writers who want to pursue continuing education opportunities to improve their writing skills. Many traditional colleges and online programs, for example, offer courses in general writing and travel journalism. A freelance travel writer’s working conditions can vary. Because most freelance writers are self-employed, they typically work from home. They are usually solely responsible for fulfilling their business obligations, such as sending invoices to clients for payment. Long periods of time away from home are common in travel writing, requiring the reporter to be flexible in his or her professional routine.