Halfway through 2018, I made a strategic decision to take a break from writing parenting articles for a few years. I’m at that in-between stage, where my kids are adults (at least most days!) and I don’t have any grandchildren yet. Once I finish up two current projects, the world is my oyster. So-what to write about next?

Like many people, I love traveling. And, obviously I love writing! Competition is stiff in the travel writing field. There are a lot of things to think about before venturing in that direction.

Following are some of the questions I’m asking myself before making any sudden moves:

• What are my strengths as a traveler? Any weaknesses?
• Which of my personality traits can I take advantage of to find my niche in travel writing?
• How much of my time and money do I want to allocate toward traveling? Toward travel writing?
• Do I want to travel with others? Or alone?
• What topics or locations have been written about excessively that I might want to bypass? Any that haven’t been covered much that I’m interested in?
• Would I rather write blog posts, articles, or a book about travel?

When I launched my freelance writing career in December 2007, I came up with a list of what I would need for my home office. What are some things I might need as a travel writer?

• A travel journal
• Discount cards for attractions (i.e. AAA or AARP)
• Hotel memberships
• A way to earn airline miles
• Should I invest in a new work camera (the old one is on the way out) or just try to use my phone?
• Any new technology that could make the job easier
• The 2019 Writers Market, subscriptions to travel magazines, and other research materials to give me a sense of whom to pitch to

I have a few questions for my colleagues and readers too!

• What are some of your favorite travel blogs or books?
• What types of travel articles have you found most helpful when planning a trip in the past?
• Is there an aspect of travel that you feel should be written about more? Something you haven’t read, but would like to?
• What’s your favorite way to travel (solo, as a couple or family, with an organized group)?

Trying something new is always simultaneously terrifying and thrilling. But I think I’m up to the challenge!