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!
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