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1. 

   Stuart
   Member

   Just registered, and thought I'd say hello; I'm 37, based in the UK and have been into travel for a while through my work in the aviation industry. I found this site recently and it's the first one I've come across that has a community giving practical advice, so I'm looking forward to contributing.

   I'm new to travel writing (and writing in general) and after a couple of online courses last year I've had some minor publishing success, and have started a blog which is supposed to be travel writing, but here's the thing: in trying to establish my style and voice, the blog seems to have evolved into something a bit satirical and non-conformist, and is more about the idea and philosophy of travel than actual travel (with some comment on the travel industry too). I wonder if there's a place for that sort of thing in travel journalism. Feel free to check out my blog, any comments are welcome.

   As to a future in writing for me, I'm not sure. I haven't identified the proper way forward yet, as there's just so much conflicting info out there (do it this way! No, do it that way! No, do this! etc...).

   Posted 7 months ago #
2. 

   Rebecca Sebek
   Moderator

   Welcome Stewart! The UK is my favorite destination spot.

   Your blog sounds interesting and could work. Many people like the "idea of travel," but are afraid to travel. They're too hung up on their fears and insecurities. You could be the one to address "why" people talk about travel, but never go anywhere!

   Posted 7 months ago #
3. 

   Trisha Miller
   Administrator

   Hi Stuart

   I read a little bit of your blog, and you're clearly a talented writer. I like your style and voice.

   But I'm left wondering, who exactly is your [intended] audience? Travel industry insiders? Hmmmm.... not enough insider news and gossip. The general traveling public? Nope, too much industry jargon they won't understand. Frankly it's not clear to me from your blog just whom it is you're writing for, other than yourself.

   Another question that comes to mind is, what is your goal with the site? I understand that you haven't identified a proper way forward yet, but where do you want to take it? What would YOU like it to become?

   There is no right or wrong path, but there are some steps that can make your efforts easier or more difficult, so you'd be wise to learn as much as you can about SEO, brand building, and attracting readers. You've got the writing part down.

   In your favor, the aviation industry is a popular topic amongst travelers these days - people are angry about it. There are a number of sites/blogs that offer content about the travel industry, or the idea, philosophy or act of traveling, though few with a satirical, non-conformist bent, so I think there is definitely a place for your style of writing in this particular (narrow) genre.

   If you enjoy writing about the airline industry, do so and be a stellar satirist, and don't be afraid to stir up some controversy. If you take this route, don't get off track (e.g your post about the virtual london pub software).

   One last suggestion - I find the white text on a dark background difficult to read, and from what I hear, a lot of others do also. Sure it looks cool - but you'll attract more readers if they can actually read your writing. I only advise dark backgrounds for photography sites with very little text.

   I'm very interested in where you take this......do stay in touch!

   Posted 7 months ago #
4. 

   Stuart
   Member

   Thanks for the constructive comments. I think writing about aviation is the way forward, as it's the subject I know the most about. I've denied that by trying to write about other subjects (just to see if I can), and in the process diluting the blog.

   Frankly it's not clear to me from your blog just whom it is you're writing for, other than yourself.

   I think subconciously I only ever did write it for myself as a form of creative expression and as a means to cultivate a literary style; that's why I've not actively sought publicity for it yet. Anyway, I'm off to do some serious editing and revising. Back soon!

   [maybe starting a blog is like having a child and watching it grow up, knowing and fearing that you're not in full control of it at all times. All you can do is guide it, knowing there's always the possibility you might make a mess of it...]

   Posted 7 months ago #
5. 

   Trisha Miller
   Administrator

   Thanks for posting back, and for being open to suggestions.

   I really do think that once you find your focus, it will start to really take off for you. When you maintain a clear path, the way forward always seems easier.

   Good luck, and do post back from time to time to update us on your progress - I'm really interested!

   Posted 7 months ago #

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