Many people claim to be travel writers, but when put to the test they are “exposed” as “wannabes.” It’s easy to lift information off of other websites, which is fine if you’re citing and giving credit to the author (give a linkback as well). However, if you use the information in your own blog without giving proper credit and links, that is called plagiarism. It is illegal.
What does it mean to be an “authentic” travel writer? It means that you are being true to yourself, writing what you know, and are passionate about your writing. The hardest part about being an authentic writer is accepting when the “flame of passion” goes out and it’s time to walk away from a writing project. If you would like to be an authentic travel writer then accept that it may be time to walk away and move forward onto something else.
Many travel writers apply for freelance travel writing jobs only to be turned down. Why? The most common complaint is that they are inauthentic writers or they blatantly used another writer’s work. This is a mistake that you want to avoid.
When you write posts for your blog, use your own style and voice. Do not try to copy another writer’s style of writing. Your writing will appear fake to your readers. It’s great if you have favorite travel writers and would like to emulate them. The key is not to copy their tone and style. Use them as a guide to improve your writing.
If you’re not a strong travel writer, consider taking a travel writing course or two. Check out our Top 10 Travel Writing Courses and choose the ones that are best for you. Visit the AWAI for information on their travel writing course. While you’re at it, look over our Top 10 Travel Writing Books. It’s good to have a couple of books handy so you can refer to them when you are writing.
Do not copy another travel writer’s website design. Just because everyone uses the “travel theme,” dare to be different. If your niche is green travel, then use an “eco” theme. Your readers will understand that you write about “green travel” By the way, green and “eco” travel is very big these days. It’s a good choice for a travel blog!
Give readers useful information and keep your blogs posts between 400-700 words. If you write longer posts, break them up. Look at it this way, at least you’ll have a post for the next day. You could take the day off and enjoy it!
Remember to proofread your writing and use proper grammar. You do not want to post sloppy work on your blog, especially if you use your blog as a portfolio! The fastest way to lose a travel writing job is to have errors throughout your writing. Take your time when you write and proof your work twice. Use a writing service like White Smoke. For a free trial, click here for Whitesmoke’s free trial.
The bottom line is to be an authentic travel writer. Remember, many people are applying for freelance travel writing jobs. You want to position yourself as the best travel writer for the job. Keep writing and good luck!
Rebecca
Do you have a blog? Are you satisfied with it? If not, let’s us know how we can help. Don’t forget to check out the forum. You may find the answer to your question in it.
This is good advice for establishing a blog. I haven’t started my blog, I know. I’m still deciding what kind of travel writing blog I would like to have.
There aren’t that many helpful travel writing or travel blogs out there. Thanks for this blog. I understand that most people are documenting their travels, but I don’t know. I appreciate travel tips and tricks and learning about the culture of the area versus what a person did or did not eat on their travels.
Thanks for finding the time to write this tutorial.Thanks for sharing .