If you have a thirst for travel, coupled with a thirst for writing, you are half way there to becoming a travel writer. Although travel writing does not give you a million dollar range income, it can give you  a decent income, if you keep pursuing it. The road to becoming a travel writer is not laid out in stone. In other words, there are no specific travel writing schools where you can graduate from and specific degrees that you can obtain, in order to apply for a cushy corporate job. It is the type of job that you have to unearth by yourself. 

The journey to becoming a travel writer gets easier if you have a contact who can help you to get started. Let’s say your college roommate happens to be the editor of a leading travel magazine. Then, that can become a boost for you to getting started. Although such “back door” footings seem rather unfair, unfortunately, this is how the travel writing field works sometimes.

Even if you have no one who can help you to get started, not to worry. All you need is the determination. Even if you don’t have the determination, not to worry. Become determined. Then, you are already half way there to becoming a travel writer.

Online writing is easier to get started with, rather than print publications. Most online publications don’t pay, but if you are just getting started, they offer something more valuable: a byline. Use these online publications as springboards for future travel writing assignments where you are likely to get paid.

If you decide to become a travel writer, here are some tips to consider: If you get an assignment, make sure you meet the deadline. Keep the editor posted of the work that you are doing. Sometimes, being in exotic locations can make you feel totally removed from your daily surroundings. Free alcohol may be an availability, especially if you have been hired to promote a specific hotel industry or cruise ship. While there is nothing wrong in enjoying a drink  or two, don’t let it interfere with your travel writing assignment. Let’s say you have  a hangover and you miss the festival that you were hired to cover in the first place, most likely you are not going to get that assignment again. So, act responsibly when you a re on a travel writing assignment. Sure, you want to have fun, but you have to work get done too. 

Written by Preethi Burkholder, Editor and Founder, Gifted Hands Writing, June 9th, 2009