The appeal of being a travel writer is similar to the appeal of being a travel agent: the job comes with perks — namely the opportunity to travel, often at rates only available to the trade. So it's not surprising that The Travel Writer’s Handbook is now out in a 7th edition. Written by acclaimed travel writer Jacqueline Butler who is published in many magazines and newspapers, and based on the previous work of Louise Zobel who wrote the first five editions of the handbook, this is a comprehensive guide to resources that travel writers need to know about.
But the book does not promise quick and easy success. Writing is hard work, and coming up with original and creative material requires discipline. Chapter 8 addresses this matter directly: writers need to look for the sights, sounds, colors, and details of places they visit, and they need to record their observations in a disciplined way. Butler challenges the reader with the thought that there is potential for a half dozen articles every place they travel, and she points out dozens of obvious and not-so-obvious ways to explore and experience the local culture of your destination.
An invaluable compendium of resources for the serious travel writer, the 7th edition has been updated for the internet age (including, for example, useful apps for your smart phone). Whether your goal is to become a travel writer, to improve your skills, or learn how to market and sell your prose and actually make money pursuing your passion, The Travel Writer's Handbook is a serious and highly recommended resource.
The Travel Writer's Handbook (search here on Google)
copyright (c) 2012 by David Ourisman LLC. All rights reserved. If you have comments on this column, or questions about booking travel, email me or visit my website. .
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