Being a Travel Writer is Not as Easy as I Thought. Here’s What I Learned…

Being a Travel Writer is Not as Easy as I Thought. Here’s What I Learned…

If you want to become a writer, you don't need to have a communications degree. All you need are inspiration, will power, and maybe a laptop and net too.

Almost four months ago, I received an invitation to become a full-time writer for this online magazine that I honestly have never heard of. I came across TripZilla through one of its contributors and thought about putting my blog articles out there too to gain a following. I did not expect that I was to become a writer.

Also read: 9 Ways a Day in the Life of a Travel Writer is Similar to Any Other Job

travel writer lessons

I’ve never really called myself a writer even if I already was one, technically. I felt that it wasn’t legitimate enough because I’ve only been one for a few months. I do not want to be self-confessed but I wish to share a few lessons I’ve learned along the way…

The market is everything

Your audience matters because writing something is pointless if you can’t connect to them. The audience is also your market and where business is concerned, market is everything. I learned to write not only for myself but I have to make sure that I get the message across the readers. However, it doesn’t mean that I only have to write about where the money is going. In every material I make, I try to ensure that I still have my identity as a writer or storyteller.

Persuasion level should be 100,000,00++

When it comes to persuading friends to try to visit a place or taste food that I really like, I find myself to be influential enough. Turns out I didn’t have the same charm when I write. I learned that I have yet to improve my persuasion skills, vocabulary and commitment.

Managing social media accounts isn’t as easy as I thought

Facebook and Instagram, you say? Easy! I’ve never been so wrong! There’s so much thought that goes behind every post, every media we put out, every caption that we write. I didn’t know anything about using ads on a Facebook page, or using Instagram as a medium for marketing. This time around, I can’t say I’m an expert but I can definitely take a little pride in saying that I’ve learned a thing or two about the science of social media marketing and statistics.

The world is so big

Nepal

The more you explore the world, the more you realise how vast it really is; that you’re just a tiny speckle compared to everything that’s around you.

“Oh, I didn’t know we had that in the Philippines!”

“I didn’t know we could do that in Asia!”

“I had no idea I can spend only this much in Europe!”

All these things I’ve learned through fellow writers and contributors. All their travel stories are truly priceless to me.

I’m not the only one addicted to the thought of travelling

There are so many other people who are hopeless wanderlusts just like me. I usually never call myself a wanderlust because for others, it’s a term exclusive only to those who really experience a lot of travelling. I beg to disagree. Being a wanderlust could also mean having that thirst, or lust if you will, to go out there and experience the world. And I realised that much like myself, others have the same struggles in money, career, and even relationships relative to travelling.

Also read: 19 Tell-Tale Signs You’re Addicted to Travelling

I don’t have to travel to write about travelling

People get the notion that when you are a “Travel Writer,” which I technically am, you get to travel a “lot.” The truth is, I really don’t. But that doesn’t mean I can’t write about travelling. I value inspiration when I write. When I feel obligated to do it, I tend to be lazy and become unproductive. When I have to write about a place I’ve never been to before, I look for inspiration in other materials that I can find, whether they be photographs or writeups made by others.

Honesty is still the best policy

Yes, I have to persuade readers and yes, market is everything. But what the audience really looks for is authenticity. How true am I from what I write? How can the readers relate to me? What can they get from my articles?

I wasn’t as good at writing as I thought I was

I am a self-confessed grammar freak. I teach English too. But as I worked with editors, I realised that I really have so much room for growth where journalism is concerned. I learned that I can make mistakes and that I have to appreciate feedback. Most importantly, I learned to acknowledge that no matter how good I think I am, others can do a better job at things.

Going with the flow isn’t such a bad thing

Four months ago, I had no idea that I was going to be a writer. Sure, I wrote posts on my blog but I’ve never imagined myself making a living out of it. This opportunity just came knocking on my door one day and I grabbed it without hesitation. It was the most spontaneous career choice I’ve ever made and I never regretted it. Going with the flow isn’t such a bad thing after all.

Teamwork is key

The cliche “No man is an island” isn’t a repeated quote for nothing. Despite the challenges of working from home and communicating with the editorial team virtually, I was able to value the essence of teamwork and harmonious relationships. I am not good at first impressions and small talks, but the team welcomed me with open arms and believed in my talents even when I had my own doubts.

You might be wondering why I wrote this piece. I’m not permanently leaving behind this job. Let’s just say I’m taking time off to get more inspiration! I cannot wait to start my next journey but more importantly, I cannot wait to share my journey to you soon!

Also read: To Quit or Not to Quit Your Job to Travel?

If you want to become a writer, you do not need to have a communications degree. All you need are inspiration and will power, and maybe a laptop and internet too. And if you’re ready to share your travel stories, contribute your pieces here!

About Author

Johanna Ella May Erroba
Johanna Ella May Erroba

Johanna is a free spirit. She channels her energy through music, writing, surfing, and travelling. She expresses all of her musings on Camera and Cheese.

CLICK TO SEE MORE ARTICLES BY Johanna Ella May Erroba



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