The perks of travel - Experiences that I gain represent my greatest perks. In a sense, I was born to travel so I'm doing what I love. I did write an article which sums it up, "Do we travel free"? http://www.noralyn.com/newsletter/bits1.lasso
Now, as a published writer, sometimes I'm hosted. However, I don't believe in free rides. If someone has been generous enough to host me, I feel I owe them a story. The only exception is a negative experience (Usually, I'll let my contact know why I'm not writing about the experience). It is my personal preference to focus on the good and great. Frequently it takes me longer to get the story written than I'd like, but I still do get it written.
Many times I'll use e-savers, or good airline fares, to cover my transportation. Unfortunately, not all hosts are able to provide air. But, a good story will help you in the future.
If I am not able to secure an assignment or get the article placed in print media, I get a version of it posted in http://www.global-writes.com/ , on one of the web outlets (many are available that pay per click), or my web newsletter. Then, I send the host the url or date of publication for print. Sometimes, it takes a year before it's in print. When it is published, I send a clip. Letting the host know it is availabile is important. This all builds credibility and results in more invitations. I also send a link to http://www.ifwtwa.org/ to add to their clip file with my name, date of publication and publication name.
What perks do you get when you travel?
Are you good about telling the story?
Do you keep your host updated on the story?
Please add your comments or questions.
By Maralyn D. Hill
http://www.noralyn.com/
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Maralyn, I do some writing myself so I know it's hard to get paid for it.
ReplyDeleteDo you make arrangements to be compensated in advance of your trip? Or do you introduce yourself at arrival, show some credentials and then take what you can get?
As a publicist representing historic inns in desirable destinations that writers find alluring (St. Augustine Fl and Spring Lake NJ), I enjoy giving professional credentialed journalists the 'best of the best' experience when they visit. With mutual goals established from the moment I hear from each writer that includes their story theme, media outlet(s) and time availability, it's my pleasure to open whatever doors they need in order to create a well crafted story. Travel/culinary/lifestyle writing is a relationship between the journalist and the person or people that make the destination come to life. The perks are obvious to both parties. And it's my pleasure to give my journalist visitors a rousing 'standing ovation' and thank you when their story is published!
ReplyDeleteleighc, I'd like to know what you mean by "professional credentialed journalists." What do you require from a journalist to be considered for your "'best of the best' experience"?
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