Freelance Writer FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Contributing to TravelAge West

Who Are We?

TravelAge West (TAW) is a leading travel trade publication dedicated to serving modern, business-savvy travel advisors. Our audience, formerly known as travel agents, is always on the lookout for the latest travel trends, industry insights, destination news, practical selling tips, and firsthand accounts of the newest travel products and experiences.

TAW powers a monthly print publication, an engaging website at TravelAgeWest.com, and hosts popular podcasts like Humans of Travel and Trade Secrets. We also organize the prestigious Western Agents’ Votes of Excellence (WAVE) Awards and the award-winning Future Leaders in Travel Retreat. TAW is owned by Northstar Travel Group.

Who Is TravelAge West’s Audience?

Our primary audience consists of travel advisors who rely on TAW for both entertainment and practical business information. Unlike consumer magazines, our stories are crafted to provide actionable insights that advisors can implement immediately.

Travel advisors are already knowledgeable about most destinations and travel experiences. They turn to us for trustworthy reviews, insights into emerging trends, and information that goes beyond promotional materials. Our content helps them guide their clients’ vacation experiences effectively.

Does TravelAge West Work With Freelance Writers?

While much of our content is produced by in-house editors and writers, we actively collaborate with freelancers. If you’re interested in contributing, it’s crucial to adhere to our guidelines to meet TAW’s quality, style, and tone. Failure to do so may result in requests for edits or rewrites. Initial payment includes one round of edits.

What Type of Story Is TravelAge West Looking For?

We seek four primary types of stories:

1. Career Growth/Professional Development Articles

These articles provide practical advice and tools for travel advisors, many of whom are small business owners. They should answer the question: "What do travel advisors need to know now to improve their business?" We also welcome profiles of exemplary travel advisors and deep dives into trends affecting the advisor community.

Editor’s Tip: This is the type of story we are most interested in and likely to accept.

2. A Deeper Look at the Latest Travel Trends

Trend articles should incorporate data, surveys, and interviews to explore emerging trends in travel. These trends may relate to specific niches or broader economic events.

3. Firsthand Reviews of Cruises, Hotels, and Tours

Reviews should be immersive and narrative-driven, providing key information while telling an engaging story. Travel advisors should feel as if they are experiencing the product alongside you. Incorporate personal anecdotes and sensory details, focusing on what makes the product unique.

Editor’s Tip: First-person reviews are the hardest to get accepted, so make them compelling.

4. City, Region, or Neighborhood Guides

We aim to introduce new destinations and ideas to our readers. Articles should focus on how visitors can best experience a place, whether through comprehensive guides or themed content (e.g., food, culture, history).

How Do I Submit a Pitch?

To submit a pitch, email Ken Shapiro, Editorial Director, at kshapiro@travelagewest.com, and Mindy Poder, Editor-in-Chief, at mpoder@travelagewest.com. Each query should be detailed and sent in a separate email with a clear subject line.

Due to the volume of queries, responses may take time. Once accepted, you’ll receive instructions for the final assignment. We do not accept previously published stories or those that appear elsewhere.

How Does TravelAge West Evaluate Pitches?

TAW editors evaluate pitches based on several factors:

Originality: Is the idea fresh and exploratory?
News Hook: Why is this topic relevant now?
Usefulness: Does the story provide actionable information for travel advisors?
Experience: Does it convey a sense of being in the destination?
Client Fit: Who would benefit from this product or destination?
Photography: Can high-resolution images accompany the story?
Interviews: Are there insights from agents or suppliers included?

My Pitch Has Been Accepted. What Should I Keep in Mind While Writing?

At TAW, we prioritize high-energy writing. Our stories should be as engaging as those in consumer magazines. Before starting, ask yourself: “What’s the best way to tell this story?”

If editorial standards aren’t met, our editors may request revisions. Writers must carefully review guidelines and sample stories to match TAW’s tone and style. All stories should maintain a professional journalistic tone, be fact-checked, and include necessary research and interviews.

What Is Your Policy on AI Use?

While we occasionally use AI for rewriting press releases, we expect freelancers to submit entirely original work. Your writing must reflect your expertise and voice, free from AI influence.

Does TAW Have a Policy About Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?

TAW aims to amplify diverse voices within the travel industry. Freelance writers are encouraged to include interviews with BIPOC sources whenever possible and to avoid using the same sources for multiple stories.

How Do I Submit My Story?

Submit your completed story as a Word document to your assigning editor. Include high-resolution images (300 dpi, 5×7 inches) with appropriate credits and captions. Writers are responsible for obtaining necessary permissions for any materials used.

How and When Will I Get Paid?

Payment is typically processed upon publication. First-time writers must complete several documents promptly to avoid delays.

Web Story (500-800 words): $250
Print Cover Story (1,200-1,600 words): $600

Writers should submit their invoices upon completion. Expect a processing time of about six weeks for first checks.

Thank you for your interest in contributing to TravelAge West! We look forward to working with you.

Note: This page was last updated on Dec. 19, 2024.