I've long lamented the insular nature of the travel media. It's a frustratingly closed-book sort of industry, with lots of cliquey groups and a 'who-you-know' vibe.
There's very little transparency. Editors' email addresses are on business cards kept close to the chests of even the editors themselves, rates are rarely discussed publicly and how anyone makes any money is a mystery to most.
Plus, to outsiders – journalists in other specialisms or just members of the public – there's very little understanding about how the industry actually works. Who pays for the travel? And how do you know what to cover? Can't you just write a nice hotel review?
Now, there's a newsletter that seeks to demystify all of this and more. Launched by me and my excellent colleague – travel writer and founder of South American travel blog Worldly Adventurer – Talking Travel Writing seeks to address all the questions both novice and experienced travel writers have about our industry.
It'll explore complicated topics like ethics, take regular temperature checks on the health of the industry, and offer practical advice and tips for established and aspiring travel writers.
Sign up below, and don't forget to confirm your subscription, otherwise you won't receive the next email.