We had both just received our ITWPA membership badges and were keen to start using them. So, when we “met” each other virtually in the Travel Writer’s Café—and realized we both had an interest in touring New England and wanted a travel buddy—we felt inspired to plan a trip together! The trip was great—but our […]
As a travel writer, when you are friendly and quick to laugh during all the amazing travel experiences that come your way, your whole world opens up with new possibilities. Talking to people, laughing with them, and genuinely enjoying the time you spend with them, is not only pleasant, but also an invaluable skill that […]
“Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets planning.”—Thomas Edison Host, Jody Maberry and Director, Lori Allen talk about the recent Ultimate Photographer’s Workshop in St. Louis, Missouri. Lori shares her thoughts on the event… “This was our 174th live event and I think it may be my favorite one yet!” From the outstanding staff […]
An unknown author once said that “Winners are ordinary people with extraordinary determination.” Max Downham ran his first marathon at age 81. Sally Ride became the first American woman astronaut in space. At the age of 17, Malala Yousafzai was the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. What do these amazing individuals have in […]
My life is a vivid contrast to 10 years ago. I’ve relocated my home, more than doubled my network of friends and business associates, resurrected some long-forgotten hobbies, and I’ve become a travel writer. For years, I tamped down thoughts of writing for income. My self-doubt materialized through constant questions. What if I’m not a […]
Thomas Edison once said, “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” I love this quote. Nothing has ever fallen in my lap. And in life, nothing’s ever been handed to me. Which is okay–I’m used to working hard for what I have. In 2013, when I […]
When I began to receive emails touting everyday people like myself working from the beach with nothing more than a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, it got my attention. I’d been laid off from my regional sales manager position in 2012 , and I was looking for something different. So, after reading countless emails about […]
After three years and nearly 200 published articles, I have learned a thing or two about freelance travel writing. One being the importance of an alternative perspective. The travel writing market is flooded with straightforward destination pieces, so standing out is vital. But how can you make your articles stand out? Wherever you are, make […]
In the nearly two years since attending the 2017 Ultimate Travel Writer’s Workshop, I’ve become more determined than ever to thrive, travel, and experience life to a fuller degree—all while having a better work/life balance. Once I started writing, I realized how much I loved it. So, now, I’m following my dream, and I’m healthier, […]
On this Mother’s Day, I’m reminded that, last year, I missed my son’s kindergarten graduation. I wasn’t doing anything important at work or juggling too many things. I was just scattered and disorganized and it slipped my mind. And what’s worse, I sent Warner to school that day in torn shorts and un-combed hair, so […]
