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by Dave Prine

Six ways to get the plane ticket you want

May 20, 2009 in Flights

Many travelers these days want flexibility in their itinerary — they don’t want to commit to a fixed plan four months before a trip. It takes a bit more work, but it’s possible to create a fantastic trip while keeping your mind and your options open.

I’ve just returned from a trip to the Middle East, and I had an unbelievable time. But booking the trip was a little tricky, since my plans changed right before I bought my ticket. I had intended to spend five days in Morocco with my friend Alma, then explore the country for a further five days on my own. But Morocco fell through, and I found myself looking for flights to Istanbul instead.

I was still spending five days with Alma, but I decided to leave Turkey after that (I’d been there before). I looked for other places to visit for the remainder of my trip, and I settled on Cairo and Dubai, and with a little creativity I was able to come up with an itinerary that worked well for me. Here are a few of the ways I managed to pull that off.

Shop around

aya-sofiaWhile searching for a decent flight to Istanbul, I used three websites at once (Travelocity, Orbitz, and Kayak.com), entering different dates and routes. Not only did prices vary among the three sites (even for the same flight), but there were routes one site would offer that the others didn’t. But don’t limit yourself to websites. If you have the time, talk to a travel agent. Or several.

Try “nesting” tickets

Instead of incorporating every stop into one ticket purchase, I ended up buying two tickets: a roundtrip ticket from LA to Istanbul, and then a multi-flight ticket from Istanbul to Cairo, then to Dubai, then back to Istanbul. This way, I covered the first and last legs of the trip (the more expensive ticket and also the only certain part of the trip at that time) as early as possible to get a decent price, and then I went back for the shorter legs of the trip when I had a better idea of my plans and options.

But don’t be afraid to consider a multi-destination ticket

The three sites I listed above let you enter multiple destinations and dates. After a little tweaking, I was able to come up with an itinerary that allowed me to visit Cairo and Dubai, which worked better for me than if I had simply purchased a round-trip ticket to one location.

Spread the word

It helps to keep your options open.

Dubai became a destination simply because mentioned to a friend I was thinking of going there. Only then did I discover she was planning to be in Dubai during that time, making Dubai an even more desirable destination for me. I plugged that into the equation and eventually found a ticket that worked.

Watch for interesting connections

Istanbul had many direct flights to Dubai, but I noticed there were a lot of connections through Cairo (as well as several other cities). I looked into a stopover and changed a few travel dates, and I was able to spend two days in Cairo.

Be flexible

With Istanbul the only definite part of the trip at first, I looked at several other places to go for the days I was floating. There were numerous affordable flights from Istanbul to Romania, Warsaw, Athens, and several other locales. If I didn’t have to get a visa in advance, I would’ve chosen a flight to India and spent two days in Mumbai. It helps to keep your options open!

So, don’t despair if your travel plans fall through at the last minute — with a bit of investigative research, you could have a more interesting vacation than you had originally planned.

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by Dave Prine

Eight ways to save money at amusement parks

April 1, 2009 in Money and Finance

Amusement parks can provide a great outing for friends and family, but it’s easy to forget that they can also be a painfully expensive experience, especially for the budget-conscious. However, a little planning and preparation can help bring down the costs of park visits and make for an enjoyable time without breaking the bank.

Look before leaving home

Before anything, check out the park’s website to find out the dates and hours the park will be open, which dates are blacked out (depending on the type of pass you’re using), and what promotions are offered (deals on annual passes, groups discounts, internet-only offers, etc.). You should also be able to find out parking prices and which areas of the park might not be currently open. This should give you an idea of what your costs will be and if it’s worth it to you and your group to make the trip.

Consider an annual pass

santacruzboardwalkIf you think you might attend a particular park more than once during the year, it might be a wise investment to get the annual/multi-visit pass. In some parks, annual passes are currently the same price as a daily pass. In this case, get the annual pass anyway, since the park often includes coupon books or other extras for the annual membership.

Clip coupons

Amusement park coupons appear everywhere from Sunday newspaper ads to soda cans. Save them as soon as you see them, even if you don’t plan to visit that specific park just yet. It’s better to have the coupons on hand just in case you need them later.

Pack a lunch

Pack a cooler and avoid the overinflated food prices inside the park. Most places won’t allow you to bring in outside food and drinks, but they’ll allow you re-entry (make sure you get your hand stamped if needed) so take advantage of this and have a frugal picnic in the car at a fraction of the price of what’s being charged inside.

Arrive early

Try to arrive before the park officially opens.

Try to arrive before the park officially opens. This way, you’ll get a spot closer to the entrance, and you’ll start the day off as early as possible to avoid the long lines that can develop quickly for some rides (as long as you hit those first). While this won’t necessarily save you money, it will help you get more value for the ticket price.

Shop at the end

Avoid impulse shopping. Give yourself some time to think about whether you’ll really get value from what you think you need to buy right then and there. At the end of the day, almost everything you wanted will still be available (souvenirs, sweets, and even photos taken on various rides). Once you’re ready to head out, choose the items you truly want (and are willing to carry back to the car) and make sure they’re not items you can buy anywhere else easily–and at a lower price.

Car concerns

When traveling in a group, try to take as few vehicles as possible. This will reduce not only fuel costs but parking fees as well. I’d recommend parking in the cheapest lot possible, since it’s often not much farther away than “premium” parking lots, and there’s usually some type of shuttle to bring you to the park anyway. And if you’re considering an annual pass, you might want to consider an annual parking pass as well if they provide a decent discount or benefit.

Be your own shutterbug

taking-a-photo-squareSteer clear of the overpriced photos taken by park staff and bring your own camera. It’s much cheaper to hand your camera to a fellow park patron (or even an employee) to snap a pic of you and your friends, and most places will let you pose with the characters even if you take the photos yourself. Just don’t forget the extra batteries and a large memory card.

Above all, keep in mind that while you can eliminate several of the costs of attending amusement parks, it’s not a crime if you shell out a few bucks here and there for an overpriced treat or memento of your visit. The most important part of your day is that you have fun.

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by Dave Prine

Six Ways to Help Make Flying Easier

February 11, 2009 in Flights

Nowadays, flying with any airline is often met with the same enthusiasm reserved for such special occasions as getting a root canal or figuring out your taxes. With fewer flights and more surcharges, it almost seems worth it to stay home, or at least find another method of transportation. But for those of you who can’t avoid the airports, here are a few quick tips to help get you through the often mundane routine of flying.

Check in early

Whenever possible, check in online the previous day, or as soon as the airline will let you. This will usually give you a better selection of seats and will keep you from ending up in a middle seat or at the back. And if you have a connecting flight, make sure you get a seat close to the front of the previous flight, just in case you have a tight connection. If you can’t check in online, try to get to the airport early to check in on the day of your flight.

Pack light

Easier said than done, to be sure. But nowadays, it’s worth it to pack less, and to pack early. Now that airlines are charging $15 or more for the first bag (and even more for the second), it’s best to figure out what you need well in advance. Why? Because the more time you have to think about it, the more likely you’ll realize what items you can exclude.

Get rid of half of it and bring twice as much money as originally planned.

If you can avoid checking in luggage, you can save a pretty penny (euro, pound, peso, etc.). Consider leaving items behind that you can get once you reach your destination (especially toiletries that can’t be put in your carry-on luggage). Or consider shipping items, such as books (media mail is generally cheaper) or light items like clothing. Don’t just focus on your checked baggage. Make sure you’re aware of what’s in your carry-on. And remember the old adage: Lay everything you want to take on your trip out on the floor. Then get rid of half of it and bring twice as much money as originally planned.

Get a sense of security

Most complaints I hear revolve around the horrible security checkpoints. Rude agents, long lines, and a lack of anywhere to sit while you put your shoes on. While most of these complaints are justified, keep in mind that part of the problem lies with the passengers. Make sure well in advance there are no items in your carry-on luggage that are going to set off alarms or cranky agents such as weapons or large quantities of fluids (you will have done this thoroughly since you didn’t pack at the last minute). Stash any sensor-offending metallic items (cell phones, belts, etc.) in your carry-on bag before you get into line. If you have the space, bring along a pair of easy-on, easy-off slippers or sandals, and tuck your shoes in your bag long before you get in line.

Pack a little extra

missed-flight-plane-in-sky-squareDon’t feel like coughing up a bundle for lousy overpriced airplane or airport food? Pack a little something in your bag. A sandwich, bag of chips, pizza (thin crust in foil will slip in and out of any bag easily), anything. I find this critical when I have a connecting flight because it’s not only a longer trip than flying direct, but it also increases the chances of dealing with delays, missed connections, and cancelled flights. Why be cranky on an empty stomach? And pack an EMPTY water bottle so you can fill up at a fountain after the security checkpoint.

And a little more

Bring a book, mp3 player, videogame, laptop, or whatever you use to entertain yourself. And a pair of headphones brought from home will save you the airline headphone fee. If you plan to sleep, consider earplugs, an eye mask, or a soft pillow. Leave the down comforter at home, unless you’re willing to share with the passenger next to you. And even then, be willing to cuddle.

Smile

Above all, walk in with a good attitude. Say hello, be friendly, and be cooperative. Most airline employees and fellow passengers have been on the giving or receiving end of bad treatment more often than they care to admit. Approach an agent in a foul mood, and they’ll be less likely to be helpful, especially when they don’t need to be. I was once relieved of a $100 charge for luggage in London for checking in two bags simply because I smiled at the agent when I approached him.

Say “thank you” and “please” whenever you can.

Don’t complain unless there’s an issue, and say “thank you” and “please” whenever you can (some would argue that’s good advice in general). A little positive behavior can go a long way, and it can work in your favor when you need something. If nothing else, it could be contagious. I can’t think of a better place for that to happen than an airport.

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by Dave Prine

The Best Part of a Cancelled Flight

January 21, 2009 in Flights

I dread traveling during the Christmas season. There’s always the threat of missing a connection or having a flight cancelled completely, leaving me stranded indefinitely. Add to that anger, frustration, and sheer confusion (not just my own but my fellow travelers’ as well), and travel becomes a thing to be resented and avoided at all costs.

This past holiday season lived up to the dreaded expectations I had pessimistically formed. My flight to LA was delayed ever-so-slightly, and I would have missed my connecting flight had it not also been held up. The 2 p.m. flight was delayed until 4 p.m. (not so bad), then until 7 p.m. (a little problematic) and then finally it fell off the departure screen entirely (expletives aplenty). Mechanical failure was the cause of the delays and eventual demise of the flight, and word-of-mouth spread quickly (as no official announcement was ever broadcast by the airlines). Scores of Chicago-bound passengers were now citizens of LAX until further notice.

To pass the time, I enjoyed a rousing game of “Who Helps Me First?”

To pass the time, I enjoyed a rousing game of “Who Helps Me First?” The rules are simple: stand in the customer service line while calling their 800 number. Whoever I reach first, wins. In this case, the phone rep won by a factor of a thousand. A pittance of a victory as the rescheduled flight was the following day. I still had to wait in line (for well over four hours) to receive my new boarding pass and, if the gods were merciful, a room for the night and maybe, just maybe, a credit for a meal.

In the end, I was stressed, fatigued, hungry, and downright resentful. But it was one of the best bad trips I’ve had in a while.

Why was it so good?

Even the pain of enduring waiting in line for four and a half hours was assuaged by the people around me.

In spite of the tensions and frustrations inherent in a cancelled flight at Christmastime, people still came together. A family of four in the same stranded situation constantly approached me with the latest updates. When I thought I had rebooked myself on an acceptable series of connecting flights, they sought me out with news of a newly-opened direct flight and helped me secure a seat. Another victim pointed me to the correct line for customer service long before she got in line. The owners of the cutest Jack Russell terrier originally filled me in on the cancellation, and had I not heard them talking about it, I would have wasted time waiting at the gate, not knowing my flight had ceased to exist. Moods were tense, but we all knew we were going through the same thing.

Even the pain of enduring waiting in line for four and a half hours was assuaged by the people around me. Slowly I met the folks ahead of and behind me, and conversations slowly started. I met Theresa, a college student on her way to see family in Milwaukee. She gave me a recommendation for a good Lithuanian restaurant outside of Chicago. Eric, another college student, was en-route to Iowa with his grandmother. We would occasionally wave to her as she rested in a seat by a nearby gate. She smiled and waved back, not knowing who her grandson’s new friends were. Bob and Mary, and older couple, joined in our conversations of college experiences. Behind me, Emily from California and Susan traveling from Australia also chimed in. Even Jessie, a woman in her golden years, listened in and took delight in our humor. (Some names have been changed simply due to a forgetful author.)

Shared experiences

After a while, frustrations were vented, jokes were made, and information was shared. We speculated as to what prizes awaited us. Hotel? Food? A sucks-to-be-you attitude? We could only guess. As we got closer to the front of the line, the line moved more and more slowly, creating another source of humor and frustration. Something we could all share. And despite the wait, time still flew by faster than had we all kept to ourselves.

Certainly those affected by weather-related delays didn’t fare as well.

When we reached the front of the line, each of us was awarded with a hotel room for the night, a meager meal voucher, and a credit voucher towards a future flight. (Certainly those affected by weather-related delays didn’t fare as well.) And, of course, a boarding pass for the next day’s flight. As I left to catch the hotel shuttle, I wished those still in line good luck and happy holidays. Some waved and said thank you. A few, despite having an indefinite wait with no guarantee of a flight for days, even smiled.

Most of us ended up on the same shuttle, slap-happy and anxiously awaiting a soft bed, a warm shower, and something to eat. The next day, we all made it to our gate with plenty of time to spare–just in case. Fingers were crossed and prayers were made, and this time the flight left without incident. I was even fortunate enough to sit next to the Jack Russell owners, and despite the chaos, they were light-hearted and upbeat, and I refrained from my usual dozing off to enjoy snippets of conversation with them.

They helped me endure the chaos and keep my sanity.

In the end, no last names were given, no phone numbers or e-mail addresses were swapped. We all went our separate ways once the plane reached the gate. And perhaps that’s how it should be. But despite the brief relationships I formed with these people, I won’t deny that they helped me endure the chaos and keep my sanity. And when I least expected it, they made me enjoy being stuck at an airport.

Most importantly, they helped me remain positive about traveling again this time next year.

So thanks to everyone who went out of their way to share information, stay positive, go on a food run, open up a little, or even just smile at LAX on December 20th, 2008. You made my day.

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by Dave Prine

Travel Writing Tips

December 10, 2008 in Travel writing

Since committing myself publicly to travel writing, I’m constantly being asked, “Is that your real hair?” But more importantly, I’m often asked, “Can you really make a decent living as a travel writer?” The short answer is, yes. It’s not easy, and it’s not always profitable, but it can be done. I recently attended a travel writing class where I picked up a few good tips that can help even the most neophyte writers find a way to make a few dollars with their writing.

Look into magazines first

Magazines generally pay more per word than newspapers or websites.

Writing magazine articles is probably the most flexible way to go. Magazines generally pay more per word than newspapers or websites, and the word count is a fraction of what a book would require. Plus, there are travel magazines for every taste and type of travel. But don’t forget about non-travel magazines that cover some aspect of your trip. Is there a magazine that might want an article about the exotic food you ate or the whitewater rafting expedition you survived during your trip?

Know the market

Once you’ve chosen a magazine (or newspaper, website, etc.), make sure you’ve read a few of the back issues to get an idea of what type of material they publish. Conde Nast most likely won’t publish an article on how to see Paris on $4 a day, and Islands won’t publish an article on riding the Trans-Siberian Express. And Sunset definitely won’t accept short fiction about time-traveling vampire cowboys. (Not that I know from submitting such a story to them–twice…) Get a feel for the tone of the magazine and the audience they cater to.

Here’s a list of 15 Paying Travel Magazines.

Once you find a market you have a story idea for, you need to have more than just a story. You need to–

Have an interesting angle

Editors want more than “How I Spent My Summer Vacation”-esque narratives. Pick an aspect that fits your market and their audience. Is it the food? The people? The scenery? The nightlife? If you’ve read a few issues of your target magazine, you’ll see plenty of examples of how a story can be written.

Get the most mileage from your trip

One of the best ways to make decent money from one trip is to use different aspects of your trip to create articles for different markets. Going to Egypt? Write one story about visiting the Great Pyramids, another on ten ways to save money in Cairo, and a third about Middle Eastern cuisine. The same story can even be reprinted or recycled for different markets (but make sure you only let one market publish it at a time).

Ask first, then write

The editor might ask for a story with a different angle, thus increasing the chance of accepting your article.

Most people want to write about their trip after they come back. If you’re feeling especially productive, why not contact the market(s) you wish to write for and ask them first if they’d be interested in your story? Not only will you be more aware of how to plan your trip, but the publisher might offer to kick in for some of the expenses. Or the editor might ask for a story with a different angle, thus increasing the chance of accepting your article.

You might also–and here’s where the travel writer fantasy begins to meet reality–be able to get a discounted rate for airfare, hotels, etc. (Although check with the publisher first to see if they approve; some publishers forbid freebies and discounts for their writers, others are happy for you to accept.)

Take good notes

Once you get there, take plenty of notes. Collect brochures, menus, flyers; talk to the locals to get good quotes; take pictures to help remember visual details; keep a notebook and pen handy at all times; get names, addresses and phone numbers for everything. Gathering a lot of information will not only supplement your pre-trip research and give you a wealth of details to choose from for your article, it will also provide material to reminisce over when you remember your trip years from now.

For more information on travel writing and the nuts and bolts about the writing process, submitting an article, and knowing your rights, check out two indispensable books:

Editor’s note: We recommend the MatadorU Travel Writing Course and recommend you look into it. We’re consistently impressed with the material we’re seeing from alumni.

Questions? Suggestions? Success stories from this advice? Leave a comment!

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by Dave Prine

5 Resources for Language Self-Study

November 19, 2008 in Languages

I have a problem: I own over 350 books on foreign languages. Will I ever use them all? Ideally, yes. In reality, I’m getting there. Ever so slowly, but I’m getting there. I’ve gone through a number of them already, and I’ve found that there are several resources that I tend to use for several languages.

Here are five of my favorite language-learning methods, each of which I own and/or have used eight or more times.

Pimsleur

I’m a big fan of these all-audio courses. They teach you the basics for conversation and get you speaking right away. But instead of simply repeating

They get you speaking right away

isolated words in a series, the courses include you in actual conversations and make you think a bit about what you should say. After a course (anywhere from 8-30 lessons), I not only have picked up a decent amount of vocabulary, but I can also use it in a normal-paced conversation. The two big disadvantages are that it’s an all-audio course (some do come with very brief reading exercises I get little benefit from) and the courses are pretty pricey, especially for the amount of vocabulary you pick up. But I supplement the audio with other materials to get more out of it, and I download many courses for free through my local library.

Teach Yourself

Quality varies depending on the textbook and the author

Teach Yourself provides the best of both worlds: audio and a course book with roughly a dozen chapters filled with vocabulary, grammar, and exercises. This is about as close to textbook learning as you can get, and the audio is great for getting pronunciation down. Quality varies depending on the language and author, but most that I’ve seen or used provide a good amount of information to start out with if you’re studying on your own. (Note: while the books can generally be purchased separately, I’d recommend getting the audio supplement.)

Lonely Planet Phrasebooks

Burmese or Quechua, anyone?

These pocket-sized books are a polyglot’s dream, if only because of the languages they cover (Burmese or Quechua, anyone?). With over 50 titles, you’re bound to find something in your favorite obscure language. Most editions have been updated with color-coded sections, a basic introduction to the grammar, and a glossary in the back. You might not become fluent from one of these books, but you can pick up a small repertoire of phrases to start with, especially when resources for your chosen language are scarce.

Language/30

The audio helps reinforce what you need to learn

These sets are your basic audio CDs/cassettes with a printed transcription, but I find them indispensable. They provide all the info you’d find in your basic phrasebook, but the audio helps reinforce what you need to learn. Depending on the language, the transcription not only provides the English translation but also the local language (in the local script) and a transliteration to further help with pronunciation. Simple and to the point, this method is great for amassing a number of set phrases in a short amount of time.

Say It In–(Dover)

These phrasebooks are small, basic, and they look like they haven’t been updated in decades, but they hold up on their own quite well.

They cover a wide range of phrases with a simple and easy-to-read transliteration

Dover books are simple phrasebooks with all the basics, divided by category and situation. But they cover a wide range of phrases with a simple and easy-to-read transliteration. Many a time I’ve been armed with only a Dover phrasebook and been able to make myself understood, and while there are numerous phrasebooks on the market, this is one I’ll always use and study from. Plus, they’re incredibly portable and very inexpensive.

While each of these resources can be used individually, I highly recommend you use them in conjunction with others from the list or other materials you can get cheaply (or free!) online or at your local library, at least until native speakers become available for purchase on Ebay.

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by Dave Prine

Hostels? At your age?

October 15, 2008 in Travel

When I was a spry young whippersnapper, I traveled around Europe at a frenetic pace. At an age where sleeping on trains and in train stations was standard practice, spending a night at a hostel was an easily-afforded luxury. Low-key, bare-bones accommodations were just what I needed. But I just turned thirty (well, nine years ago), and my tastes for many things have changed. But one thing that hasn’t is my penchant for staying in hostels when I travel.

After all, they’re still the most affordable option, especially for those on a backpacker’s budget, and they’re always cheaper than a night at the Hilton in any city. While the adage “you get what you pay for” still holds true for the most part, I find that I don’t need a lot when I’m traveling. Why put down a lot of money for a room I won’t be spending much time in anyway?

“One thing that hasn’t changed is my penchant for staying in hostels when I travel.”

I also get to meet a diverse group of people, most of whom are like-minded travelers. Sometimes I meet a lot of people at once. I once shared a room in Dublin with 25 other people. It was a bit daunting at first, but I was exposed to a number of likable characters, including a guitar-wielding raconteur, a South African woman who traipsed around the room in her underwear (talk about exposure) and Jason and Kristen, an American couple who, thirteen years later, are now like family to me. Other hostels have yielded relationships that lasted a few days or even a few hours with little or no commitment, but these encounters provided the chance to make a friend for life. Sites like Travellerspoint cater to this social side through their hostel bookings system, by allowing you to connect with other travellers even before you arrive.

Of course, if I’m not feeling too social, or if I really need privacy, many hostels offer the option of a private room, or at least a smaller shared room (4- to 6-bed rooms are very common). Sometimes, during the slow season, I’ve been lucky and scored a room to myself without paying for the whole thing.

And while the amenities at a hostel might leave something to be desired by the 5-star hotel crowd, I’ve found hostels that offer features that meet my needs. Many hostels provide a free (albeit basic) breakfast (and often other meals), kitchen facilities for making your own meals (often the cheapest way to go when your budget needs a break), storage lockers, linen service, and free wireless internet access. Sure, there’s something to be said about room service, a mini bar, and those little bottles of free shampoo, but I find getting out and about, even if it’s just down to the hostel lobby, is a more satisfying option. A large number of hostels even provide various activities, including city tours, sporting events, social gatherings, pub crawls, and karaoke. Participation is always voluntary, but highly encouraged.

This type of atmosphere is what I like most about hostels. It’s a very casual and laid-back environment where I can come and go as I please (with the slight exception of curfews that some hostels impose). The staff are almost always willing to offer any advice I need about the area and are usually as good as any hotel concierge. And although I occasionally encounter someone who lives up to the young, binge-drinking, wild-partying stereotype, overall my fellow patrons have been a diverse mix of engaging travelers from around the world.

Sure, once in a while, a night or two in a nice hotel fills the need for a king-size bed or my own bathroom. But the boredom will eventually kick in, and I eventually find myself craving the casual, spontaneous, and inexpensive call of the hostel, which I take comfort in knowing I can enjoy at any age.

Editor’s note: you can support the Indie Travel Podcast by booking your hostels through the search function in the sidebar.

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by Dave Prine

Why Be A Travel Writer?

September 10, 2008 in Travel writing

I’ve struggled with the decision for a while, but it’s finally kicked in: I want to be a travel writer. Over the past several years, I’ve taken small steps towards that goal, and now things are starting to come together. But my dreams don’t revolve around traipsing across the planet while my editor/publisher covers every expense, or penning a best-selling Bryson-meets-Cahill-esque tome. Over the years, I’ve learned that those experiences are much too few and far between. The travel writing biz is too competitive and too saturated to count on those dreams coming true. At least for now, anyway. So why not just steer clear of such a volatile field and instead sell my body to science? Well, the answers finally came to me.

Because “travel” is a flexible term

Travel writing can be about almost anything

If you want to write a murder mystery, you’d darn well better include a murder. Your romance novel can’t involve two people who just want to be friends. You can’t be a sports writer without talking about sports, nor a food writer without writing about food. But travel writing can be about almost anything: food, sports, books, architecture, music, avocado-scented massage oil, clothing, animals — you name it. And the best part is that you don’t necessarily need to travel to write about these things. Writing about your hometown can count as travel writing. Who says a story about Gordon, Nebraska, can’t be just as appealing to a Bolivian or a Russian as a story about Bangkok or Brazil?

Because there’s a lot of support

I’ve met several great people in travel writing circles. The Book Passage Travel Writers and Photographers Conference was the best experience I’ve ever had (I went two years in a row), and the faculty is always willing to give advice and answer questions. I’ve met several other travel writers via e-mail, websites, or at various speaking engagements, and all have been willing to let me pick their brains. I still maintain contact with many of these people, and I still go to them for support and feedback. Some sites, like Written Road, offer advice and info on writing opportunities and competitions. MatadorU has forums for students and alumni. Support is a mouse click away.

Because there’s always a need for content

Want to learn more about naked yak taunting? There’s probably a website for that

Although many print travel magazines have vanished, websites have picked up the slack and then some. Want to learn more about naked yak taunting? There’s probably a website for that. (Scary thought, eh?) And if there is, then there’s a need for someone to write about it. There’s always a topic that can be written about from a fresh perspective, and this includes topics that you and I love and know a fair deal about.

Here are 15 Paying Travel Magazines looking for material.

Because it’s a challenge

After writing on-and-off for several years, it recently hit me that I enjoy writing simply for the sake of writing. What I fell in love with was the art of manipulating my words in the best way to hook the reader. Do I always succeed? Doubtful, but even a (gasp!) mediocre piece lets me learn what not to do for the next time. Even if the process is long and agonizing, there’s always a payoff. (Well, for me, anyway. I can’t promise the reader is always as lucky.)

Because dreams can come true

Grab your favorite travel magazine and open it up to any article. Recognize the author? Oh, you do? Well — try another article. Okay, recognize that author? Didn’t think so. That’s someone who’s in print and (most likely) getting paid. Maybe they’re not a big name yet. But it’s a start. I’ve been lucky to have a few small starts: getting published in a book, in a few magazines, and on a few websites. Even getting that far took a lot of time and effort. But the experience was addictive, and I’m hooked.

Because it involves the things I love

That is, travel and writing. ‘Nuff said.

Want to get into travel writing? Then check our travel writing resources or join the MatadorU Travel Writing Course.

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by Dave Prine

Love on the Rails

August 20, 2008 in Austria, France, Germany, Italy

I have a confession to make: I had a tawdry affair in Europe. It started out innocently, but before long it escalated into a full-blown relationship. I spent the better portion of a year getting to know her. I returned to Europe several summers in a row and continued the relationship, often exploiting it to my advantage. After a while, we lost touch when I stopped traveling. But last year, I returned and was reunited with my true love: the European rail system.

Granted, it was a relationship that was temporary at best. She would never move back to the States with me; she was already seeing thousands of other people; and I was scared to think of what our kids would look like. (Besides, I don’t even know if she really was a “she.” Yikes! It’s like The Crying Game of transportation.)

But I fell in love just the same. Compared to the US, train travel in Europe was more affordable and accessible. Of course, Europe is just plain smaller than the US. (In other words, size does matter.) And here in the US, a train ticket can cost as much as a plane ticket and the ride can take days. (And don’t try to defend US trains by saying they have a nice personality. I don’t buy it.)

I started out buying individual tickets, but I was quick to learn about the traveler’s best friend, the Eurail Pass. I coveted one but was rewarded with something better: the Interail Pass. Not only was it cheaper than Eurail, but it covered more territory. Since it was available only to those who lived in Europe for six months or longer, I was able to obtain one halfway through my study-abroad stint.

With this pass came ultimate flexibility. I could jump on trains 30 seconds before they left the station. Plans could change at a moment’s notice. If I stayed in a place longer than originally planned, I didn’t have to change reservations, exchange tickets, or pay a supplement. And while I was never guaranteed a seat on any given train (unless I made a reservation for a nominal fee), I was always allowed on board. Of course, the Eurail Pass would provide me with the same luxuries on subsequent visits to the Continent.

Once while passing through Austria, I had agreed to meet friends in Athens. I was told the trip took 18 hours by train from Vienna. A long route indeed, but I was willing to make the journey. But when I arrived at the station, I learned that the calculation had been wrong. Instead, the journey took a day and 18 hours. Reluctant to spend nearly two days on that route, I asked to be put on a train to Italy. Twenty minutes later, I was en route to Rome and arrived the next morning.

On more than one occasion, I used trains as a poor man’s hotel. The station in Stuttgart, Germany, is far from the most comfortable place to sleep, but there are several cities a night-train ride away. When I arrived there unannounced and couldn’t reach anyone to stay with, I was forced to either find lodging I couldn’t afford or hop a train. By midnight, my unanswered calls led to an overnight trip to Budapest and, more urgently, a place to sleep.

Of course, I didn’t need to live like a vagabond to enjoy the train. Short trips were just as gratifying for the traveler’s spirit. The speed and precision of the French TGV and German ICE trains provided me with great scenery while getting me across large distances with nigh-disturbing punctuality. And twice during planned trips, I had rail passes with one day left to use. Rather than waste them, I used one for a day trip to Zurich for lunch, the other for a day trip to Luxembourg for dinner. Barely a taste of the cuisine and culture of each country, but enough to whet my appetite for the next time around.

Sure, I try to see others. I’ve spent time driving my car great distances. But she’s high-maintenance, expensive and bad for the environment. I’ve have a few dates with Greyhound, but they leave me unfulfilled. So until my next big trip, I’ll carry a torch for European train travel and dream of the day we meet again. And when I do, I’ll see if she has a friend for you.

If you’re wanting some European cities to visit, these make a great starting place.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Love rail like Dave? Why don’t you add something to the new site Eurail Stories; it’s sparkling new and dedicated to Eurail travel.

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Avatar of Dave Prine

by Dave Prine

Keeping the Dream (and the Traveling) Alive

July 16, 2008 in Preparing to Travel

Nowadays, it seems that traveling is getting harder and harder. Fuel costs are at an all-time high, making travel by air or car prohibitive. The U.S. dollar is taking a beating from the euro and the pound. (Good for you Europeans, bad for us Americans.) And as we get older, more responsibility is thrown at us, resulting in less free time and even less flexibility. In the end, the real world can hinder the best-laid travel plans.

But there are some people who find ways to travel continuously, often reporting from the road with tales of African elephant encounters or wild beach parties in Goa. These people manage to disappear for a month (or six) without a second thought, surfacing in the most enviable locales with just enough time to dash off a quick e-mail saying how much fun they’re having.

I hate these people.

Which is to say, I’m incredibly jealous of them. When I was younger, I traveled to Europe every summer, satisfying my wanderlust until the next big trip. But that was 140 years ago, and now I’m weighed down with debt, a job with incredible benefits (which becomes increasingly appealing as you get older), and roots in a city I’ve lived in for seven years and counting. Toss in limited vacation time and a depressing economy, and the ability to travel seems harder than ever. The opportunity to backpack around the world seems to be fading from sight. And, as they say, out of sight, out of mind.

Perhaps I should hang up my suitcase, look back at the good times I’ve had, and forget about travel?

Nahhhhhh! I know myself better than that. (Besides, who hangs up suitcases?) But even so, it’s often hard to know when the next big trip will be. But I’ve found many ways to keep my globetrotting experiences and dreams from disappearing.

Read!

Nothing gets me fired up more about my travels than reading about someone else’s. I’ve found inspiration from hordes of travel magazines. Is it the glossy photos? The well-crafted articles? The ads for African safaris and new travel gear? How about “all of the above”? When I need more inspiration, I turn to my travel narratives — books by Bryson, Cahill, and dozens of lesser-known authors (Will Ferguson’s hilarious Hitching Rides With Buddha got me interested in visiting Japan one day) all help remind me that a jillion people make travel happen for them.

Set a goal

Rather than think of travel in general, I’ve found it’s better to pick a specific place to shoot for. Whether it be Thailand in the spring, Sydney in the fall, or Brazil any time of year, the point is to commit to a destination and, if possible, a timeframe. From there, the wheels start turning. Soon you’re looking at airfares, calculating your daily costs, and checking out guidebooks from the library. If you can pinpoint a specific time you want to go, you’ve suddenly found more impetus to start saving and planning.

Be flexible and open to possibility

Of course, sometimes fate intervenes, but that’s not a bad thing. Last year my tentative plans to visit Asia gave way to something more concrete and most unexpected: a wedding in Italy. I accepted the invitation and changed my focus to Europe (which then became a set goal — see previous point). After committing to the trip, I was able to add London, Geneva and three cities in Germany to my itinerary. Now Asia is next on my list, but I’m still keeping my options open.

Find an affordable destination

One reason Asia is so appealing for me is because, along with being popular and exotic, it’s still relatively affordable. And often, affordable equals attainable. And attainable helps keep the dream alive. Of course, you shouldn’t just go somewhere affordable simply for the sake of traveling. Unless, of course, you want to.

Find a buddy

Planning a trip with friends is often the best way to keep you working towards a common goal. Not only will your group encourage and inspire each other, but groups traveling together often save on costs. Even traveling with one other person eliminates the single supplement solo travelers are often penalized with. Besides, what’s a better incentive to make a trip happen than the fear of missing out on all the fun?

Nice work if you can get it

Travel implies vacation, but that need not always be the case. Want to see Tokyo? Why not look for work there? Do you work for a company with offices abroad? Look into a transfer. Even short-term options are often available. (Check out some of Craig and Linda’s previous posts to get an idea of how they feed their wanderlust with short-term jobs full-time.)

Keep a map of the world on your wall

What better reminder of what’s out there waiting for you?

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