The Travel Writer’s Way

Book reviews

The Travel Writer’s Way – Turn Your Travels Into Stories by Jonathan Lorie

William Dalrymple has reviewed the above book as  “A unique and completely invaluable guide to the dark arts of travel writing”   I am not the expert on travel writing that Dalrymple is but I agree. This book is priceless.

Lorie has been a travel writer for over twenty years so the information provided within these pages from  both himself and a group of assorted travel writing peers can be used not only by those just starting out, but those who have been crafting stories for many years and  want a fresh way to look at them. 

Topics written are how to hook the reader in, being honest in reviews of places or accommodation, and to take that leap in travel experiences which can result in an increased richness of adventure.   

As mentioned, he uses 40 other assorted “travel experts in their own fields” to  add depth to the explanation he gives. e.g .In “ Written Blogs”, he uses Nomadic Matt to share the importance of finding your own niche and deepening it so you become the “go to person” for that  particular area. “Writing articles”, finds Isabel Choat, an online travel editor, setting out clearly what she wants from an article. She wants to know what would make people dream of going there.

This book is priceless. A must read for those who are travel writers  to expand their knowledge, for those who may be just thinking about starting out or individuals just wanting to document their adventure 

THE END OF A VERY SPECIAL ERA

New Zealand

Because of my love of hiking, I wanted to share this enjoyment with each of my four grandchildren.  So as each one turned twelve, taking them on one of the great walks was a real joy.  Spending six days alone with them was so precious. It allowed me to get to know them as individuals. Hopefully it is an experience they will never forget.  The challenge of packs on their backs. The camaraderie in the huts. The breath taking scenery. The delightful taste of dry pita bread, cheese, salami and pickle washed down with warm water from a water bottle which had been in a pack too long. Yum!!!! Yum (I don’t think so). 

Samuel was the first. We completed the Milford track A beautiful 55 kms track with majestic mountains being reflected back in the clear mirror like lakes. There were others family members with us so he had quite a lot of company however he still had to carry all his own clothes etc.  When reaching each hut, other hikers would include him in card games which was  fun for him and gave him a variety of companionship.