2019-20 SATW Foundation Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition
120 Travel Journalism Websites ( Newspapers,Travel Magazines,Travel Coverage in General Magazines,Travel Audio-Radio,Travel Audio-Podcasts and Guides)Back
Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Travel + Leisure Entry Title: travelandleisure.com Entry Credit: Deanne Kaczerski, Digital Executive Editor Judge Comment: The staff at Travel + Leisure clearly understand how difficult staying home can be for those of us yearning to be out
exploring and experiencing new places and cultures. Its website serves as a hub of information for people looking to get back on the road as COVID-19-related restrictions ease. Providing tips on everything from itineraries based on social distancing to trips for the first-time RV renter, this website is an invaluable resource. The combination of reporting using text, photos and video provides an immersive experience that will prepare readers for what awaits them on their upcoming adventures.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Fathom Entry Title: Fathom Entry Credit: Pavia Rosati, Jeralyn Gerba Judge Comment: The women-led team at Fathom are to be commended for the creativity that shines throughout this entire website. While most in the category featured travel tips and features on each of the seven continents, only Fathom included a section with features on travel to the Moon! That’s not all that’s unique about this site. It connects passionate travelers with the places, products and services that celebrate the reasons we travel: to celebrate the diverse cultures and experiences that connect us. The site’s navigation makes it simple to find recommendations based on personal motivation and interests as well as by location, price and attractions.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Afar Entry Title: AFAR.com Entry Credit: Laura Redman, Julia Cosgrove, Tim Chester, Katherine LaGrave, Ann Shields Judge Comment: Researching a vacation spot should be about more than finding the best hotel or the trendiest restaurant for happy hour, and the staff at AFAR recognizes that. The staff goes to great lengths to teach travelers how to be responsible visitors. Features focus on developing cultural competencies before arrival, with context and history that will lead to a richer experience when on the ground. Other notable articles included columns on traveling with a disability and a rather humorous piece on how to re-create your canceled European summer vacation.
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: Matador Network Entry Title: Matador Network Entry Credit: Laura Reilly, Scott Sporleder, Ross Borden Judge Comment: The Matador Network focuses on niche travel experiences that honor the cultures and identities of both locals and visitors in ways that are all encompassing. The staff carefully considers everything from race to religion to gender or sexual orientation in making recommendations to readers. The use of text, photo and video provide an immersive experience for readers.
