2020-21 SATW Foundation Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition
124 Travel Blogs ( Newspapers,Travel Magazines,Travel Coverage in General Magazines,Travel Audio-Radio,Travel Audio-Podcasts and Guides)Back
Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: Amanda Williams Entry Title: A Dangerous Business Travel Blog Entry Credit: Amanda Williams Judge Comment: With her conversational writing, Amanda Williams connects to a variety of audiences and she’s honest: “while I AM a full-time travel blogger, I am NOT a full-time traveler.” It’s easy to get lost in her writing and stories by clicking from link to link and reading more about her adventures. What comes off as more of a business advice/travel blog finds a great balance of lists (16 steps to planning an awesome trip), history (Michigan's Leelanau peninsula is still home to the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians) and personality. Williams leaves readers looking forward to catching up on more experiences.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Irene S. Levine Entry Title: Getting On Travel Entry Credit: Irene S Levine, Hilary Nangle Judge Comment: Most posts give a concise introduction into who the writer is or how the reader can relate to the post. Then authors get right into the reporting. From dog-friendly trips to international travel to Florida and the Pacific Northwest, this blog has everything for anyone 50-plus looking to travel. Besides sharing details of the experience, writers provide some context and history, too. The end of every post sums up “What’s appealing to the over-50 luxury traveler” with quick bullet points. An interesting read for all, but definitely for the targeted audience.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Lina Stock Entry Title: Divergent Travelers - Adventure Travel Blog Entry Credit: Lina Stock, David Stock Judge Comment: Lina and David Stock are very personable with an upfront introduction into their adventures! “In 2013 we left our corporate jobs, sold everything we owned, and left NW Wisconsin to travel the world.” They are a well-traveled couple who love outdoor adventures. The blog is well-organized by continent, region and country. The interactive map with photos is user-friendly, and the quick history on each location is a great way to introduce the reader to somewhere new. The writers follow up with a personal connection and then a quick “need to know” list. Divergent Travelers is a solid blog with consistent writing to each post and a variety of options for all travelers to find a connection.
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: Janet Steinberg Entry Title: https://www.thetravelauthority.com/travel-blog/ Entry Credit: JANET STEINBERG Judge Comment: Readers can immediately feel a connection with the writer, as history and quotes are laid out in opening paragraphs in a conversational tone. The best reporting is found in the amount of history noted throughout, with a balance of tips, personal experiences and information: Of St. Mark's Square in Venice, Italy, she writes, “It may be the most crowded, (with people and pigeons); the wettest (when the tide rises); or the most expensive ($15 for a cappuccino) living room in the world, but it is by far the most unique.” The blog is user-friendly, and the widely traveled writer can connect with any audience.
