2022-23 SATW Foundation Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism Competition
106 Robert Haru Fisher Award for Travel Health/Safety Coverage ( Travel Audio-Podcasts and Guides,Travel Audio-Radio,Travel Magazines,Travel Coverage in General Magazines,Newspapers)Back
Place Name: First Place Contestant Name: The New York Times Entry Title: It Costs $30 and Saves Lives. Why Don’t Many Hotels Install Carbon Monoxide Alarms? Entry Credit: Heather Murphy Judge Comment: Strong shoe-leather reporting replete with harrowing tales of deaths and near deaths allows this piece to drive home the real-life consequences of hotels’ failure to equip rooms with carbon monoxide detectors.
Place Name: Second Place Contestant Name: Margot Bigg Entry Title: Where There’s Smoke: How Wildfire Smoke Is Affecting Life Outdoors Entry Credit: Margot Bigg Judge Comment: Good for REI’s Uncommon Path to recognize the importance of warning its readers about the adverse health effects of wildfire smoke and to equip them with tools to help avoid the danger. From the impact on wildlife, pets and livestock to the health threats for those with underlying conditions or people older than 40, this piece convinces readers that wildfire smoke is dangerous indeed.
Place Name: Third Place Contestant Name: Jared Diamond Entry Title: Travelers With Food Allergies Fight for Early Boarding Entry Credit: Jacob Passy Judge Comment: The Journal dug deep to expose major airlines’ often lax — and sometimes dismissive — approach accommodating passengers with food allergies, often refusing to let them board early to wipe seats and tray tables. The good work in this story put airlines on notice that their policies are under scrutiny.
Place Name: Honorable Mention Contestant Name: Outside Entry Title: Should I Travel to Mexico or Costa Rica Right Now? I’m Concerned About Safety. Entry Credit: Jennifer Murphy Judge Comment: Given the popularity of travel to Mexico and Costa Rica, and the recent uptick in crime in both countries, this is an excellent and timely article that empowers would-be travelers to ensure their visits are as safe as possible. A map of Mexico showing travel advisory levels is a welcome addition.
