How to Write Travel Books

People intending to take a vacation like to know about the places they want to visit. That's why travel books are so popular. Writing travel books cannot only be financially rewarding for a writer, but it can be full of adventure. To write an authoritative travel book, one will need to travel and experience the places one wants to write about. Travel writing can often seem like work and vacation at the same time. Here are some tips to turn one's travels into useful travel books.

Instructions

1

Plan to write wherever you go. Every place you visit is a potential book. Make copious notes about shopping, dining and other things visitors can do. Note the overall weather patterns of the location you're visiting, notes about the landscape and notes about the locals.

2

To add color and interest to the location, write a first chapter that details the significant history of the place your book is about. A book about Montana, for instance, would almost certainly reference the "Battle of the Little Bighorn," known also as Custer's Last Stand.

3

Include a chapter about the trip getting to the location. The book will primarily be about one location--somewhere people might want to visit, or might not think to visit if not for your book. The focus should be about that destination, but getting there is half the fun. Your job as a writer is to show that to your readers.

4

Write a chapter on the dining. Try to find out-of-the way places that visitors to the location might not be able to find on their own. Find out the locals' favorite places to eat and be sure to look for places that visitors will be able to eat on a budget. Suggest restaurants you feel provide good service and value, as well as atmosphere.

5

Include a chapter that features entertainment for adults, children and families. Be sure to not only write about the expected attractions but look for things to do off the beaten path in a variety of price ranges.

6

Take a camera and be sure to get plenty of photographs. Photographs will help entice readers to visit the destinations you write about.

7

Detail lodging options available. Include a list of hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts to fit a variety of budgets. Visit and rate as many of these locations as you can. Include a reference section in the back of the book that lists complete contact information, as well as information regarding other important travel-related information. This might include local AA meetings for travelers in recovery, emergency numbers, gas stations and other facilities of interest.

8

Write in a relaxed, laid back fashion. Make it fun by including plenty of short, personal anecdotes about your visit. Don't write a travel brochure; your travel books should be enticing with lots of local color and plenty of personal experience.