media trip

What are Media FAM Trips? or Press Trips

by Paula McInerney | Dec 12, 2018 | BLOGGING TIPS , DESTINATIONS | 55 comments

First of all, you may wonder What are Media FAM Trips? A Media FAM trip is a Media Familiarization trip, offered to media on behalf of an organization to get the media familiar with their destination and services. They are also called Press Trips. They can be either a group or an individual Media FAM trip.

Why We are Suddenly Embracing Group Media FAM Trips

• 1 Why We are Suddenly Embracing Group Media FAM Trips
• 2 Why did we change our minds?
• 3 How does a Media FAM trip work?
• 4 What is expected of you from a Media FAM trip?
• 5 “So, you are getting another free holiday, aren’t you?”
• 6 “So, you don’t have any fun at all?”
• 7 What are the benefits to of going on Media FAM trip?
• 8 What are the downsides of a Media FAM trip?
• 9.0.1 Please feel free to ask us any questions about Media FAM trips.

It was ironic that in 2016, Gordon and I went on 5 group Media FAM trips, considering that we had been avoiding them up until then. One of our beliefs was that traveling with other people has more con’s than pro’s, and also ironic, that one of our most successful articles on our site is Traveling with Other People – the Dont’s and the Dont’s.

But you know what? We decided to take ourselves out of our comfort zone because the group Media FAM trips we were offered were too compelling to knock back . We still do individual FAM trips for different companies as we have done extensively over the last few years, but we have now seen many benefits to the group Media FAM trip . Since then we have done many Media Fam trips or Press Trips.

Editor note: Updated, December 2018

Why did we change our minds?

Our business model is all about our readers , and bringing you information that will help you discover new and different things. It is also about bringing to the table some left of center experiences, and we have been able to do this particularly with our travels to lesser known areas of Indonesia, like visiting Manado in Northern Sulawesi Indonesia ,  exploring the Spice Islands of Maluku and Raja Ampat (you can read all about Raja Ampat here) which we got to experience on group Media FAM trips.

I have listed some of our Media FAM trips at the bottom of this article. There are some others we have done, but the content belongs to the magazines we freelance for. Since then we have been privileged to work with some amazing companies all over the world. Since then we have worked with Rail Plus doing the Indian Pacific train from one side of Australia to the other. Been to the Hydo Majestic in the Blue Mountains, explored Mayfield Garden, discovered the regional city of Bathurs t, and quite a few more.

How does a Media FAM trip work?

In our case, and in many cases, we were contacted by different companies or organizations who felt our site was a good match for the Media FAM trip, and we felt that what they offered was a good match for our readers.

At times we have proactively sought out the Media FAM trip because we had gotten so much valuable information from the previous ones, and were able to bring new and different content to you guys. These were group trips of about 5-20 very diverse media people, many of whom are now firm friends and colleagues.

What is expected of you from a Media FAM trip?

This is where there is inconsistency. Sometimes a company or organization will spell out what they expect, and at other times you are left on your own to decide what to deliver.

I aim to over-deliver because there is a domino effect in this industry. If you develop a good reputation as a hard worker, who gives an excellent ROI, then you get asked on more individual and group Media FAM trips, and your readers ..that’s you ..love that we are bringing you more tangible ideas, information, and first-hand experiences.

“So, you are getting another free holiday, aren’t you?”

No. There is nothing free about this. We offer an exchange of services with the companies or organizations we work with. A free holiday does not involve nine flights in 7 days , with only an hour of sleep on some nights, and on an easier day, you might get 4 hours.

Organizations who choose to work with us, and more importantly we want to work with, will wring every last bit of blood out of you on Media FAM trip. And we get that . They have often paid a lot of money to show you something, and by hell or high water, and a lot of missed sleep, you are going to work from before dawn to post-dusk. And then ..you need to write up what you have done; start promoting on your social media platforms, edit photos, and videos, and then start all over again the next day. A Media FAM trip is a job. It is not a holiday; it is a business trip. There is nothing free about an exchange of business services. However .. we love it. Contented Traveller is our passion and our business.

“So, you don’t have any fun at all?”

On the contrary, we have had a lot of fun on these Media FAM trips . Just see me as the Dancing Queen on Raja Ampat, where I owned it with a lady from the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia – yes, that is their full title. We have seen amazing places, done amazing things, met some amazing people, and that is why we did 5 of these back to back in 2016.  Yes we love it, and yes, we get to bring you, our readers, more and more information.

What are the benefits to of going on Media FAM trip?

This question has a multifaceted answer.

The first benefit is that we get to bring you the insider information so that you can do this yourself, or a derivative of what we have done because we will not recommend that you do nine flights in 7 days for example. We iron out these issues for you. We can offer new perspectives on destinations and experiences , and I think you know us well enough that we cut to the chase on things.

We get to grow professionally through Media FAM Trips

Not only have we seen some incredible places, eaten some remarkable food, stayed at some amazing hotels, tried different products, but we have also met many people who do things differently than what we do. It is a huge chance to professionally develop yourself as you interact with people from all parts of the Media.

Most of our Media FAM trips have been a mix of food and travel bloggers, vloggers, photographers, Instagram influencers, traditional print journalists, editors, TV reporters, travel agents, and radio DJ’s. The diversity is what makes it so unique, and also very levelling. ‘No one knows everything ‘ is how Cosmo’s Editor, and SnapChat Board Member Joanna Coles  described this information age, at Cannes Lion, 2016 – the  international advertising festival; and you learn how true this is on Media FAM trips.

What are the downsides of a Media FAM trip?

There is a risk that because we are all seeing the same things, stopping to do the same activity, or taking the same photos, that there could be what I call, the cookie cut effect media promotions. But that didn’t and hasn’t happened. Gordon gave me an excellent analogy. We can both be sitting in a café in Paris looking at the same scene. What he sees, and how he interprets that, is totally different to what I see and how I interpret this. This is what also happens on Media FAM trips, and is influenced by our past, our beliefs, and other sociological influences.

Are you going to say anything negative, when it has all been paid for?

Well for a start, people are not stupid. Readers are smart and can cut through the bullshit pretty quickly.

We never ever underestimate our audience. However, the purpose of a Media FAM trip is definitely to generate positive editorial publicity. This is where the world has changed. Rather than paid advertising there is the understanding that audiences value the editorial opinion of the writer, which is us in this instance. Secondly, as previously stated, it is not a free trip. It is an exchange of services. Being honest about our experiences is why we have such a loyal audience and why we do so well in this business.

In saying that, we still will advocate that not all of your travels will go to a predetermined plan, and that you should expect the unexpected, and that in reality, these experiences are the one’s that you will remember.

Media FAM trips offer many benefits to your readers, and to you as a professional. We recommend them.

Please feel free to ask us any questions about Media FAM trips.

A Culinary Immersion Experience on Golden Princess

Staying and Playing at the Haunted QStation Manly

Dining at the Boilerhouse Restaurant, QStation Manly

Press Conference, Qatar Airways.

Why Visit Manado in Northern Sulawesi Indonesia

Visit the Indonesian Spice Islands of Saparua and Ambon

Mt Hay Luxury Retreat in Berry, NSW

The Food and Wine Scene in Berry, NSW

Bite Around Berry – a Walking Food Trail

Raja Ampat – Where Nature PhotoShopped it For You

Exploring Raja Ampat, Indonesia (VIDEO)

Doom Island in West Papua, Indonesia

A Once in a Lifetime Experience on the Indian Pacific Rail Journey

Hydro Majestic Afternoon High Tea

There have been other Media FAM trip, or Press trips that we have done over the years. This is by way of explaining what the purpose of these important interactions. Feel free to ask any questions.

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55 Comments

As a small company who want to invite press to stay in our unique accommodation (we are in sunny Dorset btw), how do we get in contact with writers who might want to visit us?

email me, and i can post it on a number of FB groups, where I know there will a lot of interest. Email is on our website.

As I am just about to embark on my third famil trip ever I couldn’t agree more. I am always stoked when an invite comes my way and thinks work out. Famils are, for me, a fantastic way to get to know a destination in the most intimate way. As a mother of two there are many trips that are off-limits for me. A strenuous journey in a hot country is one of those things I wouldn’t be able to do with my family. On the other hand, I am not willing to go there on my own either. I also fully appreciate the opportunity to meet new people on the road, almost all of them crazy travel-addicts like me. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn more tricks of the trade and to improve one’s writing through exchange and inspiration. The only negative thing about famils is that you are not free to do and to write what you want (I mean, operators need to be featured even though they might not quite fit your blog etc, not in terms of praising them if you don’t agree with their operations). It’s nice to throw in your own independent travel into the travel year too, because this way you can do what you really like at a much slower, more appreciative pace. Lastly, Paula, I totally agree in terms of over-delivering what is expected in terms of outcome. As bloggers, we are sometimes looked down upon by traditional media, and it’s great to be able to outshine them in terms of quality and output and freedom of speech. I always strive to deliver far more than is expected, and I always give 110%. I hope karma will come my way one day. Great post!

We are on the same page Silke. It is always about being totally professional, yet without the constraints of who owns which media outlet, and which political party they happen to be in bed with. This is why ‘bloggers’ are such a threat to mainstream journalism. We can, and do say what we want. without having to toe some party line.

Is there a website or resource that lists upcoming media FAM trips that travel media can apply for?

Not to my knowledge. The offers we receive come out of the blue, though if you are a member of Travel Massive for example, you may just see some advertised.

Hi Paula, I have never been invited for a FAM trip yet (have registered for one in Oct, hoping to hear that I get selected soon). However, I have been invited for an event or hotel stay. Is it OK for new bloggers like us to write to tourism boards or travel partners directly about FAM trips – what’s the best way to approach them? Thanks, Kat

Of course you should write to whomever will help you to give your readers the best information they possibly can get. It is definitely scary when you first start out pitching, but always be honest about what you are trying to achieve and why it is f benefit to your readers, and consequently to them. Good lick, have a read of this article, https://contentedtraveller.com/dont-be-afraid-to-ask-a-question-wkendtravelinspiration/

Nice trip Paula..

I went on my first FAM trip a couple of months back and came out with the same thoughts as you.

Trips are curated so you’ll experience the best of the best but sometimes you tend to miss out on hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path places as compared to traveling there on your own.

It is an enriching experience and I’m definitely up for more FAM trips in the future!

I agree. While you get to see many things, sometimes I would like an afternoon off to find those things that you just do when wandering on your own. We are also receptive to more Media FAM trips.

So envious you got invited to Raja Ampat. I’m invited to an Indo trip, too, but not there. As a diver, it’s in my bucket list. Hopefully next year they’ll invite me there haha

I hope they will too Aleah. Check out Peter McGee who was the diver on our trip, as they hadn’t really catered for the the rest of us to dive. Peter takes the most amazing underwater shots.

I find that on FAM trips I don’t always enjoy everything, but it’s important to remember that what might not be your cup of tea might well be someone else’s. I think it’s important to tell readers what I didn’t like, especially if it didn’t work at my daughter’s age at the time. But I try to add the context of, if you’re interested in XYZ you would probably find it interesting or, if you’re more of XYZ kind of traveler than I am, you’ll enjoy it, or kid older/younger than mine will get more out of it. That’s the context you can only get first hand that helps others make better travel decisions themselves.

Well said. I might not like certain things but Gordon tends to. We got a bit lucky that we are polar opposites, so that when we write we can cover many perspectives. I like the context that you mention.

Hi Paula, a great explanation of what FAM trips are and how you have experienced them! I personally am not a huge fan of group FAM trips as we like to travel independently and plan out our own schedules, but they definitely have some advantages! I actually met my husband on a small group press trip:) ~ Jessica

That’s lovely that you met your husband. We were surprised that we enjoyed the group trips so much, and got so much out of it.

Great post, Paula. Thank you! I’ve considered FAMs but haven’t pursued any mainly because of the responsibilities that come with them. I agree they’re worth doing, especially if it’s a part of your business model.

I think they have definitely added a richness to our business, so I guess we are fans.

Hello Paula, like to read your take on this. I have not done a FAM trip but I have been invited to cover events and review hotels / restaurants / products. I can attest it is a lot of work and requires hours dedicated hour (after you are done with the experiential part). Quality content creation takes effort. I agree you should aim to over deliver. You set a positive tone for you and for others in the industry.

Thanks Ruth, I agree. It is all about professionalism, and delivering high standard that makes you a valuable partner to be in business with.

Fascinating article Paula! We’ve only done a few Fam Trips as we don’t really have the time to commit to any and all options, yet.

We have mostly done individual ones, but certainly now see a lot of benefits to group Media FAM trips. When you are less busy ..

Great read Paula. We are yet to go on a FAM trip, but look forward to an invitation that fits in with our fulltime work schedule. A lot of great info here, being a huge fan of cruises I would have loved to joined you onboard Golden Princess.

We are fortunate that Contented Traveller is now both of our full time jobs, so it makes it a lot more flexible for such group and individual trips.

This post reveals one side of travel bloggers life.So far I don’t have any experience with such press trips.But,it can be a great way to meet and interact with other bloggers.On the other way,yes it is a business trip and there are lot of things to do after the trip.

So true. It is a business trip no matter which way you look at it. There is work to be done before the trip, making sure you are well read on what the destination etc is about. There is work to be done on the trip, and a huge amount after it. In saying that, we love it and would not change it.

This is really interesting Paula as I’m occasionally tempted to start pursuing media trips but never have. Your change of heart has got me thinking…

Definitely do it. There are so many benefits that we were not aware of.

I’ve been on a couple of FAM trips this year, associated with conferences I attended. They were tiring but great. It is nice to get insider information and make contacts if there are things you want to see more of beyond the trip. I too wondered about everyone writing about the same thing, but we all seem to bring our own unique spin to it.

That was my biggest worry that we would not be able to bring our own styles to the writing. But it did happen.

I found this article very interesting because I have just returned from my first media FAM trip to Northern Japan. Yes it was exhausting and I had absolutely no rest, but I had the best time of my life. I feel that it has already had a very positive impact on my travel blog and hope that more FAM trips may be offered in the future. You never know I may get to join you one day!

I do agree, there are so many benefits in a Media FAM trip. I love Japan, so will look forward to reading of your ventures. Let’s hope we get to do one together.

Thanks for sharing your experiences, love learning from you!

Thanks Janet. I think we all learn from one another.

Great article. I was averse to group FAMs earlier too but I’ve really begun to enjoy them. A combination of group and individual FAMs is ideal.

I agree, we certainly changed our minds about group trips, but we also enjoy individual Media FAM trips too.

We have yet to go on a FAM trip, and really didn’t know that much about them. This is really helpful. Thanks Paula.

Thank you. Media FAM trips are a unique and different way to experience a destination.

Paula and Gordy, I take FAM trip’s every chance I get. Yes they are tiring (especially at our ages), but we can always catch up on sleep when we get home. I have explored several countries I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to see, without the FAM trips. One of the other benefits IMHO, is the networking with other bloggers. I think it’s wonderful to spend a few days with other bloggers and see if you really get along. I have only found one instance where the travel person wasn’t my cup of tea! All the rest have been extraordinary individuals! #safetravels Mike

I hope we get to go on a Media FAM trip with you one day Mike, because I agree totally with you. We would never have got to experience Raja Ampat, Sulawesi and the Spice islands without this, and the professional development that get by default with traveling with other professionals is invaluable.

Loved this article. I guess for us new bloggers it’s the ‘big’ question, how to promote yourself to get the FAM trips or on the radar (so to speak). Tips on that would be helpful too! Thanks so much!

I wish I had the answer for you. It is a random that we get invited. I would love to know why, but we have had some amazing individual and group Media FAM trips over the years. It is probably serendipity. But let me think on this, and see if i can interview some of the companies we have worked with to uncover the modus operandi.

Thanks so much

Great article, Paula! As a PR person, I’m always interested in hearing the journalists’ take on media press tours. I’ve shared this with the clients I work with. Thank you!

Marti, you were one of the most mazing people we have worked with, and we look forward to working with you again. I need to go belly up to the bar, eat more maple syrup and see some of our lovely friends from the Distinctive Inns of New England.

One benefit of these trips is the chance to interact with well informed locals who usually speak excellent English. I’ve found the leaders of these trips to be willing to engage on a wide range of topics.

I totally agree Suzanne. Often it is the unplanned things and conversations that give you the differentiation in your articles.

Offering FAM trips to bloggers is kind of disappointing because most travel bloggers are terrible writers who claim objectivity. The art of travel writing takes a serious hit when writers are chosen for their metrics and not their skills.

That’s a little disappointing to hear. I believe readers enjoy hearing people’s personal perceptions, and can probably forgive an odd grammatical or structural error. I would think that the art of travel writing is about communicating with your readers on an engaged and personal level.What does make a ‘good’ travel writer?

I guess the idea thing to do is first make some background check and research about the bloggers before you invite them. Think about the content, your market, your goals etc.

Nice write up Paula! 9 flights, 7 days. Never ever ever 😀 Cool to see how you’ve had your opinion of them changed.

It was meeting you Jub; that changed my perspective totally xxx

Is it predominantly PR agencies or tourism boards that contact you? Or do you reach out to them?

PR agencies, Tourism Boards, hotels, restaurants, etc etc reach out to us for the Media FAM trips. We did however, on the 2nd trip to Raja Ampat, Indonesia reach out to them after they did a call out on Trav Media.

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What is a Press Trip? Your Questions Answered

A press trip, aka a media trip or familiarisation trip (FAM trip), is a trip that a tourism board, hotel, or other organisation organises to allow journalists, reporters, influencers, or content creators to experience a destination or product firsthand. From my personal experience, journalists on a press trip usually get free travel, accommodations, and activities. The expectation is that the media on the trip will write articles or produce other content about their experience. This expectation is the norm in Ireland, however, in other countries it is different.

What does it mean for journalists on press trips?

For me, as a travel writer, press trips can be an excellent opportunity to learn about new destinations and products and also get some great photos and videos for my articles. They can also be fun, as you get to travel with like-minded people and experience new things. However, as a writer, I need to remember that I am first and foremost on a press trip, and my primary goal is to produce objective and unbiased content. I also have to ensure that I avoid allowing the tourism board or other organisations hosting the trip to influence me. I also always need to ask tough questions.

What does it mean for readers of articles generated from press trips?

When readers read articles generated from press trips, it is essential to remember that the journalists who wrote the articles were guests of the tourism board or other organisations that sponsored the trip. This means the journalists may have been influenced by their hosts, and their articles may not be entirely objective. However, it is also important to remember that journalists are trained to be objective and that they will typically try to present a balanced view of the destination or product they are writing about.

Ultimately, it is up to the readers to decide how much weight to give to articles generated from press trips. Therefore, if you are a reader looking for unbiased information about a destination or product, do additional research.

Here are some tips for readers of articles generated from press trips:

• Be aware of the source of the article. Is it from a reputable publication? Is the journalist who wrote the article an expert on the destination or product?
• Read the article critically. Look for any biases or omissions.
• Do your own research. Visit the destination or product yourself, or read other articles about it.

By following these tips, you can be more confident that the information you read is accurate and unbiased.

What is a press trip? For journalists, they are a multifaceted adventure:

For journalists and content creators, press trips are a blend of adventure, exploration, and professional growth. Here’s what it means for them:

In-Depth Experience : Press trips allow journalists to immerse themselves fully in the destination. They get a chance to explore local attractions, engage with the culture, meet locals, and partake in activities that create a deep understanding of the place.

Exclusive Access : These trips often include exclusive access to behind-the-scenes experiences, expert guides, and hard-to-reach locations. This provides journalists with unique angles and insider information to enrich their stories.

Storytelling Opportunities : Press trips offer a treasure trove of stories waiting to be told. From lesser-known destinations to remarkable encounters, journalists gather material that brings their travel narratives to life.

Networking : Interacting with fellow journalists, tourism representatives, and locals on these trips can lead to valuable networking opportunities. These connections can open doors to future collaborations and assignments.

Challenges and Responsibility : While press trips are undoubtedly exciting, they come with the responsibility of representing the destination accurately and ethically. Balancing the joy of the experience with the professionalism of reporting is crucial.

What is a press trip? For readers, they are a window to the world:

Press trips are not just transformative experiences for journalists; they also have a significant impact on the stories that reach readers:

Firsthand Insights : Articles crafted from press trips provide readers with insights that go beyond the surface. Personal experiences and anecdotes make the destination feel more relatable and enticing.

Informed Choices : Readers gain valuable information about destinations, accommodations, activities, and local culture. This equips them to make informed decisions when planning their own trips.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Discoveries : Journalists often uncover hidden spots and local gems during their press trips. Readers benefit from these discoveries, gaining access to places they might not find in traditional travel guides.

Visual Delights : Stunning photographs and videos captured during press trips accompany articles, immersing readers in the destination’s beauty and atmosphere.

Inspiration : Reading about a journalist’s journey can inspire readers to embark on their own adventures. It ignites a sense of wanderlust and encourages them to explore new horizons.

Being transparent about press trips

Whilst most of my travel is self-funded, I occasionally take part in press trips. However, when I write an article, I always say whether it was part of a press trip. I aim to be as transparent as possible so you can make informed choices about the places you read about.

So, having read this ‘what is a press trip’ article, do you now know what a press trip is? Finally, and as always, if you have any questions or comments about press trips or transparency, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Finally, finally, all the photos in this post are from a press trip to Jordan. I was on assignment for the Sunday Times. You can read my article by clicking this link . If you want to read a press trip article, here is my Queens Travel Guide .

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How to Find the Best Press Trips in 2022

Posted by Michele Peterson on May 29, 2021 in Destinations , Writing Craft | Comments Off on How to Find the Best Press Trips in 2022

Want to travel the world and get paid for it? Looking for invitations for international tourism board press trips for travel writers or curious about how to get hotel, airfare and destination support for an individual media trip?

You’re not alone. These are some of the most popular questions I get asked as a Canadian travel writer, blogger and publisher.

Explore the world – from Asia to the Caribbean – on a press trip

Public relations firms and destination marketing organizations (DMOs) are responsible for inviting journalists and bloggers on press trips or arranging media visits, both group and individual. They’re your best source for getting a media FAM trip invitation.

Here are some of the best sources of press trips for travel writers, bloggers and other media professionals who want to network with travel industry pros and discover the best press trip opportunities in 2021 and beyond.

Note: Dates, costs, fees and other details of conferences can change without notice so readers should double-check for accuracy.

1. International Media Marketplace ( IMM)

This single-day  networking and relationship-building Media Marketplace and Summit hosted by TravMedia , is one of the top events for travel journalists, editors and broadcasters to meet travel and tourism brands. It’s a prime place to get story ideas and opportunities to participate in press trips for travel writers and bloggers.

In order to be successful in pitching with the brands you like the most, you should prepare for your meetings. Conduct some advance research on the brands you’re meeting with and  be prepared to showcase yourself and demonstrate your unique value. At minimum you should have demographics of your audience, reach and social channels (see our Media Kit for one example).

International Media Marketplace is held in the US as well as other locations around the world and since 2013, has featured more than 1,425 exhibitors  represented by more than  1,835 PR and Travel Industry Professionals.

It takes place in New York in January 2023. 

2. TBEX Europe and TBEX North America 2022 and 2023

If you’re  a travel blogger, podcaster, videographer or writer, TBEX offers an opportunity to network with fellow new media creators and industry professionals such as PR representatives, major brands, tourism boards and destination marketing organizations.

It’s also an opportunity to bolster your skills in SEO, affiliate marketing, photography and growing your social media presence on Pinterest , Twitter, Facebook and TikTok.  The fee to attend is relatively low and there are generally attractively discounted accommodation options and a wealth of pre and post trips.

TBEX Europe 2022 was held in Marbella, Spain and will take place in Thailand in the fall.  Get details on other upcoming events at TBEX

3.  Travel Media Association of Canada

Canada’s national trade association representing qualified members of the travel media will hold their 2023 conference in Sudbury, Ontario.

Monthly Munch n’ Mingle events and directory listings offer the opportunity to meet with industry pros. Membership in TMAC is by qualification and there is a fee to attend the conference. Get details at  Travel Media Association of Canada 

Related: If you’re headed to Victoria and have to pass through Vancouver, check out these ideas for great day trips from Vancouver. 

The 3-day  U.S. Travel Association’s IPW is the travel industry’s top international marketplace and brings together 6,000 attendees including more than 1,000 U.S. travel organizations as well as international media.

During the event, travel journalists also have the opportunity to participate in specialized press tours and can also sign-up for official post-FAMs offered by the state.  It will be held in Orlando, Florida on June 4 to 8, June 3, 2022. Get details at IPW 

5. Society of American Travel Writers

Qualify to join this prestigious organization and you’ll be attending conferences (and pre/post trips) in exciting locations.

In 2022, the SATW convention will be held in Colombia, South America. Plus, you’ll be listed in a Directory that’s a go-to spot for PR and travel industry pros.

Get details at Society of American Travel Writers

6. North America Travel Journalists Association

The annual NATJA conference offers its members  the opportunity to meet with US, Canadian and international tourism representatives, attend personal development sessions, network with other travel writers/editors and participate in destination tours as well as pre and post press tours.

In 2019, the NATJA Conference & Marketplace was held in Syracuse, New York from May 15-May 18, 2019. In 2020, it will be held in Puerto Rico.

A wide selection of Pre and Post Press trips will be available for attendees. NATJA membership is by qualification and there is a fee to attend the conference. Get details at North America Travel Journalists Association

7. The World Travel Market (WTM)

WTM is the grand-daddy of travel industry events, drawing almost 48,000 industry professionals across four days.

Score an invitation to this conference and you’ll meet with reps from over 150 countries – Angola to Uzbekistan. Get details at World Travel Market

8. International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association

This network of journalists covering the hospitality industry offers an annual conference as well as ongoing press trip opportunities for Taste & Tour events in foodie destinations such as Missouri, Switzerland and California.

Get details at International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association 

9. Travel Classics Writers Conference

This event offers pre/ post conference trips and includes presentations & workshops with top magazine editors, one-on-one consultations with 6-8 guest editors (not for the tongue-tied). This conference is focused more on the craft of writing and building contacts with editors than press trip opportunities.

10. Visit Europe Media Exchange ( VEMEX)

Presented by the European Travel Commission, the Visit Europe Media Exchange (VEMEX) is a one day forum in late October for industry professionals and invited travel media. Formerly held in three locations in North America, it’s a whirlwind series of one-on-one appointments much like speed dating.

Register on the VEMEX website to receive an invitation. Get details at  VEMEX

Be ready to pitch your best story ideas to industry representatives at break-neck speed. If there’s a match, you may be invited on a press visit. If not, at least you’ll have a suitcase full of swag and plenty of story ideas.  There is no charge for invited media.

11. GoMedia Canada Marketplace

Sponsored by the Canadian Tourism Commission, this is where Canada’s provinces, territories and industry suppliers strut their stuff in a selection of first rate pre/post conference press trip opportunities. GoMedia 2020 will be held September 10 to 13 in Victoria, B.C.

Prospective attendees must register at the beginning of each year to be considered. There is no fee to attend and airfare/transportation is usually provided for qualified and invited attendees.

12. Travel South Showcase

This conference is focused mostly on tour operators and suppliers but still offers plenty of networking and city FAM tours for travel trade journalists  looking for an excuse to visit Waffle House or enjoy some southern hospitality in the winter. The 7th annual Travel South USA International Showcase will be in Baton Rouge March 8-11, 2020. Get information at the Travel South Showcase. 

13. Travel Media Showcase

This annual 2-day event, held in different U.S. cities each year, offers an opportunity for travel journalists and travel industry professionals to meet one-on-one, at a single location. A wide range of often unique Pre/Post tours can make it worth braving the intense appointment schedule. Dates for TMS 2020 have not yet been announced so check for updates at Travel Media Showcase

14. Adventure Travel World Summit

Strap on your mountaineering gear for this conference focused on outdoor adventure, extreme sports and professional development. The 2020 Adventure Travel World Summit will be held in Adelaide, Australia October 6-9, 2020.

It features top notch speakers, networking, marketplace appointments with suppliers and plenty of opportunity to explore the host destination. Membership is by qualification

15. The KITI

Sign up for a membership to this online information exchange that unites working travel journalists and PR professionals worldwide.

Get story ideas, submit requests or respond to others according to your account level. Search, save and reply to what is of interest.  The KITI 

16. Travel Massive

This worldwide network of welcoming travel professionals, bloggers, new media creators and industry pros meets regularly in a social setting ( think drinks and munchies) to share information, learn about online writing craft, technology and destinations. With chapters everywhere from Amsterdam to Washington, you might be able to find ‘one in your home city.

If not, it’s worth checking out the online event calendar and joining an event on one of your travels. You’ll need to qualify,  but new bloggers are welcome to join so Travel Massive is a good place to begin if you’re new to the industry. Get details at Travel Massive

17. Mid-Atlantic Media Marketplace

Hosted by the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance ( MATRA)  this fall event includes press trip opportunities and media meetings with PR professionals representing Delaware, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. The MATPRA Media Marketplace 2020 will be held  September 21-23. Apply early if you’re interested in attending Mid-Atlantic Media Marketplace

18. Adventure Travel Mexico

Hosted by the Mexico Tourism Board, the ATMEX conference showcases what Mexico in terms of adventure, nature and cultural travel. It’s an opportunity to network with the people responsible for organizing immersive experiences and Mexico’s wealth of outdoor adventure destinations.

ATMEX will be taking place in Baja California Sur in the Fall 2020.  FAM trips and press trip opportunities are available. Hosted Media have airfare and accommodation paid. Get details at Adventure Travel Mexico

19. Tianguis Turistico – Mexico Tourism Media Marketplace

This annual event hosted by Mexico Tourism generally takes place in Acapulco, Guerrero but in 2020 it will be taking place in Merida.   Dates for Tianguis 2020 are March 22-25, 2020. Get details at Tianguis Turistico 

20. Women in Travel Summit

The WITS event is aimed at women travel influencers and publishers as well as brands that want to work with them. WITS North America will be held in Kansas in April 2020 and WITS Europe will take place in Gdank, Poland from October 16-18, 2020. Visit their website at Women in Travel Summit.

21. Tourism Boards

It’s also possible to contact tourism boards directly and submit an application for an individual press trip or group trip.  Most tourism boards and travel writing conferences require qualification by way of clips, significant publication circulation and readership stats and more. Competition for invitations can be fierce and press trip disclosure rules apply.

How to Work with Public Relations Companies

It’s also worth mentioning that there are many other reasons to attend conferences, join professional associations and maintain relationships with public relations firms and destination marketing organizations (DMOs).

Not only are the people you meet at these media marketplace events, experts about their destinations,  they often have insider access to interview sources, fact-checking resources, image banks, unique story ideas and the latest news about upcoming developments — all of which can help you write better travel stories.

What is a FAM Trip?

Although often confused with a media press trip, the term “FAM trip” originally referred to a “Familiarization trip” and was aimed at travel agents. It was intended to be (and still is) a free or low cost way for travel agents to become familiar with a destination in order to portray it more accurately to their clients and sell more product.

A FAM  trip for  travel agents or consultant is often provided by a tour operator, hotel brand or an airline as a means of promoting their service.

A beach cabana during a press trip in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Differences between a FAM Trip and a Press trip

The terms FAM trip and Press Trip are often used interchangeably, but press trips for travel writers and bloggers generally include more opportunities for experiencing a destination  through its cuisine, culture and history rather than hotel inspections. A FAM trip is generally focused more on property inspections and may include more hotel and attraction tours than a media press trip.

Another important difference is that a FAM trip may (but not always) have a cost associated with it. Travel writers are not charged a cost to participate in a media press trip.

Other Ways to Find Press Trips for Travel Writers, Bloggers, Influencers and Journalists

Become Cabin Crew: If you’re not interested in freelance travel writing, you might be interested in  a job as cabin crew with an airline. Check out Resources for Prospective Cabin Crew to help secure a job travelling the world with airlines such as Norwegian Air, Thai Airways, Air India and others.

Volunteer Abroad: If you’re interested in teaching English, working overseas or volunteering in a foreign country, a worthwhile website to browse is Transitions Abroad. Since 1977, it’s been helping readers explore the world and broaden their horizons.

Awards and Recognition: If you win an award for travel writing (as we did for our Costa Rica Intergenerational Family Travel story) or are recognized for travel writing excellence, then you’ll likely be contacted and approached directly for travel press trip opportunities. But beware of scams – in no case should you be expected to pay a deposit to secure a place on a press trip.

If you’re just starting out, you might want to learn more about how to start a travel blog. You might also be interested in my How to Break into Travel Writing Online Course and Workshop. 

Do you know of other sources for finding travel writing press trip opportunities or PR contacts for media visits? Do you have other favourite conferences for travel writers? Let me know and I’ll add them to the list

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• Posted on November 4, 2015
• In Event Planning , Hospitality PR , Marketing , Public Relations , Social Media

Five Simple Ways to Host a Successful Media Trip

By Erica Schlesinger, Communications Strategist

For our hospitality PR client partners, a key component to a successful media relations strategy is planning press visits. Sometimes, this involves setting up an individual journalist with a hotel stay, activities and meals on their own, but often, we will plan a group press trip. Also called a familiarization, or “fam” trip, these team endeavors are a great way to form personal relationships with members of the media while also securing multiple features for client partners. I have personally planned and attended more than 10 press trips, so I like to think I know a thing or two about making them smooth and successful!

Check out my top five tips for pulling off a great getaway:

• Plan ahead – As much as possible, start narrowing down dates, general trajectory of the trip, how many people to host and target audiences about four or five (or even six for a longer trip) months in advance. Many sought-after travel journalists have trips lined up back-to-back, so getting on their calendars is much more likely when you give them the chance to plan ahead. It may seem like overkill, but you’ll have a clear picture of who can make it – and who can’t – with enough time to fill your trip and stay organized… without having a last-minute panic attack.
• Be flexible – Schedules change, people run late and guests can develop newfound food allergies or fears of heights when you had a meticulous tasting menu and zipline excursion planned. There is no such thing as a perfect fam trip – when you’re balancing five to seven writers, their guests, their requests, different onsite teams working together and robust itineraries, something is bound to change (and often last-minute and on-the-go). It may not always be convenient or ideal, but tackle it as you would any professional issue: take a breath, use your head, ask for help as needed and take it from there. You’ll soon have it handled. I’ve had writers have overnight flight delays or at-home emergencies, change preferences on a completed itinerary, show up with an unexpected guest and much more. At the end of the day, you’re there to make sure they arrive safely, have a good experience and leave happy – and want to work with you again and say nice things about your clients as a result. Another tip – be transparent with your client partner and inform them of any issues that may impact their teams, but if they don’t need to get involved, don’t bring them into the mix.
• Bio sheet – Ask each press trip attendee for a photo, brief bio, what their story will be about and the reach of their outlet, then compile into a single document to share with stakeholders. It gives a snapshot of who they’ll be meeting so they can prepare to chat with them, address any special preferences and get an idea of what sort of result they can expect from their time and money.
• Google Docs/Google Drive – AKA your press trip BFF. Load any spreadsheets, bio sheets, itineraries and other documents up, add approved editors and watch edits appear in real time… without having 50 back-and-forth emails. Isn’t that nice?
• Preference sheet/head count sheet – This is like a press trip “master document.” Here, we will have all key information any given member of our team or our clients’ team may need at any time to plan the trip. Excel is a great platform to build this in, then – you guessed it – load it into Google Drive. At the very least, this should include all contact info for each attendee, information on their preferences and any health or dietary needs, their guest, their meal selections and their activity preferences. For the latter two, build a “total count” row into the bottom of the sheet – this makes interfacing with activity partners and building BEOs a much easier process.
• Itinerary – Also like the Press Trip Bible. This is a very detailed timeline covering everything attendees can expect from their trip, right down to notes about driving times if they’re arriving separately and check-in tips for spa appointments. It will keep you, your team and your guests on track from day one to waving goodbye. We WOC-ers like to add each element of the itinerary into our smartphone calendars with a 30-minute warning so we can always be one step ahead.
• Be a social butterfly – As a PR pro, you are on a fam trip to represent your client partner, guide the trip and act as a go-to source for information, but in reality, you’re the chief entertainer, too. You will be the person these folks will see the most over two, three, sometimes six or seven days, and it is your job to make sure they all feel welcome and are having fun. When everyone arrives, get them all introduced to one another (including their guests) – and you should not have to refer to any notes for names or what outlet they’re from! During the first meet-and-greet with key members of your client partner’s team, introduce both parties with full names and titles. While at meals or driving in a group, make an effort to mix and mingle with different people. Sometimes, some attendees are much harder to connect with than others – resist the urge to stick with Chatty Cathy the whole trip through. It may be Silent Sue who has the most questions, is the most uncomfortable around groups or just needs some encouragement to open up.
• Be a human clock – Real talk… media attendees are rarely keeping track of the time and itinerary while on press trips. Which is fine, since they’re there for the experience. PR pros, however, need to be on schedule at all times. During activities, keep an eye on the time and give updates (“Hey, guys, we have about 20 more minutes in this location. Is there anything else you need to see or photograph before we prepare to move on?”) – this can even mean politely urging a tour guide along, or pulling a chef aside in advance of a big meal to remind him or her of your after-dinner itinerary. If sending people off on free time before another set of activities, and during the last get-together of the evening, remind people of the time and location of their next scheduled stop. It might seem like a lot of “hovering,” but you’ll be surprised how quickly people forget when dinner is or where they need to check it for their morning horseback ride after a full day.

Putting together a winning press trip takes much more than following a few guidelines, but these are a great place to start. Hospitality PR pros, what other tips would you share after running trips of your own?

To learn more about (W)right On’s hospitality PR team, results and capabilities, check out WrightOnComm.com/Hospitality .

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Alacia lauer, sr. communications strategist, b2b & tech.

Alacia is a strategic communications expert who partners with innovators to make the world a better place for everyone. She provides strategic counsel and support to our client partners, focusing on B2B and Tech. Prior to joining (W)right On, Alacia led communications for local and national organizations across the private, public and nonprofit sectors, supporting a range of issues from government regulation of the tech industry to education and criminal-legal system reform. She holds a Master of Science in Strategic Communications from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science in Journalism and Communication from the University of Oregon.

Alacia enjoys traveling with her partner and being in nature. And she is almost ready to get a dog.

Grant Wright

Ceo & managing partner.

Grant Wright has more than 30 years of senior management experience including external affairs and business development leadership roles for major American and Canadian corporations and their subsidiaries. With extensive skills in all aspects of communications including media, regulatory, governmental, community outreach and labor relations; he has also led major infrastructure project development, M&A due diligence and implementation management, marketing and brand development, strategic planning and business plan development for small through Fortune 500 companies.

As CEO and Managing Partner, Grant provides oversight and senior-level communications and business counsel for the agency’s client partners while also overseeing agency management and administration.

Grant holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and an MBA in Marketing and Finance. Professionally, he is formerly a Board Director of the San Diego Venture Group (now Connect San Diego – the region’s venture capital ecosystem). Grant is a two-time Finalist for the San Diego Business Journal’s Most Admired CEO Awards, and currently is in his second year as Chair of the North American chapter of the International PR Network (IPRN) based in Brussels, Belgium. He is also one of five board directors chosen by its worldwide membership for a second year to lead IPRN globally. A resident of and advocate for San Diego, and with (W)right On being a prominent tenant in San Diego’s iconic Emerald Plaza, Grant also serves on the board of directors of the Downtown San Diego Partnership .

During his free time, Grant enjoys scuba diving, hiking and family time. He is also a commercial pilot licensed in both Canada and the U.S. and is the founding board chairman of the  Southern California Aviation Association  that has provided more than $500,000 in student scholarship grants since the organization’s inception.

Terry Whitaker

Associate vice president, strategic communications.

A communications veteran with more than 20 years’ experience, Terry brings brand development and communication programs to life through strategic counsel and event activations across the agency’s client partners. He’s most at home developing and implementing fresh ideas and strategically integrated approaches for client partners’ complex communication needs that keep the agency at the forefront of our industry.

Before joining the (W)right On team, Terry was based in Sydney, Australia and represented client partners such as the USA’s National Football League, Visit California, Sydney Festival, Budweiser, Electronic Sports League, Holden, IBM, TEDx, Major League Baseball International and numerous others.

Terry’s past accomplishments include winning a Bronze Media Lion Award at the Cannes International Advertising Festival; helping three Australian startups be named to the Fast 100; and managing media relations for the Australian speaking tours of former US Presidents Bill Clinton and George HW Bush involving hundreds of journalists and raising millions for charity.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Terry enjoys family time with his wife and two young children, travel and team sports.

David Cumpston

Associate vice president, lifestyle & hospitality.

David brings more than 22 years of communication experience to (W)right On’s client partners, currently overseeing the agency’s hospitality, tourism, senior living, wellness and education practice areas. He has developed and successfully led strategic communications for numerous prominent brands including JP Morgan Chase, Oakmont Management Group, Aramark, San Diego Tourism Marketing District, SEGA, RISE Healthcare Group, Horizon Organic, Visit Napa Valley, Stanford Children’s Hospital, Orbitz, Best Western, Walmart and Velodyne Lidar.

He is a two-time winner of Bulldog Media’s Best Response to Breaking News Award and earned a bachelor degree in Mass Communication & Public Relations from Texas State University.  David cemented his love for travel early on and has visited more than 45 countries on six continents; he’s also passionate about dogs and, in particular, his Chiweenie mix, Dora.

Larry Smalheiser

Vice president, b2b & tech.

Larry is a strategic communications and PR pro who brings more than 20 years’ in-house, agency and independent experience driving brand visibility, supporting sales growth, and establishing executives as thought leaders in the B2B and B2C spaces. He has a track record of building, leading, and excelling on cross-functional global teams for emerging and established brands including Sony, Dell, VMware, RSA, Xerox, Virgin Galactic, Underwriters Laboratories, Purfresh, Radiant Logic, Sumo Logic and more. He regularly serves as mentor to business and community organizations and has earned two PRSA Silver Anvil Awards for his work over the years.

Larry most recently served as Public Relations and Analyst Relations Lead at Sony Electronics, where he worked closely with Sony Electronics North America President & COO, and the global team. He holds a Master’s degree, is fluent in Japanese and Spanish, and lives in San Diego with his wife and their rescue Morkie, Cookie.

Capree Waters

Senior content strategist.

Capree has more than 5 years of experience in content marketing and content strategy. She is skilled in helping elevate brands through SEO, content writing, marketing strategy, analytics, and project management. Some of Capree’s efforts for the (W)right On team include providing social media strategy, content marketing, copy writing, research and analytics, media pitching, and more. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from San Diego State University.

Communications Coordinator

As Wright On’s newest Communications Coordinator, Hector Antonio “Tony” Ramos brings extensive experience to the role in crafting compelling narratives and strategic communications strategies that are tailored to diverse audiences. Throughout his career, Tony has honed his expertise in media relations, content creation, community relations and event coordination. His ability to merge creativity with strategy has been instrumental in driving engagement and fostering meaningful connections across platforms. Tony earned his Bachelor’s degree in communications studies from San Diego State University and in his free time, he likes to take his dog Rex camping or to the dog beach.

Felicia Watson

Associate vice president, creative services.

With a proven track record of success and more than 20 years of design and marketing experience, Felicia approaches each project with a commitment to create an impactful design that achieves results. Responsible for leading the agency’s creative services that integrate print and digital graphic design, online programming, videography, editing and photography, Felicia also oversees agency services including animation, motion graphics, and emerging technologies including augmented/virtual reality and holography as they may be integrated in strategic communication programs.

Through the course of her career, Felicia has created effective marketing campaigns for many notable domestic and international brands including the Motion Picture Association of America, Kirkland, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, bliss Skincare, City National Bank, Abbott Diagnostics, KB Home and more.

Felicia was named a 2023 San Diego Business Journal Leader of Influence in Advertising, PR & Marketing. Felicia holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of San Diego and enjoys keeping abreast of new creative technologies in the ever-evolving field of marketing communications.

Aditi Vengurlekar

Multimedia graphic designer.

With a background in video editing, special effects and painting, Aditi enjoys creating strategic, thoughtful and meaningful work. Her role of Multimedia Graphic Designer, combines her decade of experience in 3D animation for award-winning studios with her expertise in developing marketing, branding and promotional materials.

Aditi holds a Masters of Arts degree in Visual Effects and Animation and graduated with honors. Apart from professional endeavors, Aditi loves to paint, swim and spend time with her family.

Julie Wright

President and founder.

Julie Wright is President of (W)right On Communications, Inc., the award-winning integrated strategic communications firm she founded in 1998. With offices in San Diego, Los Angeles and Vancouver, B.C., her team handles complex communications challenges for B2B tech, cleantech and energy, healthcare, tourism and hospitality, not-for-profit and public sector organizations. Wright and her team elevate the agency experience through data-driven insights and measurable results for client partners.

Earlier in her career, Wright served at several public relations agencies and in-house as Director of Marketing for a financial institution. She began her career as a journalist, working as a radio news anchor.

Wright currently serves as a director and past chair of the San Diego North Economic Development Council and a director of CalTravel. Her previous community service has included director of the Los Angeles chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators , board vice president of the La Jolla Village Merchants Association , trustee for the Tri-City Hospital Foundation and chair of the President’s Advisory Council for California State University San Marcos.

Wright was named a “Woman Who Means Business” by the San Diego Business Journal and a “40 Under 40” honoree by the San Diego Metropolitan magazine. She was also recognized with the annual Fran Aleshire Award for community leadership by Leadership North County and founded the LNC Alumni group, which is now 400 strong.

Wright holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of B.C. and a Master of Journalism degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at the University of Western Ontario. She is a graduate of the Leadership North County program as well as the Corporate Directors Forum Governance Academy.

She lives in San Diego with her husband, has two sons in college, loves being outdoors in Southern California and Vancouver, and has a passion for elephants, frogs and Champagne. Twitter LinkedIn Facebook 

Corie Fiebiger

Senior communications strategist.

With more than 10 years of experience in prior marketing roles in the Santa Barbara and Los Angeles markets, Corie supports the (W)right On team in multi-channel digital marketing, client relations management, social media, copywriting and copyediting, research and analytics, media pitching and more.

Corie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from the University of California Santa Barbara.

Brian Wright

Communications program analyst.

Responsible for communication programs research and analysis, Brian provides administrative and functional support to the agency’s program leads as well as senior management. With experience managing a retail store in the complex pool supply industry, Brian is a key contributor for social media programs, media relations, content development, vendor management, software programs oversight and other critical program aspects. He brings an innate sense of the agency’s GSD attitude to help ensure the agency remains at the industry forefront.

Brian holds a Bachelor of Economics degree from the University of Victoria in British Columbia, is an FAA-licensed Private Pilot, and is an accomplished musician and music producer in his spare time.

Director, Hospitality Communications

Shae Geary is a seasoned professional with 20 years of experience representing world-class travel and hospitality PR clients . Formerly PR Director with Four Seasons Resorts and a consultant for a wide variety of resorts in California, Hawaii and Mexico, Shae began her career in Hawaii for six years with the state’s largest PR firm. Over the course of her career, Shae has spearheaded numerous campaigns involving everything from hotel openings and property renovations to anniversaries and special events. Her expertise in communications and all things hospitality includes a broad range of niche markets – spa, golf, recreation, weddings, dining, luxury, family and green travel. Shae holds a Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and Master’s degree in Mass Communications (with PR emphasis) from UC Santa Barbara. In her spare time, Shae enjoys playing soccer, running training and spending time with her husband and two kids.

Roman Lukjanenko

Producer/videographer.

With more than 10 years of video production experience, Roman is a skilled cinematographer, editor and animator for such organizations as HP, PetSmart, Airbnb and Nike. Prior to joining the (W)right On team, Roman supported UCLA and UCLA Health where he successfully helped researchers, educators and healthcare professionals communicate their messages through comprehensive videos and motion graphic animations.  Roman believes that a well-crafted video brings organizations and their audiences closer together, improving understanding and ultimately strengthening society as a whole.

Phelan Riessen

Lead developer and technical resource.

Phelan Riessen is a passionate web and graphic design artist with over 25 years of experience designing and building more than 60 websites for a variety of organizations. Skilled in fontography, web design, Photoshop and web marketing strategies; Phelan also holds a strong presence in the San Diego tech community by serving as an organizer of several large-scale events including RefreshSD, March Mingle and Startup Week.

Katrina Early

Media integration specialist.

Formerly with VisitBritain and Showtime Networks, Katrina Early provides (W)right On client partners’ integrated and creative partnerships with film and TV studios, retailers, and media outlets such as  Sony Pictures, Universal, Warner Brothers, The Ellen DeGeneres Show  and  Entertainment Tonight  to name a few. Experienced in the hospitality, travel, entertainment industries among others, Katrina coordinates all aspects of B2B industry events, as well as grows client partners’ audience social media engagement through highly sharable digital content. Results achieved include positive media placement in top tier outlets including  National Geographic, Robb Report, Forbes, USA Today, LA Times, NBC/Today Show, E! News, Extra, The Tonight Show, People  and many others. Katrina holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism & Public Relations from CSU Long Beach and a Master of Arts in Communications from the prestigious University of Southern California Annenberg School of Communication.

Hamish Marshall

Director, research & analytics (w)oc intelligence.

As Director of Research & Analytics based out of (W)right On’s Vancouver office, Hamish leads (W)right On’s survey and stakeholder information gathering initiatives North America-wide. A former advisor to the Prime Minister of Canada, Provincial Premiers, City Mayors and dozens of elected officials, he also served in the government of Canada overseeing the quantitative and qualitative research activities of federal government agencies. With experience using every sort of data collection method to provide critical insights for strategic planning, marketing and other organizational activities, Hamish has worked with dozens of private and public sector client partners, including the world’s largest mining company. In 2004 he worked in radio business development in Kabul, Afghanistan, and he has volunteered in democracy-building activities in Bangladesh and Jordan. Today, Hamish is frequently sought out by the media as an expert commentator for national television, radio and print publications. Prior to joining (W)right On, Hamish worked as the Research Director for Angus Reid Public Opinion, conducting and performing analysis on surveys in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Oxford in England, a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) degree from the University of Toronto and enjoys history, writing and sailing.

Why host a media FAM trip?

You might be asking, why host media for a FAM anyway? It costs money, takes time to plan, and can frustratingly veer off-course. Is it really worth the hassle? Good question.

Pitching and press releases serve a number of functions and are great for peaking a journalist’s interest, but telling someone about a destination and actually showing them are totally different ballgames. Journalists who embark on a successful media FAM tend to write longer stories, better researched pieces, and produce a larger quantity of stories – sometimes months after a visit. That’s because we are giving them a chance to live our product, not just tell them what is great about it. And as a result, they are passing that experience on to their readers, time and time again.

How can you execute a successful FAM trip? The process is shifting as the media landscape evolves. Here are 3 trends you can tap into for your next FAM:

1. Experiences are #1

Journalists used to embark on a guided tour, visit as many locations as we could fit into their trip, then go home and sort through to find the most relevant spots for their story. No more. Writers no longer wish to cram their schedule with quick stops– instead they crave experiences. They don’t want to see where people can paddleboard – they want to get out on the water and paddleboard themselves.

This influences the stories they write in a big way:

• They get to see things firsthand, and write about the feeling of being on the water, of stepping into the park, or of tasting that first, delicious bite. These make for more compelling stories, and bring the reader into the narrative in a way that makes them want to book a visit as well.
• They get ideas for angles they might not have discovered before. Was the chef trained in Italy before landing in NY? Is the sauce made from locally sourced ingredients? By setting a slower pace the writer can dive deeper into a location, and focus in on the points that make a location unique.
• They get to meet the owners behind these businesses, which can sometimes fuel a story of its own.

2. Self-Guided Trips are Preferred

While the guided visit hasn’t completely gone away, there’s been a shift in more media requesting self-guided visits. This gives them a chance to experience the area like a real traveler would.

Instead of pushing for a guided tour, request to meet them for a meal instead. This gives you an extended period of time to talk and share what makes the attractions on their itinerary unique – and gives them a chance to ask questions about the places they’ll be visiting.

Group press trips are becoming less popular for the same reason. The freedom to explore and seek out new and interesting stories is not available when a group is being shown the same attractions and meeting the same people.

3. Digital & Social Integration are Key

The social reach during a FAM trip can be as important as the coverage after. Journalists are media entities of their own, in addition to representing a specific publication. Provide them with social handles for the places they are visiting, and the channels for the brand you are representing. Before the trip, make sure you:

• Specify digital components for every stop on the trip. Twitter and Instagram are especially easy channels to make a quick update or post a great photo. By supplying the handles ahead of time you’re allowing the writer to tweet and tag on the go.
• Offer downtime on the trip. It’s always good to ask the journalist if they need time to rest or catch up on work. Some writers prefer to be constantly on the go and will take time after the trip to debrief. Others – like digital editors and contributors – often request an hour each day to catch up on emails or update their content as they go.
• Make sure your itinerary is extremely detailed. After the trip, the itinerary becomes a writer’s best point of reference. Make sure you include any information they might need to write a successful story. In addition to the name of the location, address, and phone number, be sure to list all digital components – social channels and websites – and a brief description of the business. Don’t make the writer work to remember the stops they visited. The itinerary should tell the story of your destination, even before they do.

Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to planning a great media FAM trip.

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• Public Relations
• Digital + Social
• Integrated Campaigns

6 Tips for a Successful Group Press Trip

One of the most exciting and rewarding parts of working in travel PR is organizing and attending media trips. To familiarize journalists with their destination, hotel or cruise line, clients will embrace the opportunity to bring a group of writers on a press trip to expose them to their product. It will save clients time and resources to host a group trip over a pre-determined weekend instead of filling up their calendar with individual media visits and going through the same pitch over and over again. And while there are many benefits of hosting a press trip, there are many moving parts—it can seem like you’re spinning plates! Keeping in mind the following tips before you organize your next press trip will ensure that your clients are happy, the journalists are taken care of, and you, the PR representative, will ensure the trip runs smoothly from start to finish.

1. Find the Right Mix of Journalists or Influencers

When you schedule a press trip one of the first questions will be: who should we invite? Often the most desirable journalists for press trips are the ones who have the most experience. They are familiar with going on media trips at least once a month and are the most prepared for the unexpected bumps in the road that you may encounter. It’s important to consult your agency ’s records and see who has experienced press trips for your company in the past and been a pleasure to work with. You will feel better knowing that a writer has been trusted by your agency before and has produced good work on a past trip.

If your client is open to working with social media influencers, it is best not to mix them with traditional journalists. Influencers focus on capturing images while journalists focus on capturing a story, hence they are seeking different end goals. It’s best to stick to one group or the other and present the client with the deliverables expected from each attendee in advance.

2. Stay Extremely Organized with Travel Plans

A lot of people don’t realize that when you organize a press trip you are acting as a de facto travel agent. You will often have to be in charge of buying plane tickets, reserving rental cars or booking hotel rooms for the journalists on your press trip. It can be stressful to organize travel plans for a group of people coming from all different directions to see your client.  It is not an exaggeration to say that for some PR people, one of our worst nightmares is getting a frantic call from a journalist at an airport whose flight was booked for the wrong day. This is why you can never be too organized for your next press trip.

Make a document with everybody’s flight numbers, arrival and departure times and cell phone numbers and give them to the appropriate people on your account team. Have them double check all information, as it can never hurt to have a second or third look at travel plans in case something looks askew. Double check online the day before a trip to see if flights have been booked properly and encourage each person on the trip to check in to their flight with ample time to spare. If there’s a problem, you will want to know about it in advance with time to fix it.

3. Adequately Prepare Your Client

Over the course of a press trip, your client will be spending a lot of time with the journalists you have brought on the trip. Before the trip, prepare a media brief that gives your clients detailed information on everybody attending the trip, including pictures so they are easily recognizable, recent articles by the journalists that are relevant to their interest in the trip, cell phone numbers, social media handles (if they have them) and more information about the outlets they write for. The media on the trip will greatly appreciate your client’s preparation and it will go a long way towards establishing a good relationship between the two.

By providing clients with the social media handles of both journalists and influencers, they can ensure their organization is following their accounts before their arrival. This will also give them a good window into their personality, tone of voice and content.

4. Make a Very Detailed Itinerary

It should go without saying that an itinerary is extremely important on any press trip. Your itinerary is your Bible for the duration of your trip and all trip attendees will carry it along with them at all times. Writing from past experiences, even if you have sketched out what looks like the perfect itinerary, things often do find a funny way of getting off track. A good itinerary will always look over-detailed at first and may look like you have over-prepared. But the last thing you want is your group standing around and staring at each other and saying, “Now what?”

Make back up plans and alternative routes if your itinerary includes making many different stops and traveling from place to place. Plan in advance what you will feel OK cutting from your trip if you get behind schedule. A good itinerary will also have lots of notes and descriptions included of various places the group will be experiencing. Remember, when a journalist is writing an article about their trip, they will be referencing the itinerary. It will save them a lot of time if there are addresses, phone numbers and details on the document that can help them out so they don’t have to call or email you to ask.

5. Be Prepared for Anything

Everybody has a story from a press trip they hosted where things got a little off track. Each journalist who has been on a trip has stories of his or her own as well. This is merely the nature of the beast. As stated earlier, hosting a press trip is a precise juggling act and you can’t expect everything to run smoothly all the time—there are just too many moving parts and too many people involved.  Accepting that there are sometimes going to be things that happen beyond your control will make it a lot easier to handle a situation if and when it arises. Take a deep breath. It will be OK and you’ll do your best to make sure everybody is happy. But be prepared first. Expect that things can go wrong and make a plan for what you need to do in that situation.

6. Enjoy Yourself

Going on a press trip is one of the best job perks of working in travel PR . You get to travel to some of the most amazing places in the world, often before anybody else can have the experience. Soak it in. Yes, it’s hard work and you’re on the clock, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the trip too. You’re going to be counted on to come up with pitches based on what you’ve experienced when you get back, so approach these experiences with a sense of inquisitiveness like you’re a journalist too. Get to know the attendees on your trip as best as you can and work to form connections. Many might be a fit for another client down the road and may be someone you end up traveling with again.

Crafting a Media Familiarization (FAM) Trip

Throughout the year, our team coordinates multiple media familiarization (FAM) trips for destination marketing clients. A FAM trip is designed to educate travel writers and influencers on a destination so they can properly promote it through their media channels. Here are a few critical steps we take in order to plan a seamless trip for writers and influencers that result in optimum coverage and additional content for our client.

1. Communicate with your partners. FAM trips take a village and absolutely depend on a strong relationship with destination hotels, attractions, restaurants and more. Strong partnerships are essential when planning trips because the host destination marketing organization (DMO) requires accommodations, meals and things to do for the visiting writers. If the destination partners are very aware of what they will be giving and receiving with the FAM trip, this will make the decision for them to participate a simple one. For example, if an accommodations partner donates a hotel room stay, in exchange, the writer will include detailed information about the accommodations in her/her blog posts and media profiles. Communicating early and often with partners is essential for creating mutually beneficial, trusting relationships. 

2. Have a plan. A detailed plan for the entire trip is important for all involved. All journalists in attendance should have a copy of their itinerary that is tailored to them specifically. In addition, all partners involved should be given a copy of the all of the travelers’ itineraries. Having a plan ensures that everyone is aware of where they should be and when, making the trip as smooth as possible. This detailed plan should include times, locations, contacts and directions (if the writers are using their own means of transportation) with appropriate time built it for breaks, commuting and unexpected occurrences.

3. Stay flexible. While a plan is crucial for a FAM trip, it is even more important to expect things to not go as planned. If and when the itinerary doesn’t go as expected, it is important to communicate with all who will be affected (travel writers, partners, etc.) Remaining flexible allows for a stress-free experience for the journalists, resulting in a better experience for them and positive coverage for the destination.

4. Stay true to your brand. A DMO’s goal should always be for the participants on the FAM trip to spread the brand’s message. In order to ensure this happens, the itinerary created for the travel writers has to reflect the brand. Highlight your unique points of difference and “stay in your lane”. It’s okay to not have something for everyone. Understand what your destination does well and build an itinerary around the highlights.

Pro tip: Recruit travel writers and influencers that are a good fit for your destination, hotel, restaurant, etc. If you are a yoga retreat, it may be best to steer clear from “adventure” writers or travel writing families.

What are your FAM trip tips? Let us know in the comments!

Photo: Double Duty Mommy on a FAM trip in Navarre Beach  

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What is it?

A press trip offers journalists the chance to gain first-hand experience of a place or a particular situation. In Occupational Health and Safety campaigns, press trips are often organised to go and visit best practice factories and companies.

• A press trip enables journalists to have first-hand experience of a place or a particular situation.
• Journalists like to get their own facts, to ask questions and they like to have ‘stories’ to tell based on real examples.

Limitations

• Organising a press trip involves bigger costs than other ways of communication.
• Organising the trip can also be time consuming.

Preparing the trip

When preparing the trip:

• Select your case study/studies or trip purpose.
• Select the location.
• Provide information in advance to journalists about the trip and the programme to insure your journalists are ready.

Who to invite

• Select the media you want to invite. Think of mostly specialised Occupational Health and Safety press and regional press.
• Choose at least 8 but not more than 15 journalists. Not so few that the organisational costs become proportionately too high and not so many as to make the individual management of the media difficult.
• Ask the media in advance who they would like to interview and try to organise attendees accordingly.
• Select the people you will meet and interview. Your trip should give the media the opportunity to speak to people who have very different positions in order to present a balanced story. For example, for a factory visit, you could put journalists in touch with a manager, a member of staff and an Occupational Health and Safety specialist.
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September 5

How to Run a Press Trip for Travel Media

Media Relations , Public Relations , Tourism Marketing

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As we emerge from nearly two years of travel restrictions, many tourism businesses are anxious to promote their destinations and tours and to start getting some travel press .

One of the best ways to do that is by hosting travel journalists or influencers on a press trip (aka FAM, for familiarization), which should be an integral part of your tourism PR and travel marketing program . Great press can inspire your target audience, position you as an expert in your niche and even help with your Google rankings ( tourism SEO ). So it makes sense to spend the time to get it right.

When to Host Travel Media

There’s not really a bad time to do a press trip, but some times are better than others. I generally recommend hosting travel writers in your low or shoulder season, when you have capacity and bookings are not as full. If you have space on a trip that’s already running, the extra cost of bringing a journalist along might be minimal, so it’s a really low-cost investment with potentially high long term returns. On the other hand, hosting a journalist in your peak season might mean turning away a paying guest, so unless they’re from a super high value media outlet, and absolutely can’t come at any other time, plan FAMs for low and shoulder season.

But if you’re hosting press in the offseason, can you still give a journalist a great experience to write about? If conditions are poor they might not be able to do a positive story on your business. So always try to find the right balance between available space and a great experience.

When you commit a spot to a writer, you should always try to honor it. Here’s why: they’ve likely gone out to their editors and gotten an assignment and that in itself is a lot of work. That editor has committed and put it on the schedule and maybe even made up a contract for the writer. If at the last minute you sell the spot, you’ll be burning bridges with that travel writer and if the writer is also working with your Destination Marketing Organisation (DMO), you’re burning bridges with them too. Don’t think of the money you may be losing by giving up a booking. Instead, see it as a powerful marketing investment in your business.

Working with Tourism Partners and DMOs

Are there complimentary businesses you typically work with? Accommodation partners, shuttle bus companies, restaurants or other non-direct competitors? If you’re organizing a travel press trip, get some of those partners on board. They can share in the expense and the resulting coverage.

And here’s the thing: if you’re trying to get financial support for your FAM from your DMO, they’re typically WAY more likely to support this kind of project than a press trip for just one tourism business. Show them you’re ‘promoting the destination’ not just your own tour operation. The way DMOs think is ‘a rising tide floats all boats’ so bring a bunch of operators together, create a cool itinerary and invite some topshelf travel media and they’d be crazy not to support it.

How Long Should a Travel Press Trip be?

If you’re hosting a writer on one of your scheduled trips, along with paying guests, it should be whatever the duration of your trip is, 5 days, seven days, whatever. If you’re doing a group media FAM, a good guideline is 3-4 days. This will give you enough time to show off your tour products, fit nicely into most people’s schedules and be less work and cost than a week-long tour.

Hosting a Group Media FAM

Sometimes it can make sense to host a travel media-only FAM with no paying guests. Here you’re bringing along a group of journalists from different media outlets and giving them all the same experience in order to get a significant amount of press. A group FAM can range from three or four writers up to ten or more. These can be very useful for new product launches and are often preferred by DMOs and tourism boards.

The advantages of group FAMs include tailoring your experience to press, not inconveniencing regular guests who may be less interested in some aspects of a press tour, and having travel experts along so you can ‘try out’ a new tour product and get feedback before paying guests arrive. Group FAMs can also build a lot of ‘buzz’ quickly and get your prospects excited to book your new offering.

Disadvantages of Group FAMs

If there’s one big drawback to running group travel press tours, it’s that one size does not fit all. By trying to simultaneously serve a bunch of different travel journalists, they may not get the most out of the FAM.

For this reason, I find many top tier journalists and publications simply won’t do group FAMs. They want their own stories and photos and don’t want a bunch of other writers essentially getting the same story as them. So if you’re running a group press trip, you may be getting a lower overall quality of media coming along.

Offer Customization for Travel Media on FAMs

If you’re running a group FAM, at least try to offer some different tour options for the writers. For example, split up the group one day, where half might do a food-focussed tour and the others might do a cultural tour. If you can appeal to their niche specialties, you’ll give them a lot more to work with. Here’s where knowing your media and what they specialize in can be really valuable.

Another thing that’s really important is to build downtime into your itinerary. Overcramming a travel journalist’s schedule will get you less, not more. Writers need time to ‘write’ so make sure they have a few hours of free time each day to take notes, get photos, interview staff, and do research.

Preparing Staff for Working with Travel Media

Before hosting a FAM, have a staff meeting and let them know how they’ll be working with media. Journalists should be treated the same as your regular guests. If you don’t offer a luxury VIP experience to guests, don’t offer that to travel writers either. Never show off by setting up unreal experiences that your normal guests will not be able to do. The last thing you want is people booking and expecting something you don’t offer.

Expect journalists to have other needs than your regular guests. If you’re hosting a photographer or videographer, they might want to set up shots at certain times of the day when the light is best. They may want staff to act as models in the photos too, or to interview them for their articles. Make sure staff are aware of this, and are inline with what you’re promoting. Fill them in on some of your talking points, and what you’re wanting to promote without sounding too canned. If you have any colorful guides or others on staff that could make good interview subjects, make sure to have them available.

The most important thing is to let your passion and terrific tourism experience show through and those travel media will have all the material they need to produce great stories for your tourism business.

Hiring a Tourism PR Agency

As you can see, there are a lot of things involved in putting together a FAM trip for travel media. Aventur Marketing is a tourism marketing and PR agency that has years of experience organizing successful FAM trips for tour operators and DMOs. If you need any help, Contact Us .

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Paid Campaigns with Tourism Boards | How to Land FAM Trips

How to start getting paid media trips as a travel blogger or travel writer. Learn how to land FAM trips and paid campaigns with tourism boards.

As a travel blogger getting invitations to media trips is an exciting step in a travel writing career. If you do the work and create value for tourism boards, the next step is landing paid media trips.

If you have wondered how to get paid to travel as a blogger, there are several ways including affiliate marketing , ad networks , freelance writing and the holy grail of paid fam trips. This podcast and blog post focuses on the best way to land media trips (also known as FAM trips or press trips) with tourism boards, hotels, tour companies, airlines, and more.

About this Podcast & Show Sponsor

This episode is part of the “ Travel Blogging Quick Tips Podcast Series “. Starting a travel blog isn’t easy and this is podcast series is here to help you navigate the way easier and faster! This episode will help you understand why you need a travel blogger media kit and what needs to be included.

Disclosure: Please know that ads are how we pay our bills and keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Break Into Travel Writing: A podcast and website designed to help you build a travel blog your readers love as well as help you achieve your goals as a travel writer or blogger. If you are new to this podcast, my goal with this podcast and website is to help travel bloggers write better, land more media trips, and learn how to monetize their websites with affiliate marketing. 

Episode Sponsor: To make trips relaxing and exciting for millions of people we bloggers are working hard — researching and creating content. With Travelpayouts , we can monetize all travel content. Travelpayouts is the largest affiliate platform designed for travel content creators. Travelpayouts helps to earn on all types of travel services including flight tickets, accommodation, tours and activities, car rentals, insurance, and many others by connecting over 100 trusted travel brands. Travelpayouts is where all travel content is monetized.

Sign up for Travelpayouts and use the promo code YEAR2022 for a $25 bonus commission on your first payout. 

How & When to Set Pricing for Paid Campaigns with Tourism Boards

How to Get Paid to Travel with FAM Trips (Also known as media trips or press trips)

Today’s show focuses on how & when to set pricing for paid campaigns with tourism boards also known as CVBs & DMOs. This crosses over into paid campaigns with not only destinations but cruises, tour companies, hotels, airlines, and more.

Listen to the Full Podcast !

It’s never too late to implement good travel blogging techniques and tactics.

What are FAM Trips?

A press trip is a way for a location (city, state or country) or tour company, hotel, or airline to get positive publicity. The location or business invests time and money to arrange for journalists, influencers and/or photographers to visit and help promote a destination, or event.

Definition & Description of a FAM Trip

A FAM tour stands for “familiarization” tour. A press trip or media trip are other names used for this. The destination, brand or business bring in travel media, social media influencers, tour operators and/or travel agents to a location to experience what it has to offer first-hand. The media would then share their experience through freelance articles, blog posts, social media posts, video or podcasts.

How to Get Paid to Travel with FAM Trip Tips

So, it turns out not too many bloggers, travel writers or destinations wanted to share tips on today’s topic. This is part of the Quick Tips series, where I take topic suggestions from bloggers and travel writers. I then reach out to my friends in the travel writing world, previous guests on this podcast, and this podcast audience to share one practical tip for the topic.

Today’s topic was about setting pricing with DMOs for paid (not bartered campaigns) and Susan from Genxtraveler.com requested the topic.

For this show, I not only asked my email list 2 or 3 times for tips, but I also reached out to my list of previous guests and previous travel writers and bloggers who had provided a tip for a previous show. I also shared the info and request on this podcast. I got a big goose egg. This is obviously a topic not many want to talk about or share tips about.

So, I did something different and reached out to about 50 or 60 tourism boards and asked if they had any tips or suggestions on the topic. I got nothing. Not one response.

I then reached out to about 20 bloggers and travel writers I consider more in the friend category than the acquaintance category and who I know regularly get paid media trips and got one brave travel writer who stepped forward to share a tip.

I’ve got to give Jon Bailey from 2DadsWithBaggage a huge thank you for stepping forward and sharing a tip. It doesn’t surprise me that Jon shared a tip though, as he was also my guest on episode 142 which was How to Pitch Brands, Destinations & PR .

Jon is one of the travel writers out there that I would say is truly an expert in the area of pitching and working with brands.

Jon’s Tip: Know Your Deliverables & Negotiate

Alexa Meisler, Jon Bailey & Diana Skara Becevello during Croatia Media Trip

Jon’s tip for getting paid campaigns with tourism boards is to list out your suggested deliverables in your pitch (x number of blog posts, x social shares broken down by platform, how many live social shares you would do onsite, etc.). Then give a package price for all of it, rather than a day rate and prices for each post, etc. Plus the hosted trip including airfare, of course! If they want to negotiate or come back with a lower number, start removing deliverables until you are comfortable with the deal.

Tip From Travel Writer, Jon Bailey of 2DadsWithBaggage Blog Niche: Family and LGBTQ travel Bio: 2DadsWithBaggage is the family lifestyle and travel platform from dads Jon and Triton and daughters Sophia and Ava. As a family, we love to share stories, tips, information and deals about people, places and things that we love. Jon is also a contributing writer for The Points Guy, San Diego Magazine and several others. Follow Jon on Facebook

Jon was also one of my guests from episode 147 which was entitled Loreto, Mexico Media Trip with Volaris Airlines

I’ve been lucky enough to go on three media trips with him; in addition to Loreto, Mexico, I also did a media trip to Cancun, Mexico , and a 3rd media trip to Croatia for the Christmas Markets and Chocolate festivals .

Additional FAM Trip Tips

Since this topic didn’t get a lot of submissions, I thought I’d share a few tips of my own.

A few disclaimers

• Always remember that a press trip of any kind is not a free vacation.
• Press trips, media trips, FAMs — all synonyms are a trade for content. Most of the time a destination or hotel or airline is covering the expenses of a trip in trade for coverage which could be an article in a publication you write for, an article on your personal website, a video, social media posting or a combination of several of these.
• Media trips come in all sizes. Some are a few days and some last a few weeks. Some media trips cover it all — meaning airfare, hotels, restaurants, excursions.

Types of Media Trips and What is Covered

• Some media trips don’t cover air, but 100% of everything once you hit the ground.
• Some media trips cover bits and pieces. Possibly, some of the meals aren’t covered.
• And then there are media trips where 100% of the trip is covered and you also get paid a day rate or fee to take the trip.

Do You Have What They Want?

The biggest thing to know is you need to have what they want. Or you have to be able to show them what you have will benefit their destination. This goes for both paid and non-paid press trips.

Research the Destination Before You Apply or Pitch for a Media Trip

Regardless of what trip you apply for, get invited to or pitch, do your homework on the location. Based on your audience, your niche, what makes your website unique, or what freelance stories you can place, make sure it aligns with the destination.

Many media trips have themes. Some of the themed ones I have been include:

• a girlfriends getaway in Kauai
• an adventure seeker media trip in Fort Lauderdale
• a Christmas Market Viking Cruise and
• a women’s walking adventure in Nova Scotia.

Some stories from these trips went to freelance outlets, while others were a better fit for my own 52 Perfect Days travel website .

It’s important to have integrity and to know you can write a story for the angle the destination or business wants coverage on. If the angle doesn’t fit, negotiate a new story idea or pass on the trip.

Research Before Pitching for a Media Trip

This brings me to your homework. You must research before pitching. Before you pitch a cruise line, a hotel, an airline, a destination or hotel do the following.

• check to see what social platforms they post most on.
• Check what they are sharing.
• Look at the photos to get a clue if they are targeting boomers, gen Xers or millennials, or gen z.
• If they have a blog on their website, check out the most recent posts. What are they promoting?
• Look at their specials or deals pages to see what they are pushing and highlighting.

If a destination you want to work with isn’t posting on social more than once a week or two, don’t pitch a IG takeover.

You are a Journalist, Right?

With a little sleuthing, you can figure out what they find important. You are a journalist, right? This is part of our job to dig deep and uncover the story!

Look at their blog, checked their social media channels, and get a sense of what types of stories they are trying to push.

What Do You Bring to the Table?

Understand and know your value. What can you bring to the table?

• Know your niche and audience.
• Get clear on who you are as a storyteller.
• Are you focused on adventure or family travel? Or are you focused on historic travel?
• Maybe you focus on a particular part of the world for your website.

Yes, this might mean you aren’t right for every media trip, but it will mean you are perfect for some. And there are a lot of trips and there is no way you could go on every media trip, even if you wanted to.

• Know your website traffic.
• Understand your social numbers and engagement.
• Where do you shine?
• Sell the pieces of your blogging biz or freelancer connections by pitching a combo of what you can offer and what you think the destination would value.

Is this video? Photography? Social media? Blog posts? Freelance articles? A combo of some or all?

Think about the destination or hotel or cruise who will be flying you in, putting you up in hotels, paying for your food, creating an itinerary for you as well as your transportation. Travel is an expensive investment for any company, brand or tourism board, so it’s extremely important that when you’re accepting fam trips you’re clear on the value you can bring to the table.

3 Point for Overview for Paid Media Trips

My original question for this topic was three parts:

1) What is 1 practical tip for setting pricing with DMOs for paid (not bartered campaigns) and I think Jon’s tip was perfect.

When can you start pitching for paid campaigns?

2) When in a blogging career it is appropriate to ask for paid campaigns?

My answer is when you have an engaged audience that will truly be interested in the location, trip, cruise, or hotel. This means a portion of your audience will be willing to read, share and potentially book based on your suggestions, your story, your posts or videos.

Ultimately, value for that brand is your endorsement. But endorsement goes much further when you have an audience that listens to your suggestions and Trusts your suggestions, which ultimately translates into that follower taking the next step.

How to Get Paid to Travel with FAM Trips

3) The 3rd part of this topic was for tips about what types of services can be “paid for”.

You can charge a day rate. You can also charge for extras. For example, for a media trip you can offer certain deliverables as part of a trip that covers expenses and charge for additional items.

For example, for a regular media trip you could include a certain number of blog posts and social.

You could charge for extra social, videos, takeovers, etc.

I know several bloggers who are really good photographers that sell photographs back to the location that they can’t use in their own content.

All of this should, of course, be clear upfront. The last thing you want to do is create an awkward situation or distrust with the PR person or tourism rep.

Travel Blogger Media Kit is a Must to Apply for Fam Trips

To make this leap, you need a great media kit and price sheet. So, if you didn’t catch the last episode, I’d pop back to episode 190 which is How to Create a travel Blogger Media Kit .

So, no magic bullet. Build your blog. Know your niche. Grow your audience. Engage with your audience on the platforms of your choice. With each of these steps you are building your value.

This isn’t just about a huge audience. If you have an audience, no matter what size, that is engaged and trusts you, it will be of value to a brand or destination.

Learn More about Sponsored Post Collaborations & Paid Media Trips with Jordan Campbell on episode 186.

This episode is all about Shifting from in-kind collaborations to sponsored post collaborations with brands & paid media trips. This podcast episode focuses on what to include in a travel blogger media kit, how to know if you are ready to pitch brands, advice for bloggers who think they are ready to pitch collaborations, what to provide when pitching a brand, getting past no and so much more!

Thank you to Susan for requesting today’s topic and Jon for being brave enough to step forward with some advice and tips on landing paid media trips.

And thank you for tuning in! I hope you have gained some real insight to set some goals for booking media trips and landing some paid media trips.

What Travel Writing or Blogging Topic Do You Want to Know More About? I’m currently taking requests for future quick tips shows . One’s just like today, but that usually have a lot more expert tips! If you’d like this series to continue, please take a few minutes to share with me one or more topics you’d like to learn about. This will help me gauge interest in keeping this series alive and what you want to know more about.

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Media Trip Sample Itineraries

First-timer itinerary.

If you've never been to the City by Nature, this itinerary will get you to all the iconic Minneapolis spots a first-timer should see in a three-day trip.

• Arrive in Minneapolis and check into your hote l .
• Lunch suggestion : Hell’s Kitchen , a Minneapolis original, famous for their Lemon-Ricotta Hotcakes, homemade PB and quirky sense of fun.
• Activity : Visit Minneapolis Sculpture Garden , view Spoonbridge & Cherry , Hahn/Cock and LOVE sculptures among 40 sculptures in the 11-acre park located near the Walker Art Center, which operates this free garden in coordination with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.
• Activity : Stroll over the Irene Hixon Whitney bridge to Loring Park (part of the Loring Park neighborhood ) and the Loring Greenway to Nicollet , where you'll find restaurants, shopping and public art.
• Dinner suggestion : Brit’s Pub , where you can catch a game of lawn bowling on the rooftop or a refined meal on a rooftop with a year-round retractable roof at Union Rooftop .
• Breakfast suggestion : Keys Café Foshay in the historic, 1929 Foshay Tower.
• Activity : Stroll Nicollet and stop to see the Mary Tyler Moore statue at 7th Street, then the Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center at 5th Street and the Minneapolis Central Library at 4th Street.
• Activity : Rent Nice Ride bikes (in season) or walk. Continue on to the Gateway area and see the Hennepin Avenue Bridge, Grainbelt Beer sign and cross the bridge to Nicollet Island. Check out the cobble-stone Main Street area and continue on to Water Power Park to see the top of the St. Anthony Falls. Continue on the path to the Stone Arch Bridge and cross the bridge with stops to read the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail signs and see the falls and Upper Mississippi Lock & Dam. Take a free tour of the Lock & Dam .
• Activity : Visit Mill City Museum ; there, go on the Flour Tower and watch the film, “Minneapolis in 19 Minutes Flat,” then learn more about the early days of the city’s flour milling history in the exhibits area and be sure to stop in the Baking Lab for a treat.
• Activity : Stop at the Guthrie Theater building (open daily to the public) to see architect Jean Nouvel’s Pritzker Prize-winning design with a stop on the Endless Bridge and up to 9th floor for the Amber Box's golden-hued views.
• Lunch suggestion and activity : Visit Minneapolis Institute of Art – be sure to check out the period rooms and the collections that span 5,000 years. You can grab a snack or lunch at Mia's Agra Culture Coffee Shop & Cafe before spending a couple hours taking in all this free museum has to offer.
• Dinner suggestion : Eat Street – choose from among the diverse Minneapolis dining options on Nicollet Avenue, like 50-year-old gem Black Forest Inn.
• Breakfast suggestion : The Freehouse , a great breakfast spot – and a brewery!
• Activity : Explore the North Loop to explore the many boutique shops, cafes and breweries in this growing, popular area.
• Activity and lunch suggestion : Visit the American Swedish Institute at the historic Turnblad mansion. Lunch at their Fika cafe in the Nelson Cultural Center to try traditional Swedish meatballs, Cardamom buns or Gravlax.
• Activity : In any season, the 53-foot Minnehaha Falls is eye-catching – whether frozen in winter or flowing and lush with green foliage in warmer months, when you can also find Wheel Fun Rentals bike surreys, kids on the playground and lines out the door of the Sea Salt Eatery in the pavilion. Hike down to the creek, stroll or bike around this park gem in the middle of urban Minneapolis.
• Dinner suggestion : Bryant Lake Bowl , where you can have a filling meal, a local pint and take in a show or a game of bowling -- all in one spot.

Return Traveler Itinerary

If you've been here before, welcome back; we've been expecting you (data shows visitors are likely to return once they've experienced Minneapolis). This sample itinerary will give you a deeper dive into the City by Nature in a three-day trip.

• Arrive in Minneapolis and check into your hotel .
• Lunch suggestion : Kieran’s Irish Pub is conveniently located downtown and boasts traditional Irish food and drinks, live Irish music and an exceptionally friendly staff. If you're here in the warmer months, enjoy the large patio.
• Activity : Visit Boom Island Park and see the lighthouse and the Minneapolis skyline from the riverfront as you explore the trails that lead you along the riverside and park. You can also tour this area on two wheels by renting a Nice Ride bike or taking a Magical History Tour on a Segway.
• Activity : Go on a brewery crawl in Northeast Minneapolis , lovingly called "Nordeast" by locals. You can walk between 612Brew , Bauhaus , and Sociable Cider Werks all within less than 10 minutes.
• Dinner suggestion : End the evening at nearby Young Joni’s and enjoy delicious cocktails, globally influenced dishes and wood-fired pizzas. Make a reservation, as Chef Ann Kim is a 2019 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: Midwest. End the night with a visit down the alley to the Back Bar; just look for the red light and have a nightcap in a spot reminiscent of your grandma's basement (in a good way).
• Breakfast/brunch suggestion : Barbette offers French cuisine using local, organic food in Uptown .
• Activity : Visit The Museum of Russian Art and experience the largest collection of Russian Realist paintings, as well as other examples of Russian art, history and culture.
• Activity : Whether you were a fan or not, a tour of Prince’s former home and studios at Paisley Park is not to be missed. Among the highlights are his private NPG Music Club, the studios where he produced his biggest hits, clothing and instruments he used and his private office and kitchen. (Note: This museum is 22 miles southwest of Minneapolis in Chanhassen, Minn., so you'll need transportation; and tickets must be arranged in advance.) While you're there, spend some time smelling the roses or hundreds of other flowers and trees at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum , just down the street. Stop by the Apple House in the fall to sample the wares from the place the Honeycrisp Apple was invented.
• Activity and dinner suggestion : Complete your tour of the area at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres where you can catch a Broadway musical, musical act or comedy show and enjoy a pre-show meal from the nation’s largest professional dinner theatre, which has been producing hits since 1968.
• Breakfast suggestion : Enjoy pastries and coffee or other morning treats at Café Alma , located in a historic building within Minneapolis’ first neighborhood, which also houses Hotel Alma , a seven-room boutique hotel, and Restaurant Alma , where James Beard Award-winning Chef Alex Roberts and his team provide authentic hospitality in a cozy setting.
• Activity and lunch suggestion : Venture to Midtown Global Marke t , an internationally-themed public market in South Minneapolis, where you can explore more than 20 different cultures at this international public market, which features 45 businesses offering mouth-watering tastes, locally made art and international entertainment (check the schedule in advance). Try everything from camel-meat burgers to pasta to Baba Ghannuj. Wash it all down with a pint from East Lake Brewery .
• Activity : Visit Minnesota’s only Smithsonian-Affiliate Museum, The Bakken Museum , and enjoy a world-renowned collection of books and artifacts, as well as multiple interactive galleries on invention, science, plant medicine, and more. Don't miss the medicinal garden.
• Activity : Tour U.S. Bank Stadium and learn all about the Minnesota Viking’s $1.3 billion home, which also hosted Super Bowl LII, 2019 NCAA Men's Final Four and four years of the summer X Games, among hundreds of events and shows since opening in 2016. Even those who aren’t football fans will enjoy this behind-the-scenes experience. Check tour schedules online and plan ahead.
• Dinner : Your last night downtown gives you many options for dining so check out the plentiful suggestions from our team of insiders and enjoy every bite.

Lifestyle Writer & Influencer Itinerary

This collection of Minneapolis favorites will fill your Instagram feed with crowd-pleasing beauty shots as you demonstrate how to enjoy the good life in Minneapolis.

• Activity : Head to the Weisman Art Museum perched high above the Mississippi River on the campus of the University of Minnesota, where you’ll first want to find the perfect vantage point for photos of the stunning metal façade, designed by Frank Gehry. Indoors you’ll find galleries holding more than 25,000 images, Native American Mimbres pottery and traditional Korean furniture.
• Dinner suggestion: Hai Hai in Northeast Minneapolis will transport you to Southeast Asia with tasty and colorful dishes of modern Vietnamese street food from James Beard Award finalist Chef Christina Nguyen. Hai Hai’s tropical craft cocktails are Insta-ready all the time but are perhaps most fun when the patio is open and you can snatch a seat on the tiny plastic stools that will feel just like you’re on the streets of Saigon.
• Dessert option: Save some room: Across the street from Hai Hai, Crepe & Spoon offers a delicious array of vegan ice creams and crepes.
• Activity: Catch a show on one of the Guthrie Theate r ’s three stages and be sure to arrive early enough to enjoy the views from the Endless Bridge and Amber Box. The 2006 Jean Nouvel building’s deep blue exterior mirror the mood of the river below and the former industrial neighborhood that’s now a posh place to be.
• Activity: Take an early morning photo walk or jog along Mississippi riverfront at Mill Ruins Park and the Stone Arch Bridge , where you’ll spy the best views of St. Anthony Falls and the city skyline rises to make dramatic backdrops for your selfies. (Also excellent spot for a “golden hour” shoot.)
• Breakfast suggestion and shopping: In the mood for a cold brew, espresso or matcha? Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is a colorful and trendy staple in the North Loop. It's the ultimate spot for picture-perfect drinks and breakfast bites that taste as good as they look. Nearby, you'll find D.NOLO (Destination North Loop), a co-op shopping experience featuring products from cutting-edge retailers. From there, you’ll find a nearly endless string of haute boutiques as you roam the North Loop’s trendy streets.
• Activity: The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a Minneapolis park adjacent to the Walker Art Center, with more than 40 artworks displayed across 11 beautiful acres. The most famous sculpture, the Spoonbridge and Cherry (Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen), serves as its centerpiece, but the big blue rooster (Katharina Fritsch’s Hahn/Cock ) is a close second for photographs backed by the magnificent view of the downtown skyline and Basilica of St. Mary , the first basilica in the nation.
• Dinner suggestion: Cross the brightly hued Irene Hixon Whitney Bridge over Hennepin Avenue to Loring Park , where you can stroll while taking in more art and nature. Then grab a table at Café and Bar Lurcat for sophisticated American comfort food with a view.
• Breakfast (or anytime) suggestion: The popular, aesthetically-pleasing Glam Doll Donuts features doughs, fillings and icings prepared in-house from scratch in the company of a photo booth, a patio and a rotating collection of local artwork in the Eat Street location (a second shop is found in Northeast Minneapolis).
• Activity: See a lot in a short time by going on an expert-led sight-seeing tour from Experience the Twin Cities or join in on any number of food, historical, music, bike, boat, Segway an walking tours available in Minneapolis. Some are seasonal, so check websites and plan ahead.
• Lunch suggestion: Featuring street foods from around the world, World Street Kitchen tastes range from Asian-inspired rice bowls to falafel burgers.

History Buff Itinerary

If you majored in history, geek out over old stuff or want to know who lives here and why Minneapolis exists, you can follow this itinerary to get all this and more. Go to these spots in any order, in a day or over several.

• American Swedish Institute is housed in a 33-room mansion featuring vibrant exhibits and programs about the Swedish culture. You can even nosh on Swedish meatballs and smorgasboard.
• The Bakken Museum will have you convinced that all Minneapolis museums are in mansions after you hit these first two spots. The Bakken is the only Smithsonian affiliate museum in Minnesota and features a world-renowned collection of books and artifacts, multiple galleries focusing on the wonders of invention and more.
• Bell Museum has been Minnesota's official natural history museum for over a century, preserving and interpreting the state's rich natural history. In it's new home (see, not a mansion) on the University of Minnesota's Saint Paul campus, you'll also find a planetarium, a woolly mammoth and creatures great and small.
• Hennepin History Museum preserves Hennepin County's history and shares it through engaging exhibits and programs in an historic home in the Washburn-Fair Oaks Historic District.
• Mill City Museum tells the story of the origins of Minneapolis in just 19 minutes flat, and takes you up and down an actual grain elevator where you'll learn how flour fueled the growth of the city. One of the best views of the Mississippi Riverfront can be had on the museum's observation deck. (The Minnesota Historical Society also runs the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul and Fort Snelling , and you can add those tours on to this busy schedule if you've got the time.)

Budget Itinerary

When you're careful with your spending, you can still find a lot to do in Minneapolis where free and inexpensive activities are our specialty. Many of the above itineraries would also fit the bill, or you can substitute any of those activities into this one to create your perfect trip.

• Hotels: You’ll find the best deals off-season (i.e., winter) or on weekends in Minneapolis. Hotel options are many – look for your stay here .
• Breakfast suggestion : In Dinkytown check out Al’s Breakfast , a James Beard America’s Classics winner in 2004, with made-from-scratch breakfast at only a 14-seat counter. They serve large portions for a small price but make sure you don’t bring a large group because of the limited seating.
• Activity : Stroll down Minneapolis’ downtown pedestrian thoroughfare, Nicollet , using these free audio tours , through the Loring Greenway to Loring Park and across the Whitney bridge to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden , while soaking up free art from locals and well-known artists all along the way. Must-stop spots: Mary Tyler Moore statue, Berger Fountain and Hahn/Cock.
• Activity : Take in the sights of animals like giraffes and sloths, and tropical plants, a seasonal Sunken Garden and outdoor Japanese Peace Garden at the Como Zoo and Conservatory in Saint Paul, where admission is free (but donations gratefully accepted). Bring a picnic or grab a bite at the on-site café.
• Dinner Suggestion : Head to Keg & Case Market , where you can have your choice of tasty food from the market’s many vendors while browsing local maker’s wares.
• Activity : Catch the "golden hour" when you stroll across the Stone Arch Bridge and take in the Minneapolis skyline views, Saint Anthony Falls and Water Power Park, where you can get close to the top of the falls for a rare look.
• Breakfast Suggestion : Go to Hell’s Kitchen for all-day breakfast with their extensive menu (or later, happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m.). They also have a kid’s menu and large appetizers ready to share.
• Activity : Take a free, self-guided tour (or free pre-arranged group tours) at Lakewood Cemetery , where more than 150 years of Minneapolis history includes the gravesites of notables like Tiny Tim, Hubert H. Humphrey and Paul Wellstone, among the many leaders of the industries that made Minneapolis what it is today.
• Lunch Suggestion : Try one of many places to eat along Eat Street or other local favorites .
• Activity : Minneapolis is one of the top cities in the nation for its parks -- and one of the jewels in the crown is Chain of Lakes Park , which includes five of the city's 22 lakes: Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun), Harriet, Lake of the Isles, Cedar and Brownie, with connected parkways, waterways and all ways of fun including free performances in the summer, inexpensive boat and bike rentals and plenty of benches to watch the scene for free.
• Dinner Suggestion : Check out the insider list of cheap eats from Meet Minneapolis that includes Happy Hour deals.
• Evening Activity : Grab a Green Line METRO train and then watch the sunset at Prospect Park Water Tower , where a skyline view is worth the walk up the hill to the famous “Witch’s Hat” Water Tower. Once a year, the public can even go up the stairs inside the tower for a higher perch. After, head to Surly Brewing Co. where there’s always something fun happening in the Beer Garden or on their outdoor patio.

Uptown Minneapolis Itinerary

Hotel Suggestion: Moxy Minneapolis Uptown is the only hotel in the area, but this boutique hotel with the social heart of a hostel is an excellent home-away-from-home while you’re visiting Uptown. There’s a music-themed lobby with an awesome record room and guitars in most rooms. This unique hotel also has lounge spaces, a 24-hour fitness area, a top floor party room, and a sleek bar that’s always open.

• Breakfast Suggestion: Although they’re open all day, The Lynhall has delicious breakfast food, pastries and coffee. It’s a market-inspired restaurant, and they also teach cooking classes.
• Activity Suggestion: Uptown is home to many famous murals, and the best way to check them out is by bike. Rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals and check out all the cool art around the area, including the Prince mural .
• Lunch Suggestion: If your group has varying tastes, stop by World Street Kitchen . This open kitchen food truck/restaurant serves up street food from across the globe.
• Activity Suggestion: Shop ‘til you drop at the many stores located all around Uptown. Whether you’re into thrifting or high-end fashion, unique art and home décor or kitchen supplies, it’s guaranteed you’ll find a shop that fits your style. Or, for shopping and dining in one place, check out Seven Points (formerly Calhoun Square).
• Dinner Suggestion: Named after James Beard award-winning chef Ann Kim, Kim's blends bold Korean flavors with Midwestern ingredients. After dinner, head to the cozy Bronto Bar underneath the restaurant for a nightcap.
• Activity Suggestion: The Jungle Theater puts on five award-winning productions every year. If improv is more your style, check out HUGE Improv Theater which hosts comedy improv shows every day of the week.
• Breakfast/Activity Suggestion: Bryant Lake Bowl serves up delicious breakfast/brunch until 3 p.m. every weekend. Enjoy a delicious meal, and afterwards enjoy a few rounds of bowling at the attached bowling alley.
• Lunch/Activity Suggestion: The Chain of Lakes is fun during every season. Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun) is the closest to Uptown, and there you can hike the entire 3.4 miles, rent kayaks or paddleboards, snowshoe or whatever mode of transport your heart desires (and season dictates). There are plenty of places for a picnic, and lots of takeout options nearby.
• Activity Suggestion: If you’re an indie, foreign, art-house film lover, be sure to catch a movie at the Lagoon Cinema . Eclectic or a little more mainstream, shows here are not what you’ll find at the mall.
• Dinner Suggestion: For a variety of beers, a rooftop with great views, unique decorations, and great bar food, check out LynLake Brewery .
• Activity Suggestion: Uptown is known for its hip bar scene, so be sure to check a few out while you’re here. Uptown Tavern and The Pourhouse are all within walking distance of each other and boast happy hour deals and rooftop views during the summer. If you're more of a wine person, head to the Troubadour Wine Bar to sip wine, graze on cheese and listen to live music.

Black-Owned Minneapolis Itinerary

Minneapolis is home to a thriving Black community, with numerous artists, business owners and entrepreneurs. Here's your guide on how to support local Black-owned businesses in Minneapolis in a two-day itinerary.

• Breakfast Suggestion: Start your mornings off right with grabbing breakfast at Breaking Bread Café, which was founded by Appetite for Change. Breaking Bread Café was created to ensure there was a place for people to come together and enjoy delicious food made from scratch. They offer classic soul foods, like shrimp & grits and chicken & waffles.
• Activity: Next, stop by the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum, which opened in 2018. The MAAHMG is a community gathering place for people to celebrate Black history and preserve Black achievements, contributions and experiences in Minnesota.
• Activity: Visit the Strive + Sistah Co-op in IDS Center, a quaint shop and bookstore. This shop offers a variety of different patterns and accessories, as well as books written solely by Black authors, ranging from memoirs to children books.
• Lunch Suggestion: Head to the North Loop and get lunch at Soul Bowl, which was created in 2017 to change the narrative and bring people together to celebrate culture and community. Located within Graze Provisions + Libations food hall, where you can build your ideal bowl, starting with a base, veggie or meat and a sauce.
• Activity: Shop until you drop at D. NOLO, one of the fastest growing co-ops in the Midwest. It offers stylish clothing and a great shopping experience with a diverse selection of clothing, shoes, accessories and home furnishings. Also swing by Queen Anna's House of Fashion, a lifestyle boutique that focuses on offering socially conscious brands from small designers and independent fashion houses.
• Activity: Treat yourself to a little spa day at Taylor'd Skin & Esthetic Bar. With a friendly environment and wonderful service, all you have to do is relax and enjoy yourself.
• Dinner Suggestion: Cobble Social House , which is a trendy lounge located in the North Loop neighborhood. Here, you can consume their inventive cuisine and culturally inspired provisions.
• Breakfast Suggestion: Start your morning off with breakfast at the Breakfast Bar of Minnesota. This Southern-inspired comfort food provides customers with a ‘soulful’ experience, from the food to the dining experience.
• Activity: Next, reserve your spot to tour the estate of iconic Minnesota superstar Prince, and peek into how he worked and lived at Paisley Park. This museum located southwest of Minneapolis, is a must for any Prince–or music–fan. Book one of their three tours, starting with The Paisley Experience, followed by their VIP Experience, and lastly their Ultimate Experience, which includes the most access to the estate. Check out Paisley's calendar for other events.
• Lunch Suggestion: Once you make it back to the city, stop by Pimento Jamaican Kitchen, an authentic Jamaican Street food restaurant on Eat Street. Owner, Tomme Beevas, received a 2021 James Beard Award and won Food Court Wars on the Food Network.
• Activity: The Twin Cities has a vibrant arts scene, especially when it comes to performing arts. Check out a show at Capri Theater a place full of rich history. Alternatively, check out the Penumbra Theatre. Penumbra is dedicated to producing thought provoking and relevant art through the lens of the African American experience.
• Dinner Suggestion: End the night with some dinner at STEPCHLD, Ethiopian-inspired cuisine, with inspiration from all over the world. Not only is their food tasty, but their drink selection is also impressive.

BIPOC-Owned Minneapolis Itinerary

Minneapolis is home to people from around the globe and you can experience their diverse taste and products throughout the city in this two-day itinerary.

• Start your morning off by getting your daily cup of coffee at MAPPS Coffee and Tea. They sell globally sourced ingredients with tastes from around the world, from Brazil to Ethiopia! Located in the Midtown Global Market.
• Activity: Stay and explore the Midtown Global Market , a place where culture and shopping intersect. The Global Market is home to 45 businesses, ranging from restaurants, clothing and accessories from all around the world. Stroll around the market and experience a vibrant world of music, arts and craft and food from places like Morocco, East Africa, Venezuela and many more.
• Lunch Suggestion: Once you’re done shopping, grab lunch from any of the vendors or shops you pass by!
• Dessert Suggestion: Right down the street is a quaint ice cream shop called La Michoacán Purepecha . They offer authentic Michoacán delicacies, from a large selection of popsicles, exclusive yogurts and ice creams, as well as a unique experience.
• Activity: Don't miss the Somali Museum of Minnesota . Minnesota has the largest Somali population outside of Somalia. This is the first and only Somali museum in the world. The Somali Museum showcases almost 700 pieces of traditional art and artifacts collected from Somalia. Make sure to check online or call ahead.
• Dinner Suggestion: A short walk from the museum is an authentic Mexican restaurant called Taqueria Los Ocampo . This family restaurant has served in the community since 2003. It’s equipped with a bar, great food and wonderful vibes!
• Activity: End the night with a show at the Theater Mu, the second largest Asian American theater company in the United States. Theater Mu is committed to uplifting Asian Americans in the productions they put on, showcasing talented actors and writers.
• Breakfast Suggestion: Start your day with breakfast at Sammy’s Avenue Eatery , where the welcoming community and smiling faces only adds to the delicious food. Get a tasty breakfast sandwich at a place that values community and good deeds.
• Activity: Travel across the bridge to reach Roseline’s Place , which promotes sustainable business practices with a large selection of creative candles (which comes in a recycled candle holders), candle accessories and home goods. Roseline created this brand to mesh her passions, community and candles, and she offers candle making classes as well.
• Lunch Suggestion: Right down the street is Holy Land , a bakery, restaurant and grocery store rolled into one. With a large selection of Middle Eastern and American foods, like their kebabs, cheeseburgers and gyro wraps, it’s almost impossible not to love the mixture of tasteful flavors.
• Activity: Also in Northeast Minneapolis is the NE Sculpture Gallery , a collection of artworks from various artists of different backgrounds. Founded by 21 people, their goal is to support local artists and strengthen their community.
• Dinner Suggestion: A couple of blocks over is Hai Hai , an award-winning Southeast Asian Street food restaurant and bar. The owner, Christina Nguyen, a 2023 James Beard Best Chef Midwest nominee, was inspired by her favorite foods she grew up eating.
• Dinner Suggestion: Alternatively, get a reservation at Young Joni , an award-winning restaurant owned by Chef Ann Kim, the 2019 James Beard Best Chef Midwest winner and has appeared on the Netflix show Chef's Table: Pizza. The menu includes a diverse array of dishes as well as traditional woodfire pizzas try out their Korean BBQ pizza (beef short ribs, mozzarella, scallion, arugula, sesame soy chili vinaigrette) or their Perfect Pickle Pie (fermented pickles, mozzarella, fontina, smoked onions, chili, ranch, potato chips and dill). Make sure to stop by their speakeasy located down the alley alongside the restaurant. Keep an eye out for the red light in the alley, when it's on, the bar is open.
• Activity: Lastly, stop by the Cedar Cultural Center , a place where you can hear music from all over the world. The Cedar promotes intercultural appreciation through the use of art and music of all genres.

Two-Day Winter Itinerary

Minneapolis is known for its winters but perhaps not for the right reasons. The beauty of winter – the snow-covered trees, frozen lakes and festive look of a world covered in fresh fallen snow—and the cozy atmosphere of fires, warm beverages and hearty meals make for a unique storytelling opportunity when you embrace all a Minneapolis winter offers. Day One

• Breakfast Suggestion: Start your morning off by getting breakfast at Hen House Eatery , a restaurant that specializes in breakfast food, serving countless options like omelets, pancakes, avocado toast and many more. Hen House Eatery is a place where you can enjoy a homemade meal cooked with heart and soul and served with a splash of creativity in the heart of downtown.
• Activity: Next, head to Theodore Wirth Regional Park , the largest park in the Minneapolis Park system with 975 total acres. Here, you can see the skyline of Minneapolis while also being immersed in nature. Start at the Trailhead, a four-season adventure hub where you can eat, relax and rent necessary equipment. The park offers countless activities to participate in, such as snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledding/tubing. "Theo Wirth" also has cross-country skiing with almost 14 miles of groomed trails for beginners, intermediate and advanced skillsets.
• Lunch Suggestion: Once you build up an appetite, swing by the Black Sheep Coal Fired Pizza , a cozy and welcoming restaurant in the North Loop whose pizzas come from coal-fired ovens, giving them a crispy crust and smoky flavor.
• Lunch Suggestion: Or alternatively, stop by the Red Rabbit , an authentic Italian restaurant, which features a large range of delicious dishes including fresh pasta, salads and wood-fired pizza made with locally sourced ingredients.
• Activity: Stokeyard Outfitters sauna experience provides a warm and intimate warm-up from the chilly weather. The wood-fired heat creates a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. They offer guided sessions at Hewing Hotel’s rooftop, where you can also catch a view of the Minneapolis skyline.
• Dinner Suggestion: An active day demands a meal at the Butcher’s Tale , a premium steakhouse that specializes in house-smoked meats, hand-crafted sausages and fresh seafood. The intimate and eclectic space features warm lighting and comfortable seating.
• Activity: Known for world-class productions and stunning architecture, the Guthrie Theater has three stages of entertainment, a couple of restaurants and a fun gift shop! This Pritzker Prize-winning designed building by Jean Nouvel sits on the bank of the Mississippi River with views of the riverfront and downtown, and is open to the public, with or without a ticket.
• Breakfast Suggestion: Berry Sweet Kitchen is known for their delectable desserts and baked goods, but they also offer a variety of breakfast options that are worth trying like their sweet French toast and pancakes to savory breakfast tacos and sandwiches. They also serve gluten-free and vegan options.
• Activity: During the winter, the waterfall at Minnehaha Falls often freezes, creating a stunning natural ice sculpture. This is a unique sight that you won’t often see in the middle of a city. After viewing the waterfall, take a winter hike and admire the beautiful scenery.
• Lunch Suggestion: Cardamom is known for its exceptional cuisine that blends traditional Mediterranean flavors with modern techniques. The menu is extensive, featuring a range of vegetarian, vegan and meat dishes like lamb burger, fried eggplant schnitzel and Greek salad.
• Lunch Suggestion: The Lotus offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine that is both flavorful and healthy. From classic noodle dishes like pho, which is great for a winter day, to fresh spring rolls and banh mi sandwiches.
• Activity: There’s no shortage of ice-skating rinks in “the state of hockey.” Parade Ice Garden offers an indoor skating rink, equipped with skate rentals. There are designated free skating times, so make sure to check ahead of time! (Family movie buffs may recall it from the original "Mighty Ducks" films.)
• Activity: The Walker Art Center provides a perfect indoor destination to explore contemporary art, attend exhibits and participate in cultural programs. Check their calendar for performances and changing exhibitions. Score a selfie at the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden across the street before you go.
• Dinner Suggestion: The cozy Aster Café is known for its beautiful views on the bank of the Mississippi River and its live music, which takes place most nights of the week. Their menu is filled with seasonal, locally sourced food like flatbread pizzas, soups and pastas.
• Activity: Sociable Cider Werks offers countless fun activities that pair well with their beverages. Go ice skating on their outdoor ice rink and, after, warm up by their firepits while eating some delicious food from the Sammy’s Avenue Eatery food truck, weather permitting.
• Activity: Or end your night off at Earl Giles , a distillery that is known for its high-quality spirits and elixirs. This refurbished warehouse is equipped with large windows, comfortable seating and countless living plants that surround you with a lush, green environment to contrast to the cool outdoors. They also serve THC-cocktails, low proof beverages and non-alcoholic drinks for the designated drivers.

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IFWTWA Media Trip Summaries & Placements

IFWTWA offers media trip opportunities to our professional writer and content creator members each year. These events span various North American and International locations and occur a minimum of four times per year. Members submit their applications for vetting by the Association media trips committee. Ultimately, it’s the destination hosts who decide which member to accept for a given trip.

Our media trips committee works closely with our Associate members and other destination management hosts (DMOs) to craft visits designed to give our members maximum exposure to notable food, wine and travel activities and topics awaiting their storytelling skill sets. In turn, their stories promote tourism and provide valuable ROI for the hosts in America and around the world.

Conference Trips 2023

• IFWTWA Media Trip: Surrey, BC
• IFWTWA Media Trip: Greater Victoria, BC
• The San Francisco Peninsula Bayside
• The San Francisco Peninsula Coastside
• Palm Springs
• West Hollywood
• Hacienda Del Mar Resort, Cabo
• Greenville, SC
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Northern Greece
• Memphis, Tennessee
• Thunder Bay, Canada
• Lafayette, Louisiana

Conference Trips 2022

• Florida – Bradenton Gulf Islands
• Florida – Punta Gorda / Englewood Beach
• Florida – Orlando
• Florida – St. Petersburg / Clearwater / Tarpon Springs
• Florida – Discover the Treasures of Tampa Bay
• Florida – Sarasota County
• Florida – Greater Fort Lauderdale
• 2022: “Ahlan wa Sahlan fi al Urdun!” – Welcome to Jordan
• Illinois / Iowa ~ Visit Quad Cities
• Washington ~ Visit the Beautiful Kitsap Peninsula region
• Pennsylvania ~ York Farm-to-Table Culinary Tour
• Arizona ~ Yuma
• Arizona ~ Flagstaff
• Colorado ~ Discover Grand County
• Florida ~ St. Augustine / Ponte Vedra
• Alabama ~ Birmingham
• Washington ~ Seattle & the Olympic Peninsula
• Halkidiki and Northern Greece ~ Tailor-made Individual Press Trips
• Santa Fe ~ IFWTWA Conference
• Taos ~ Taos de la Tierra
• SB Albuquerque ~ Ghost Ranch—Home of Georgia O’Keeffe
• Santa Fe ~ Native Flavors of Santa Fe
• Albuquerque ~ Albuquerque Soars!
• Maine ~ Discover Magnificent Maine
• Georgia ~ Get Excited About Experiencing Atlanta
• California ~ Tri-Valley FAM Tour
• Oregon ~ Sip and Savor in the Willamette Valley this Winter
• Louisiana ~ Lafayette—Cajun & Beyond Media Trip
• Vermont ~ Vermont Cities, Mountains & Lakes
• North Carolina ~ The Outer Banks Media Trip
• Whidbey Island ~ IFWTWA Conference
• Orcas Island ~ Post-Conference Media Trip
• Anacortes ~ Pre-Conference Media Trip
• Camano Island ~ Pre-Conference Media Trip
• Olympia ~ Pre-Conference Media Trip
• San Juan Islands ~ Pre-Conference Media Trip
• Halkidiki ~ Stress Free Media Trips
• Alabama ~ Pure Birmingham: Purely Eccentric
• Georgia ~ Roswell: Modern Spirit. Southern Soul.
• Washington ~ Whidbey, Camano, San Juan and Orcas Islands
• Jordan ~ Culinary and Cultural Tour

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Forever Dreaming Press Trip Immerses Global Travel Media in California Tourism

By Molly Bloss 05/12/2022

• Tune in: All-new Visit California TV spots premiere in U.S. and Canada Print
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Hosted Media Outlets

• The Globe and Mail, IN Magazine, Travelier (Canada)
• TravelLife Magazine (Canada)
• Luxe Tentations (France)
• Obsession Luxe (France)
• Funke Media Group (Germany)
• Nürnberger Presse (Germany)
• Süddeutsche Zeitung (Germany)
• El Heraldo (Mexico)
• El Universal (Mexico)
• City AM, LoveEXPLORING (U.K.)
• The Sun (U.K.)
• TripSavvy (U.S.)

To create a more intimate trip for the journalists, half were flown into San Francisco and half into Los Angeles, with the two groups taking road trips that crossed paths in San Luis Obispo County for a combined group event. The split itineraries allowed for significantly more personal time to explore travel themes, which leads to more relevant and thorough coverage. The journalists visited Monterey County , Los Angeles , San Luis Obispo County / Paso Robles , Santa Barbara and San Francisco . All international markets of were represented in each itinerary, ensuring even coverage of businesses and destinations.

The trip immersed journalists in a wide range of tourism experiences, from e-bike   adventures to VIP museum tours or iconic California fast food like In-N-Out to dinners at local establishments like the historic Stokes Adobe in Monterey. The itinerary also wove between experiences that appeal to more adventurous international audience — Santa Barbara’s “ Funk Zone ” arts district — and classics like the Warner Bros. Studio Tour , a Fogcutter Tour of Alcatraz and a Dodger’s game.  The combined group gathered at the dazzling Sensorio Field of Lights in Paso Robles, a display of more than 17,000 illuminated wine bottles. 

Before their trips, Visit California educated the journalists about the state’s Responsible Travel Code in an effort to encourage and inspire sustainable travel.

• FAMs and Press Trips

Related Articles

Reuniting for the Los Angeles Media Event

By Kristen Bonilla 11/05/2021

• In-State Marketing
• Los Angeles County

International Press Trips Return to California

By Nick Leonti 01/26/2022

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TravMedia is now established in 9 countries - Australia, United Kingdom, United States, China, Singapore, Germany, France, Italy, and Brazil - and connects over 45,000 travel professionals including 25,000 editors, journalists and influencers in all corners of the world.

TravMedia operates sister company Food4Media.  Food4Media   distributes food-related press releases, videos and information on the food industry.

TravMedia also pioneered the technology that powers   Property4Media.com   and   Homes4Media.com .

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Travmedia covers all elements of the travel industry including:, just some of the media titles using travmedia, what our members say.

"TravMedia has established itself as part of the travel PR DNA in the UK. Each day brings us valuable opportunities to gain coverage, and the media networking events are a vital way for us to touch base with lots of influential travel journalists."

"TravMedia is the Brighter choice! Our teams use the site to launch campaigns, build networks and respond to journalists’ needs. The TravMedia team is great to work with – we’re contented customers!"

"Travmedia is an invaluable resource for anyone in the travel industry. The platform allows access to a whole range of journalists and publications, and the social events provide fantastic networking opportunities. We wouldn’t be without it!"

"TravMedia has been fantastic, helping us build our media relationships and spread the word about responsible tourism. The events have also been very positive and add to a feeling of a real life ‘TravMedia community’."

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"TravMedia is an invaluable resource for anyone in the travel industry, providing quick access to a large database of journalists and publications. We use the site daily to launch campaigns and respond to journalists’ needs."

"TravMedia is the easiest way to ensure our press releases reach the most influential travel media around the world and is an essential part of our global media strategy. I have attended numerous global network events with TravMedia and know of no better way to connect with quality media to pitch story ideas and ensure our hotels are part of their editorial plans."

"TravMedia’s Journalist Alert facility has proved very useful. I have also found all of the MediaPlace events useful and have yet to end the night without getting at least one or two good stories. For me, it is the only place to go when I need to contact travel PRs!"

"TravMedia is an essential tool for us to send out our press releases and newsletters. It’s easy to use and reaches press far wider than our own mailing list. We strongly recommend it."

"We joined TravMedia almost from its very start. I credit Travmedia with securing Canada more content than we had prior to its existence."

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"TravMedia has been an invaluable service for me as a digital travel editor. I've sourced images, assistance for press trips, weekly travel deals and even writers. I've formed lasting relationships with PRs and tourist boards, which have been key to my success in the industry. "

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Apr. 9, 2024

A decade of discovery: 10 years of rice’s archives of the impossible.

It all started with a conversation during a ride to the airport in December 2014. Jeffrey Kripal , Rice University’s J. Newton Rayzor Professor of Religion, was wrapping up a trip to Berkeley, California, where he’d spent time with Jacques Vallée . Vallée, a French-born American astronomer and computer scientist whose work inspired Steven Spielberg’s “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” was concerned about the potential loss or commercialization of his research.

“He asked me if I could help him place his files and correspondence in a university archive of some kind,” Kripal said. “I immediately thought, ‘I wonder if Rice can do this?’”

Kripal, who’d released “Authors of the Impossible” in 2010, worked with Rice’s special collections director to create and host the Archives of the Impossible , a collection of accounts detailing the supernatural.

“The basic idea is that these are things that aren’t supposed to happen but do,” Kripal said. “Human beings are experiencing these impossible things, and they’ve been reporting them for as far back in history as we can see.”

Rice’s connection to space exploration, notably its historical ties to NASA , made it an apt home for Vallée’s archives, fitting within the university’s legacy of scientific inquiry and discovery. After years of negotiations, Vallée visited Rice to give a lecture and formally begin the donation.

Inspired by this successful collaboration, Kripal extended a similar invitation to Whitley Strieber , a renowned horror and science-fiction writer known for his groundbreaking work on abduction experiences, including the widely read “Communion.” Strieber’s extensive collection, along with contributions from physicist Ed May , added to the growing Archives of the Impossible.

“Everyone in this field who learned about the archives wanted to donate their life’s work to it,” Kripal said. “It’s been a kind of embarrassment of riches.”

Now approaching 10 years since that airport dropoff, the archives consist of 15 separate collections, one of the most recent coming from John E. Mack , a Harvard Medical School psychiatrist who investigated roughly 100 cases of alien abduction, conducting hundreds of hours of interviews. His gift to the archives consisted of 150 boxes, which translates into 450 linear feet of records and files.

“Every collection we accept represents hundreds of hours for archivists along with delivery and storage,” Kripal said.

That’s why he works so closely with Amanda Focke, Rice’s head of special collections at the Woodson Research Center (WRC).

“We do a lot of collecting of archival materials that support faculty interest,” Focke said, adding that Rice undergraduate and graduate students have helped process the archives’ gifts from Day 1. “The archives contain many thousands of documents in the form of books, journals, photographs, slides, reports, meeting notes and letters.”

After working with the WRC and Kripal for several years to transfer and digitize the Mack donation, Karin Austin officially joined Rice as the project manager of the archives in April 2024.

Austin worked with Mack in his research, eventually becoming his personal assistant. After his accidental death in 2004, she played a pivotal role in assisting his family with the closing of his estate, which involved managing various projects related to the administration of his personal affairs.

“Archives of the Impossible is presently undertaking a two-year meta-data research study in collaboration with the John Mack Institute,” Austin said. “We will anonymize and analyze various archival collections related to ‘alien abduction,’ a phenomenon that peaked in the latter decades of the 20th century. This study will be the first of its kind in terms of methodology, scope and scale.”

Austin added that the study will be undertaken with broad interdisciplinary oversight and the intention to produce whitepapers that offer new insight into a phenomenon that has been largely ignored or misunderstood by science and academia for the past 30 years.

“The study is significant and some might say long overdue,” Austin said. “I couldn’t be happier for the opportunity to work with Jeff Kripal, Amanda Focke and a number of admirably dedicated Rice students on this project. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an honor.”

They’ve also inspired two international Archives of the Impossible conferences hosted at Rice, lauded by Dean of Humanities Kathleen Canning as “the largest, most ambitious and most transgressive in its engagement with these authors and Archives of the Impossible that our school has probably ever hosted.” Plans for a third conference in 2025 are currently in the works.

The archives involve the whole university, Kripal pointed out. They sit in the Department of Religion , but cases involve discussions of physics, philosophy, genetics, anthropology, history, art, astronomy and biology.

“To study the impossible is to study everything,” Kripal said.

As the archival process continues, Kripal said he and his team eagerly anticipate welcoming scholars and students to delve into these intriguing materials in search of truth and understanding.

“The archives are open for research,” Focke said. “Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, there’s something in these archives that will spark your imagination.”

That may be why they’ve been such a draw to filmmakers. Half a dozen production crews have visited the archives at Rice over the past few years. They’ve been joined by people from all over the world.

“Some people are just curious. Some people are scholars in different fields, such as psychology, physics or art,” Focke said, adding that others are people who experienced paranormal phenomena themselves. “They come to the archives because they want to connect with them.”

Impossible events, Kripal explained, happen far more often than we believe.

“They are extremely common, and we only think that they’re rare because our culture suppresses them and says that they don’t happen when they do,” he said. “Our collections are very much around human witnesses or human experiences.”

Those experiences, now documented and secured in the archives, will help inform future generations about the impossible.

“The goal of it is to be intergenerational. Other generations will follow us and hopefully they’ll use this material in a creative way,” Kripal said. “That’s why you collect it in an archive: to help people engage with it in the present and in the future.”

O.J. Simpson just died. Is it too soon to talk about his troubled past?

Social media feeds  fill to the brim with capital "RIP" letters and heart emojis after a prolific celebrity dies. Well, not always .

O.J. Simpson – the football star and actor acquitted of the killings of his ex-wife and another man with her that night – has died of cancer at 76. The jury in a civil trial found Simpson liable for the double murder, and he later served nine years in prison for his role in a botched armed robbery.

It completed a stunning fall from grace for the once-celebrated running back who won the Heisman Trophy in 1968. He capitalized on his athletic success in Hollywood, developing a career as a successful actor and TV pitchman. But it all came crashing down after the murder charges that riveted America.

"During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace," Simpson's family wrote in a post on X . Of course, the memes and snark poured in anyway.

But think about other deaths of controversial figures from the last few years: Paul Reubens, also known as children's entertainer Pee-wee Herman , who died recently after a private battle with cancer at age 70. And  Jerry Lee Lewis , who died in 2022 at 87. His career tanked after it came out that at age 22 he  married his 13-year-old cousin . 

Often mentions of these moments erupt in controversy, which is not surprising. After someone dies , fans often turn on those who try to disparage them. 

Experts say no timeline exists for when it's OK to talk negatively about someone after they die. Rather, they say, a celebrity's alleged misdeeds as well as how they died may impact the appropriateness of various responses.

More on O.J. Simpson: O.J. Simpson dies of cancer at 76, his family announces

'Sacred space' gone after someone dies

Take comedy icon  Jerry Lewis  or  Hugh Hefner . Both died in 2017 at age 91, but their names have popped up well after their deaths. Several of Lewis' female former co-stars accused him of sexual harassment and punitive behavior in an article last year in Vanity Fair. And Hefner's former girlfriends, Playmates and employees alleged a culture of abuse in A&E's documentary series "Secrets of Playboy."

More than enough time has passed to allow for a closer examination of these stars,  Robert Thompson , founding director of the Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture at the Newhouse School of Public Communications Syracuse University, previously told USA TODAY.

OJ Simpson's Bronco chase riveted America. The memory is haunting, even after his death.

In fact, these conversations may have happened a lot sooner if these stars died today.

"There did used to be a sense that there was this almost sacred space after someone had died," Thompson says. "You didn't say anything bad at their funeral and you waited a certain time before you said something bad thereafter. That included your uncle, and it included celebrities."

Lines blurred of 'appropriate' and 'inappropriate' grief

The internet and social media altered the way people communicate. Newspaper editors and heads of television stations previously called the shots on what was appropriate to talk about. Now? Individuals speak freely, online, whenever they want. 

"The lines of 'appropriate' and 'inappropriate' grief expressions, public conversations about their lives on social media – both positive and negative – and time limits, are immediately blurred and often unacknowledged,"  Melvin L. Williams , associate professor of communication studies at Pace University, also previously told USA TODAY.

Different cases call for different responses after someone dies, of course, including how someone died.

To think about: It’s time to cancel ‘cancel culture.’ Call it ‘accountability culture’ instead.

'We were a little too polite and decent'

Our  collective raised consciousness  – which has grown in the last decade in tandem with the rise of social media – only accelerated further due to the #MeToo movement. Many stories never discussed before, particularly about prominent men and their abuses of power, suddenly saw the light of day.

"I don't think there will be any time period after, let's say, Harvey Weinstein or Bill Cosby die," Thompson says. "They will be open season for that kind of thing. We already saw it with Jeffrey Epstein. Nobody was waiting to be polite to Jeffrey Epstein until X number of time had passed."

Reaction to Epstein's 2019 death was exactly how it should have been, Williams says. 

"There should be conversational differences when speaking of a convicted celebrity versus an alleged criminal celebrity figure," Williams says. "However, in the court of public opinion, there exist gray areas where some alleged celebrity figures never supersede their accusations, even when proven innocent." 

Caitlyn Jenner, more react to O.J. Simpson death: 'Good riddance'

These days, even the nicest person in the world could die and some people would still stomp on their (virtual) grave.

"Social media has really lowered the barriers of what's considered polite and decent," Thompson adds. "But I don't want to say that's necessarily a bad thing because we were a little too polite and decent about a lot of things that we didn't talk about that we should have been talking about."

Contributing: Josh Peter

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Air Travel Consumer Report: January 2024 Numbers

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) today released its Air Travel Consumer Report (ATCR) on airline operational data compiled for the month of January 2024 for on-time performance, mishandled baggage, and mishandled wheelchairs and scooters. The ATCR is designed to assist consumers with information on the quality of services provided by airlines. 

DOT expects that airlines will operate flights as scheduled and that when they do not, airlines will provide consumers the services consumers have been promised when a flight is canceled or delayed because of an airline issue. After a two-year DOT push to improve the passenger experience, the 10 largest airlines now guarantee meals and free rebooking on the same airline and nine guarantee hotel accommodations. Consumer-friendly information regarding airline commitments to their customers is available on the Department’s Airline Customer Service Dashboard at FlightRights.Gov. DOT also pushed airlines to provide fee-free family seating and rolled out a new family seating dashboard that highlights the airlines that guarantee fee-free family seating, and those of the 10 largest that do not, making it easier for parents to avoid paying junk fees to sit with their children when they fly.

In addition, DOT is improving transportation for individuals with disabilities. In July 2023, DOT finalized a rule which requires airlines to make lavatories on new, single-aisle aircraft more accessible. Then, in February 2024, DOT issued a proposal to address other barriers that Americans who use a wheelchair encounter when it comes to air travel by, among other things, mandating enhanced training for airline employees and contractors who physically assist passenger with disabilities and handle passengers’ wheelchairs.

Further, when necessary, DOT takes enforcement action against airlines and ticket agents that fail to comply with the Department’s aviation consumer protection requirements. In 2023, DOT issued the largest fines in the history of the consumer protection office. This includes a $140 million penalty against Southwest Airlines for failing passengers during the 2022 holiday meltdown. That penalty, which was in addition to over $600 million DOT already ensured was refunded by Southwest to passengers, requires Southwest to establish a $90 million compensation system for future passengers affected by significant delays and cancellations. DOT has helped return more than $3 billion in refunds to travelers since the pandemic began.

Flight Operations

The 560,352 flights operated in January 2024 were 99.56% of the 562,845 flights operated in January 2023. Operated flights in January 2024 were down 0.44% year-over-year from the 562,845 flights operated in January 2023 and down 7.18% month-over-month from 603,756 flights operated in December 2023. 

In January 2024, the 10 marketing network carriers reported 582,425 scheduled domestic flights, 22,073 (3.8%) of which were canceled. In December 2023, airlines scheduled 606,218 domestic flights, 2,462 (1.3%) of which were canceled. In January 2023, airlines scheduled 573,877 domestic flights, 11,032 (1.9%) of which were canceled.

On January 6, 2024, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ordered the grounding of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft with a mid-cabin door plug installed operated by U.S. airlines or in U.S. territory. On January 24, 2024, FAA cleared all such aircraft to return to service after each aircraft operator successfully completed a new inspection process approved by the FAA. Alaska Airlines and United Airlines have informed the DOT that the grounding of the 737 MAX9 aircraft with the mid-cabin door plug installed has impacted their on-time statistics during this reporting period.

January 2024 On-Time Arrival

In January 2024, reporting marketing carriers posted an on-time arrival rate of 72.8%, down from both 83.9% in December 2023 and from 76.2% in January 2023.

Highest Marketing Carrier On-Time Arrival Rates January 2024 (ATCR Table 1)

• Delta Airlines Network – 77.8%
• Allegiant Air – 75.6%
• Southwest Airlines – 73.9% 

Lowest Marketing Carrier On-Time Arrival Rates January 2024 (ATCR Table 1)

• Alaska Airlines Network – 64.7%
• JetBlue Airways – 69.5%
• American Airlines Network – 70.5%

January 2024 Flight Cancellations

In January 2024, reporting marketing carriers canceled 3.8% of their scheduled domestic flights, higher than both the rate of 0.4% in December 2023 and the rate of 1.9% in January 2023. 

Lowest Marketing Carrier Rates of Canceled Flights January 2024 (ATCR Table 6)

• Hawaiian Airlines – 1.5%  
• Spirit Airlines – 1.5%   
• JetBlue Airways – 1.7%    

Highest Marketing Carrier Rates of Canceled Flights January 2024 (ATCR Table 6)

• Alaska Airlines Network – 11.9%    
• United Airlines Network – 6.9%    
• Southwest Airlines – 3.1%    

Complaints About Airline Service

The release of air travel service complaint data in the Air Travel Consumer Report (ATCR) has been delayed primarily because of the continued high volume of complaints against airlines and ticket agents received by the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) and the time needed to review and process these consumer complaints. The Department is investing in modernizing its system for handling consumer complaints with the support of a Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) investment to improve the customer experience for the tens of thousands of consumers who use the system each year and enable OACP to more effectively engage in oversight of the airline industry. 

As DOT modernizes its system, given the continued high volume of air travel service complaints concerning airlines and ticket agents, DOT has revised how it processes consumer complaints received after June 1, 2023. From June 2023 until the date its system is modernized, DOT intends to revise the ATCR to display consumer submissions (complaints, inquiries, and opinions) as opposed to complaints for this period. The Department will continue to display civil rights complaints in the ATCR in a similar manner as before and anticipates publishing submission and civil rights complaint numbers in spring.

Tarmac Delays

In January 2024, airlines reported 71 tarmac delays of more than three hours on domestic flights, compared to five tarmac delays of more than three hours on domestic flights reported in December 2023. In January 2024, airlines reported six tarmac delays of more than four hours on international flights, compared to zero tarmac delays of more than four hours on international flights reported in December 2023. 

Airlines are required to have and adhere to assurances that they will not allow aircraft to remain on the tarmac for more than three hours for domestic flights and four hours for international flights without providing passengers the option to deplane, subject to exceptions related to safety, security, and Air Traffic Control related reasons. An exception also exists for departure delays if the airline begins to return the aircraft to a suitable disembarkation point to deplane passengers by those times.

The Department investigates extended tarmac delays.

Mishandled Baggage

In January 2024, reporting marketing carriers handled 37.4 million bags and posted a mishandled baggage rate of 0.75%, higher than both the rate of 0.50% in December 2023 and the rate of 0.73% in January 2023.

The Department began displaying the mishandled baggage data as a percentage (i.e., per 100 bags enplaned) in January 2022. This is consistent with the manner that the mishandled wheelchairs and scooters rate is calculated and displayed.     In the prior three calendar year reports (2019 to 2021), the Department calculated the mishandled baggage rate based on the number of mishandled bags per 1,000 checked bags. 

Mishandled Wheelchairs and Scooters

In January 2024, reporting marketing carriers reported checking 56,659 wheelchairs and scooters and mishandling 836 for a rate of 1.48% mishandled wheelchairs and scooters, higher than the rate of 1.39% mishandled in December 2023 and lower than the rate of 1.47% mishandled in January 2023.

As described earlier, in February 2024, the Department announced its proposal to strengthen its rule implementing the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) to address the serious problems that individuals with disabilities using wheelchairs and scooters face when traveling by air that impact their safety and dignity, including mishandled wheelchairs and scooters and improper transfers to and from aircraft seats, aisle chairs, and personal wheelchairs. The proposed rule would require that airlines meet strict standards in accommodating passengers with disabilities by setting new standards for prompt, safe, and dignified assistance, mandating enhanced training for airline employees and contractors who physically assist passengers with disabilities and handle passengers’ wheelchairs, and outlining actions that airlines must take to protect passengers when a wheelchair is damaged during transport. The proposed rule also clarifies that damaging or delaying the return of a wheelchair is an automatic violation of the ACAA.

Bumping/Oversales

Bumping/oversales data, unlike other air carrier data, are reported quarterly rather than monthly. For the fourth quarter of 2023, the 10 U.S. reporting marketing carriers posted an involuntary denied boarding, or bumping, rate of 0.20 per 10,000 passengers, lower than both the rate of 0.35 in the third quarter of 2023 and the rate of 0.30 in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Incidents Involving Animals

As part of its IT modernization, DOT’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP) is improving the options for covered carriers to submit their monthly and annual Reports on Incidents Involving Animals During Air Transport. While the new system is being developed, OACP is permitting covered carriers to delay submission of reports on incidents involving animals during air transport. Annual data on such incidents will be published when DOT receives carriers’ complete submissions of the 2023 data. 

In January 2024, carriers reported zero incidents involving the death, injury, or loss of an animal while traveling by air, equal to the zero reports filed in both December 2023 and in January 2023.

Consumers may file air travel consumer or civil rights complaints online at   https://secure.dot.gov/air-travel-complaint , or they may mail a complaint to the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection, U.S. Department of Transportation, C-70, W96-432, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20590.

The ATCR and other aviation consumer matters of interest to the public can be found at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer .

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Oregon River Trip Planning Just Got Easier

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PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon river information is now more accessible than ever on the National Rivers Project’s recreational river map. In collaboration with the Bureau of Land Management, the River Management Society recently added or updated over 1,000 miles of Oregon rivers to the NRP website. This includes nearly 700 miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers, iconic whitewater reaches, and beginner-friendly sections.

“Whether you want to paddle through Oregon’s high deserts and canyons or explore the rainforests and coastal waterways, the National Rivers Project is a really convenient first stop in the planning process,” says David Ballenger, BLM Oregon/Washington Recreation Lead.

The NRP website offers intuitive search features for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Users can sort sections by difficulty and recreational amenities such as fishing, camping and boat ramps. Each listing provides river access and permit details, with links to more information.

“Recreating on Oregon rivers gives people a stronger sense of stewardship,” says Lauren Pidot, BLM Oregon/Washington National Conservation Lands Program Lead. “Visitors are interested in protecting these public resources. We’re excited to help people more easily find these opportunities.”

Some of the recently added sections are very accessible with developed launches, while others are more wild and remote. BLM rangers remind boaters to check local weather conditions, water levels and permit requirements before departing on a river trip.

“All of our river and access information is sourced and reviewed by managing agencies, so boaters can feel confident when they begin their trip planning on our website,” says James Major, NRP Coordinator. “We want to give special thanks to BLM Oregon for their invaluable assistance on this project.”

Planned outage: Files stored in our eDOCS platform may be temporarily unavailable today from noon to 1 p.m.

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News releases

April 11, 2024

Latest news releases

40th Avenue West bridge over I-35 in Duluth to temporarily close

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation is temporarily closing the 40th Avenue West bridge over I-35 in Duluth due to damage sustained by a truck. Motorists on I-35 can expect lane closures for crews to conduct bridge inspections.  More information will be provided after inspections have occurred.

For more information on projects in northeast Minnesota, follow us on Facebook at https://facebook.com/groups/MnDOTnortheast and Twitter at @mndotnortheast . For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org .

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