Tourism is the economic engine of many destinations, and thanks to new technologies, our trips can become more than just experiences and learning opportunities. As travel journalists, we have multiple ways of monetization of our tourism projects. We are in an era of “never ending tourism,” where travel experiences are extended over time through digitalization, allowing us to create content from our adventures and meet the constant demand for such material. Therefore, the answer is: Yes, you can make money and live as a travel journalist.
In the Tourism and Travel Journalism module, students gain practical knowledge through real-world experiences applied in their daily work. The classes are grounded in actual newsroom practices, where real problems are introduced to propose solutions and draw conclusions. Additionally, there is a focus on exploring new monetization opportunities through emerging digital formats.
Tourism and Travel Journalism
This module focuses on monetization and the application of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and social networks, for creating content in innovative formats. It also covers practical marketing strategies that can be applied in real-world scenarios. As travel journalists, our profession enables us to present places in a positive light and experience them firsthand. This approach helps make the world feel smaller and more connected, fostering cultural understanding and allowing us to share these insights with those who have not had the chance to visit.
Monetization of Non-Conventional Media
- Print: Although it may seem that print media, such as travel magazines, are becoming obsolete, they remain a vibrant medium where travel journalists can contribute written and photographic content.
- Web: Digital content is paramount today. Therefore, websites specializing in tourism content offer a viable way of monetization travel chronicles and articles.
- Social Networks: The plethora of social networks provides opportunities to work as a community manager or sell content for social media publication.
- E-Commerce – Affiliate Marketing – Digital Advertising: Monetizing a website or social media presence can be achieved by incorporating affiliate links into content or engaging in paid collaborations, essentially digital advertising, to enhance one’s personal brand and media platforms.
Presenting Digital Content as a Travel Journalist
- Transmedia Presentation: A visually compelling website that integrates text, photographs, and videos in an innovative format based on user scrolling.
- Interactive Content: A travel guide featuring a visual, intuitive, and quick navigation interface, allowing users to filter experiences by natural, cultural, or gastronomic categories.
- Loyalty Club: The goal is to establish a space that combines monetization with user loyalty. This initiative aims to make customers feel “unique” by offering discounts, exclusive events, and products that enable them to relive experiences or fulfill their dreams. These strategies represent current monetization trends that complement other business avenues.
Success Formulas
To thrive in the field of travel journalism, several key ingredients are essential for monetizing our work. Adaptability and creativity are crucial. The objective of these courses is to equip students with the knowledge necessary to work in media or to create their own channels for disseminating travel content.
- Originality: Infuse your travel content with your unique perspective to distinguish yourself and specialize in specific types of content. Venture out, travel, and explore, then monetize your distinctive experiences.
- Target Audience: Before presenting your proposal to a media outlet, it is essential to study the outlet in order to tailor your content to its audience and market niche. Once you have a clear understanding of the target audience, develop a detailed proposal to effectively pitch your project. After refining your approach, submit your written materials or photographs.
- Professionalism: The quality of your content and your method of approaching media outlets for publication are critical in establishing your professional identity.
If you’re interested in learning how to monetize your content as a travel journalist, enhance your skills, and develop your own projects, the Master in Travel Journalism at the School of Travel Journalism offers the opportunity to professionalize your career. Guided by experts in tourism, journalism, and marketing, you will acquire valuable tools to become a versatile and well-rounded travel communication professional.