Travel Writing: Audience

When composing travel writing, it’s essential to identify who your audience is. Are they fellow travellers looking for advice, people planning a trip, or readers who simply enjoy living vicariously through your experiences?
Understanding your audience’s interests and preferences can influence the language, style, and detail you use. For example, if your readers are active individuals interested in outdoor pursuits, you might want to focus on the adventurous aspects of your travels.
The tone of your writing should match the audience’s expectations. An audience seeking luxurious travel experiences will likely appreciate a more formal, detailed tone, while thrill-seekers might prefer dynamic, exciting language.
Consider the prior knowledge of your readers. Audiences well-versed in travel might not need basic information, while first-time travellers may need more guidance and explanatory details.
It’s often beneficial to provide a unique insight or personal perspective in your travel writing. This can make your work more engaging and relatable for readers, enhancing their interest and engagement.
You should also consider the cultural sensitivity of your audience. Providing respectful representations of the locations and cultures you’re writing about is important. Avoid stereotyping and ensure to fact-check to prevent misinformation.
Be aware of your audience’s probable reading level when selecting your vocabulary and sentence structure. Avoid overly complicated words or technical jargon that might alienate your readers.
Remember to include practical information in your writing – travel costs, accommodation options, tourist attractions, local customs, etc. While travel writing can be entertaining, readers often look for useful information to plan their own trips.
It’s helpful to carry out a little research about your audience before you start writing. Using feedback or comments on previous pieces can help you gauge their interests, preferences, demographics, and the types of travel writing they enjoy the most.
The purpose of your travel writing could also dictate your audience. If you’re writing a hotel review, your audience might be potential guests considering staying there, while a cultural article about a city may appeal to a broader audience.