Travel Writing: Purpose

Travel Writing: Understanding Purpose

Defining the Purpose in Travel Writing

The purpose of a piece of travel writing could vary: it may aim to inform, entertain, persuade, or a combination of these.
Travel writing can be a guide, sharing practical information like locations, accommodation, food and transport.
It can also aim to entertain by sharing humorous or interesting anecdotes about the location or journey.
The purpose might be to persuade readers to visit a particular destination or to adopt a certain perspective about a place or culture.

Tailoring Content to Your Purpose

If your piece aims to inform, ensure it includes factual information like names of places, specific addresses, modes of transportation, or estimated costs.
For pieces aiming to entertain, share intriguing stories, cultural quirks, or humorous instances from your journey.
When looking to persuade, focus on the unique qualities of the location or journey that make it worth experiencing. Use strong, compelling language to outline these points.
A piece might also aim to inspire by spotlighting breathtaking sights or unique cultural experiences, firing the reader’s wanderlust.

Guiding Your Reader for Your Purpose

Remember that your reader is navigating the location through your writing. Use clear, vivid descriptions to help them visualize the place, no matter what your purpose may be.
Show, don’t just tell. Demonstrative stories or personal experiences can be more impactful than plain facts or opinions.
Even if your work is informational, infusing it with a narrative style can make it more exciting and compelling. Maintain an engaging tone and structure.

Anticipating Reader Response

Always keep your reader’s expectations in mind, and balance it with your purpose. If you are writing to persuade but your reader is seeking practical information, try to merge both elements.
Be respectful of the places and cultures you write about. Remember that your perspective is subjective, and it might differ greatly from the experiences of locals or other readers.
Understand that, at times, readers may have a preconceived image of a place. Be mindful of these potential biases and tackle them appropriately in your writing, especially if your purpose is to persuade.

Understanding purpose is paramount in travel writing. Your audience should feel guided and intrigued throughout your depiction of a journey or location, regardless of whether you’re informing, entertaining, persuading or inspiring them.