For anyone who's looking to get into travel writing, it is important to have had some experience in traveling. It is essential. This is where a writer obtains the materials that will become the stories that will end up on paper.
Get acquainted with the road and its demands. It is advisable for future traveler writers to immerse themselves into different cultures. Whenever traveling abroad, absorb the local scene. If possible, try to experience more than the regular tourist route. Get to know the people and learn from their customs. Try to pick up something that is original to that region. Capture the essence of the place.
This way, there'll be plenty to write about when it's time to pick up the pen.
When not traveling read up on the business of travel writing! Read travelogues, brochures, road books, travel magazines, etc. This way an inspiring travel writer gets more acquainted with the trade.
Very few writers make a living out of writing alone; so it is important to have something to fall back on, in case the writing gig doesn't work. Writers have to be practical when it comes to their expectations. A writing career doesn't happen over night. Sometimes, it takes years for a writer to get some type of recognition.
Don't use this as an excuse to give up though. Aspiring travel writers should continuously send their work out. Even if they get rejection letters after rejection letters. Don't take this personally. Editors are very specific about the type of work they accept.
That it why it is important to study the market before a writer starts sending his or her work. Evaluate the market. Find out exactly what each magazine, e-zine, newspaper, etc, is after. This will increase a writer's chances of getting published.
Remember, just because one is writing about traveling, doesn't mean that one can get away with bad writing! Make sure the quality of work that is being produced is up to standard.
The best way to achieve this standard is to keep on writing. Even if a travel writer is not on assignment in some exotic country, he or she can still do a lot of quality writing at home. Even if the writing that is being done doesn't pertain to traveling. The important thing is to write, write, and write.
Experiment with tones, perspectives, and different styles of writing. This way when called to duty, a writer will be able to easily unleash his or her magic with a drop of a hat, and dazzle the editors with their brilliance!