Travel+Blogging

Travel blogging is a natural extension of the traditional "travel journal" in which one writes the experiences they have gained while exploring new places. Travel journals typically resembled diaries, and many people use blogs as a substitute for diaries, so it is unsurprising that blogs have been used for travel journals, too. Many blogs provide special features for those who are using it for travel blogging, and some blogging sites are specifically designed for travel blogs. Experienced travel bloggers can create a career out of traveling. [|TravelBlog], Everything-Everywhere, UnCornered Market and Nomadic Matt are four of the leading independent travel blog websites.

Travel blogs serve several purposes. They are a method for staying in contact with friends and family even if someone is on the other side of the world. It also allows the blogger to share important experiences and pictures related to their new environment. Another important function of travel blogs is for the blogger to keep track of their travels so they always have a record of what they've seen and experienced.

Travel blogging has also helped to create a subculture of the traditional backpacker culture known as 'flashpackers'. Flashpackers travel in the same independent style as the traditional backpacker, but with more technology and resources. Laptops and DSLR's are standard equipment. Much like a backpacker, the flashpacker will spend 3 months + exploring the globe in search of off the beaten path adventures and largely without guides or constraints to time.

Some tips for writing travel blogs:
 * Include a map so people know where you are
 * Include a lot of pictures. Pictures can often express your surroundings and the amazing sights you see much better than words can.
 * Share the blog address with family and friends, even (or perhaps especially) those you don't communicate with frequently. Many people want to know about your new experiences and will be excited at this opportunity.
 * Update the travel blog regularly, even if you are staying in the same place. There are always new insights that can be added, and you want to give your audience a reason to check back regularly.
 * Don't let your blog dictate your whole trip-- even though your readers are eager to hear about your adventures, make sure you don't spend so much time blogging that aren't able to make the most of your travels