Last week, I sent out an urgent request for story pitches. Within hours, my inbox filled with responses from publicists, destinations, hotels, restaurants, and tourism boards across the globe.
Thank you.
Whether you sent one idea or ten, know that every email was read. I am still working through them all, and I appreciate the trust you place in me to tell your stories.
That’s the contradiction many of us are experiencing right now.
Airports are packed. Hotels are reporting strong occupancy. Destinations continue to invest heavily in tourism marketing. According to UN Tourism, international travel has essentially returned to pre-pandemic levels, and travelers are still prioritizing experiences over things.
Yet many freelance travel writers are finding themselves having to pitch harder than ever.
Part of the challenge is the continued contraction of the media industry. Layoffs and restructurings have become routine. Even in recent months, major publications have announced staff cuts and reorganizations. Every time a newsroom shrinks, more experienced journalists enter the freelance market, creating increased competition for the same assignments.
At the same time, publishers are navigating a rapidly changing digital landscape. The rise of AI-powered search results means readers are increasingly getting answers without clicking through to articles. Many publishers have reported declining referral traffic, forcing them to rethink editorial strategies, budgets, and business models.
The result? Editors are becoming more selective about what they commission.
Generic destination roundups and easily replicated content are harder to place. Publications are looking for distinctive voices, firsthand reporting, original access, expert insights, and stories that can’t be generated by a chatbot or copied from a press release.
Another shift is the growing influence of creators. Publishers are increasingly partnering with newsletter writers, influencers, podcasters, and content creators who bring their own audiences. For journalists, this means that building a personal brand and a direct relationship with readers is becoming almost as important as the writing itself.
In some ways, we’re witnessing a fundamental transformation of travel media.
The old model of relying solely on magazine assignments is fading. Today’s successful writers are often juggling editorial work, newsletters, social media, speaking engagements, consulting, affiliate partnerships, books, podcasts, and their own websites.
While that may sound daunting, I actually find it encouraging.
Travel journalism isn’t disappearing. It’s evolving.
The writers who continue to thrive will be those who offer expertise, authenticity, unique perspectives, and a loyal audience that follows their work wherever it appears.
Despite the challenges, I am fortunate to be working on multiple assignments this month for Explore Georgia, Travel + Leisure, Fodor’s, Food & Wine, my regular columns, and of course, Go Eat Give. I am grateful for editors who continue to invest in original reporting and for readers who value thoughtful storytelling.
Be patient.
Diversify your outlets.
Pitch smarter, not more.
Build relationships before you need them.
Create your own platforms and audiences.
Continue traveling, learning, and reporting even when assignments are slow.
For PR professionals, a little patience goes a long way, too.
Many writers are juggling delayed responses from editors, shifting editorial calendars, and shrinking budgets. If we don’t immediately jump on a pitch, it doesn’t necessarily mean we’re not interested. Sometimes we’re simply waiting for the right home, the right angle, or the right timing.
Speaking of timing...
If you are pitching Juneteenth or Fourth of July stories right now, you’re probably too late. Most national publications have already planned those editorial packages weeks or months in advance.
Instead, let’s talk fall.
Please take a moment to read my Substack post about what I cover and the kinds of stories I would like to be pitched. Please do not follow up asking for deadlines, outlets, etc. I will reach out with details if your pitch is a good fit.
Lookout Mountain, GA (June 2026)
I’m seeking notable restaurants, chefs, farm-to-table concepts, wineries, and experiences in the Lookout Mountain/ Chattanooga region for upcoming coverage.
Sicily & Tunisia (August–September 2026)
I’m actively researching stories and would welcome conversations regarding hosted media stays, boutique hotels, sustainable tourism experiences, culinary programs, agritourism properties, food producers, and unique cultural experiences.
Openings in the South (Oct-Feb 2027)
A large national publication is looking for upcoming openings (hotels, parks, and attractions) across all Southern states. Don’t wait for the actual press release; we want to know now.
Gift Guides (Nov 2026)
Planning ahead, as testing products consumes a lot of my time. I am looking for products related to travel, lifestyle, and culinary, but really anything worth giving and receiving.
And on a more personal note...
I’m still trying to decide where to celebrate the Fourth of July.
After spending much of the past year on the road—from Tanzania to Switzerland to China—I find myself looking for something close to home. If you know of a stylish celebration, rooftop party, fireworks experience, or hidden gem around metro Atlanta, send it my way.
As always, thank you for reading, pitching, supporting independent journalism, and helping keep meaningful travel storytelling alive.
The industry may be changing.
But great stories still matter.
— Sucheta
In Search of the Perfect Mango - Khabar Magazine (Print)
How Just 10 Words in Japanese Changed My Trip in Kyushu - The Real World by Trafalgar
The Spice You Didn’t Know You Were Missing - Khabar Magazine (Print)
Slow Down With an Afternoon Tea in Atlanta - Georgia Trend Magazine
Beach Fare on the Beltline - Georgia Trend Magazine (Print)
Safari, Southern Style: A Wildly Luxurious Escape Outside Atlanta - Social Atlanta
Trailblazing Indy - AAA The Extra Mile (Print)
Is ‘Pasture-Raised’ Chicken Worth The Price? Here’s The Truth - HuffPost
Greenland Travel Guide: What Has Changed in 12 Years - Go Eat Give
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