Travel writing from scratch - Interview with Portugal journalist Lucy Bryson | Travel Writing Skool

Lucy Bryson jetted out of Manchester, UK, many years ago and headed to Brazil, without knowing the language and with little in the way of travel writing experience. But now, even as a single mother, she has carved a niche as a travel writer specialising in Portugal and Brazil with bylines in BBC Travel, AFAR, Wanderlust, Vice, Time Out, Fodor's Travel, Atlas Obscura, DK Eyewitness Guides, easyJet Traveller, USA Today, and Rough Guides, among others.

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Key Insights for Aspiring Travel Writers: Career Path and Language Skills

• [00:01-02:20] Started from scratch in Brazil, learned Portuguese without prior knowledge

• Developed language skills through immersion and Brazilian locals' patience

• Initially worked in local newspapers and magazine journalism

Breaking into Travel Writing

• [03:31-05:04] Transitioned from general journalism to travel writing in Brazil

• Began with guidebook work (Footprint Guide to South Brazil, Rough Guides)

• Lower living expenses initially helped support career transition

Income Strategies

• [15:02-17:19] Multiple income streams:

• Freelance pitching

• Copywriting

• PR work

• Branded content

• "Less glamorous" work like shore excursion descriptions and listicles

• Anchor clients often found her through LinkedIn and Instagram

Pitch and Publication Tips

• [27:45-29:20] Cold pitching challenges:

• Low commission rates (estimated 40% success)

• Pitch ideas can become outdated

• Benefit from editor connections

[25:33-26:44] Publication Challenges

• Some publications pay poorly

• Occasional commissioned pieces get spiked

• Persistence is key

Advice for Success

• [19:34-20:06] Key strategies:

• Meet deadlines consistently

• Deliver clean copy

• Be reliable and adaptable

• Build relationships with editors

Current Work and Aspirations

• [29:48-34:48] Currently writing for Afar

• Interested in pitching stories about:

• Madeira's landscape influencing cuisine

• Female chefs in Portugal

• Aims to be published in Guardian Travel and Condé Nast Traveler

Lucy's advice will help aspiring travel writers understand the practical journey of becoming a successful travel writer.