You can do lots of research en route
Surprisingly often, I’m often asked whether travel writing should consist simply of travel writers stepping off the plane and recording their impressions. My answer is a resounding negative. Preparation and research prior to arrival is fundamental to good travel writing. And the flight – as well as your passage through the airport – is a fabulous opportunity. You’ll have hours to spare to read up on your destination. You’ll also want to distract yourself from your environment. Planes and airports are normally cramped, noisy and generally unpleasant. Yes, you might blag your way into business class, and that’s much more comfortable - but you’ll still want to be doing something en route. Get stuck into your research. And what should you do during your return flight? That’s a golden opportunity for going through your notes and writing the first draft of your feature. So make the most of it!