The Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards
The Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards (ESTWA) are among the most prestigious accolades in the travel writing community. Established in 2015, these awards celebrate the best in travel literature, honoring both established and emerging authors who capture the essence of travel through their words. Named after Edward Stanford, the founder of the renowned map and travel bookshop Stanfords, these awards have quickly become a benchmark for excellence in the genre.
History and Background
The awards were created to fill the void left by the discontinuation of the Thomas Cook Travel Book Award, which had been a significant recognition in the travel writing world for 25 years. The Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards aim to continue this legacy by highlighting outstanding travel narratives and promoting the importance of travel literature.
Categories and Criteria
The ESTWA encompass a variety of categories, ensuring a broad recognition of different aspects of travel writing. Some of the key categories include:
1. Stanford Dolman Travel Book of the Year: This is the flagship award, recognizing the best travel book published in the previous year. It is open to all authors and covers a wide range of travel-related topics.
2. Outstanding Contribution to Travel Writing: This award honors an individual who has made a significant impact on the field of travel writing over their career.
3. Bradt Travel Guides New Travel Writer of the Year: This category is specifically for unpublished travel writers, providing a platform for new voices in the industry.
4. Children’s Travel Book of the Year: Recognizes books that inspire young readers to explore and appreciate the world.
5. Fiction with a Sense of Place: Celebrates novels where the setting plays a crucial role in the narrative, enhancing the reader’s sense of place.
6. Adventure Travel Book of the Year: Focuses on books that recount thrilling and adventurous journeys.
7. Travel Memoir of the Year: Honors personal narratives that offer deep insights into the author’s travel experiences.
8. Travel Blog of the Year: Recognizes outstanding travel blogs that provide valuable information and inspiration to travelers.
9. Photography and Illustrated Travel Book of the Year: Celebrates books that combine stunning visuals with compelling travel stories.
10. Food & Travel Book of the Year: Highlights books that explore the intersection of culinary arts and travel.
Notable Winners
Over the years, the Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards have recognized numerous exceptional works. Some notable winners include:
• Colin Thubron for “The Amur River: Between Russia and China” (2022), a profound exploration of one of the world’s great rivers.
• Erika Fatland for “The Border: A Journey Around Russia” (2021), which offers a comprehensive look at the countries bordering Russia.
• Silvia Vasquez-Lavado for “In The Shadow of the Mountain” (2023), a powerful memoir of resilience and adventure.
Impact on Authors and the Travel Writing Community
Winning or even being shortlisted for an Edward Stanford Travel Writing Award can significantly boost an author’s career. It provides recognition from peers and readers alike, often leading to increased book sales and further publishing opportunities. For new writers, the Bradt Travel Guides New Travel Writer of the Year category offers a unique chance to break into the industry, with past winners going on to secure book deals and regular writing gigs.
The awards also play a crucial role in promoting travel literature to a broader audience. By highlighting diverse voices and stories, they encourage readers to explore new destinations and perspectives, fostering a greater appreciation for the world around us.
Conclusion
The Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards are more than just accolades; they are a celebration of the art of travel writing. They honor the storytellers who take us on journeys through their words, inspiring us to see the world in new and exciting ways. For any travel author, participating in these awards is not only a mark of prestige but also an opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for travel and storytelling.
Are you considering entering your ebook into any of these categories? It could be a fantastic way to gain recognition and reach a wider audience! Read more about this awards here.
