Bradt New Travel Writer of the Year
The Bradt New Travel Writer of the Year competition is a prestigious platform dedicated to discovering and nurturing new talent in travel writing. Established over 25 years ago, this competition is renowned for providing unpublished travel writers with an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their skills and gain recognition in the travel writing community.
History and Significance
The competition is organized by Bradt Travel Guides, a respected name in the travel publishing industry. It aims to continue the legacy of promoting high-quality travel literature by identifying and supporting emerging writers. The competition is held in association with the Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards, further enhancing its prestige and reach.
Categories and Criteria
The Bradt New Travel Writer of the Year competition invites participants to submit an original piece of travel writing based on a specific theme. The entries must be true stories, written in the first person, and based on the writer’s personal experiences. The competition typically requires submissions to be between 600 and 800 words, ensuring that writers can effectively convey their narratives within a concise format.
Prizes and Recognition
The competition offers attractive prizes to its winners. The overall winner receives a significant travel-related prize, such as a luxury trip or a travel commission. Additionally, the winner is commissioned to write an article about their trip, which will be published on the Bradt website and in Traveller magazine.
The two runners-up also receive valuable prizes, including a selection of Bradt travel guides. All shortlisted entries are published on the Bradt website, providing participants with exposure and the opportunity to reach a wider audience.
Past Winners
1. 2024: Sinean Callery Won with Lost and Found
2. 2023: What Was Left Behind by Emma Willsteed won the award
3. 2022: The call of Kilimanjaro by Ruth Cox
Impact on Writers
Winning or even being shortlisted in the Bradt New Travel Writer of the Year competition can significantly boost a writer’s career. Many past winners and finalists have gone on to secure publishing deals, write for major travel magazines, and establish themselves as respected voices in the travel writing community. The competition not only provides recognition but also opens doors to new opportunities and professional growth.
Conclusion
The Bradt New Travel Writer of the Year competition is a valuable platform for aspiring travel writers. It celebrates the art of travel storytelling and provides a stepping stone for new writers to gain recognition and advance their careers. For any travel author looking to make their mark, participating in this competition is an excellent opportunity to showcase their talent and connect with a community of like-minded individuals.
