Tell Your Story, Earn the Certification
Dear traveler,
If you feel like you've been knocking on the door of the world of publication, trying to get in, then this certification course will give you the keys you have been searching for.
As editors, we will show you exactly what the gatekeepers at top travel writing publications and publishers look for in stories.
Across four engaging live workshops, each about one hour long, you'll deconstruct what makes a successful travel story. You'll learn how to hook both reader and editor, avoid mistakes that lead to rejections, and tell the stories that only you can tell, using your own unique voice.
Throughout the course, you'll work on your own professional-level travel story. At the end, you'll gain personal feedback on your travel story, refine it at your own pace, and submit to to earn the Intrepid Times Craft of Travel Writing Certification.
Curriculum
- Editor's Welcome - How to Make the Most Of This Course and Graduate with Confidence
- AI and Travel Writing - Our Policy and the Truth Travel Writers Need to know
- Essential Skills PDF Guide: Captivate Readers and Editors with a Perfect First Paragraph
- Essential Skills PDF Guide: Travel Stories vs. Travel Guides - Know What You're Writing
- Essential Skills PDF Guide: The Magic of Storytelling for Travel Writers - Enchant Your Readers
- Essential Skills PDF Guide: Building Your Platform - Create a Following for Your Travel Stories
- Workshop #1: The Art and Tactics of Irresistible Travel Storytelling. [Wednesday, Nov 5, 12 PM New York, 5 PM London] (60:35)
- Workshop #2: Relevance, Newsworthiness, and Making Your Stories Matter. [Wednesday, Nov 12, 12 PM New York, 5 PM London] (64:23)
- Workshop #3: Writing that Compels; Mistakes to Avoid and How to Edit Like a Pro. [Tuesday, Nov 18, 12 PM New York, 5 PM London] (59:47)
- Workshop #4: Professional Practice; Pitching, Following-Up, and Making Your Name as a Travel Writer. [Wednesday, Nov 26, 12 PM New York, 5 PM London] (56:34)
Your instructor
Nathan James Thomas is the founder of Intrepid Times (2014), which has received plaudits four years in a row at the Travel Media Awards as well as the British Journalism Awards and the Inspire Global Media Awards. He is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers and the published author of “Travel Your Way” (2022) and “Untethered” (2023). An experienced publisher, editor, and published author, his work has been covered in The Times, The Australian, and the New Zealand Herald, and his travel writing has been published in the Lonely Planet, Roads & Kingdoms, Outpost Magazine, and, of course, Intrepid Times.
Your certification
As an emerging travel writer, it's particularly hard to break through, especially when you don't have a large amount of clippings to your name. The Intrepid Times Craft of Travel Writing Certification sends a signal to editors that you have taking the time to learn the craft of travel writing. It gives confidence, and may help to open the door and speed your stories through publication. It's also a vote of confidence in yourself, a seal of approval that tour work has been read and critiqued by experienced editors and found worthy of certification.
Your Roadmap to Certification
We’re thrilled to welcome travel writers to the very first cohort of the Intrepid Times Craft of Travel Writing Certification Course. Enrollment is open now, with classes beginning November 5. Here’s what to expect:
Immediately: Enroll and Access Your Student Area, Welcome Workbooks, Bonuses, and Networking
Register today to unlock all bonus materials, download quick-start welcome PDF guides on essential travel writing skills, and join our private WhatsApp group. Connect with fellow students, share ideas, and get encouragement as you prepare for the course.
Wednesdays, November 5, 12, 19*, 26: Live Online Workshops (12 PM New York / 5 PM London). Recordings Provided.
Join four interactive workshops in a small group setting, each focused on a different aspect of the travel writer’s craft (see curriculum above). Allow one hour per session, including Q&A. Notes and recordings will be uploaded within 48 hours so you can easily catch up even if you miss the live session
* Wednesday, Nov 19 session has been moved to Tuesday, Nov 18
Friday, November 28: Initial Story Submission & Personal Feedback
Submit your first travel story (up to 1,800 words) and receive detailed editorial feedback within seven days.
Wednesday, December 13: Final Story Submission
Incorporate feedback, polish your story, and submit your final draft for certification.
Monday, December 20: Graduation and Certification
Celebrate your achievement! Successful students receive their certification, provided their story meets our professional standards. You may also submit your final story to Intrepid Times for publication consideration (optional).
Common Questions
Am I Qualified for this Course?
Yes. No prior publications are required, just a love of travel, a passion for storytelling, and openness to feedback.
What Are the Requirements for Certification?
Graduation requires completing all four workshops (live or via recordings) and submitting a final travel story that meets Intrepid Times’ editorial standards. You’ll receive ample feedback to help you reach this level.
What if I Can’t Attend the Live Workshops?
Attendance is encouraged for the interactive experience, but full recordings and notes will be available in your student area after each session.
What if I Need More Time for My Story?
We understand life gets busy. If you need an extension, email editor@intrepidtimes.com and we’ll work with you.
How Much Time Will I Need?
Plan for around three hours per week: one for the workshop and two for writing and editing. Bonus materials are provided if you’d like to go deeper.