Great Escape Publishing

Posted October 25th, 2007 by Bonnie Caton & filed under Travel Writing.

A By-Line and Up to $500 through Transitions Abroad’s Contest

Started in 1977 by international college studies advisor Clay Hubbs, Transitions Abroad is a magazine for travelers who like to live and work, study, or volunteer abroad. Folks who like to really experience a place and get a feel for its people.

The editors like articles that focus on issues beyond sight-seeing, like the environment, politics, and living conditions in other countries. They look for advice and practical tips for readers who don’t consider themselves “tourists.” According to their website, “…Transitions Abroad remains the leading magazine and web site for independent travelers who want to extend their time abroad through work, study, or low-cost travel.”

It’s a good place to start if you haven’t been published yet, because the editors are more interested in solid information from a reliable source than strictly professional writing. That’s not to say they’re looking for something dry that states the facts alone.

Articles in Transitions Abroad mix personal accounts of experience with sound advice to anyone looking to do the same. They paint a picture of the destination or activity and then generally follow up with an information box of links and contact details.

Now is a great time to check out their site because their yearly travel writing contest is about to come to an end. If you win, you could make up to $500. Even if you don’t, if the editors decide to run your article, they’ll pay you $50 and give you a by-line.

For the Narrative Travel Writing Contest, Transitions Abroad is looking for articles about what travel teaches us. They want stories about self-discovery, realizations, and life knowledge and wisdom gained from immersion abroad in 1,000 to 3,000 words. Photos are a plus.

Prizes are $500 for first place, $150 for second, and $100 for third. They’ll also pay $50 for any other articles they accept.

[Editor’s Note: Learn more about opportunities to profit from your travels (and even from your own home) in our free online newsletter The Right Way to Travel.]