From Journeys to Classrooms and Back Again: Travel Writer Lisa Niver’s Tips and Tales

Submitted by Dr. Jessie Voigts on Fri, 07/26/2024 - 00:01

Categories:

I'm so excited to share a lovely, inspiring interview today with our Wandering Educators. Let me tell you why...

Years and years ago, when we first started Wandering Educators (in 2007!), Lisa Niver and I connected through travel and education. We've collaborated on so many articles and projects, spent hours on the phone, and supported each other through thick and thin. When I put out the bat signal, this beloved science teacher taught our daughter science! Lisa has won countless awards, and is always expanding ways to tell stories and share the world. Almost two decades later, our friendship has turned out to be much richer than I ever could have imagined.

Now, Lisa's got a EXCELLENT new course on Udemy—all about...you guessed it! Travel writing.

Want to get started as a travel writer but not sure where to start? Look no further. Award-winning travel writer Lisa Niver shares her decades of travel wisdom in Travel Writer 101, a beginner class on how to get started in the world of content creation. From how to start, why photos and videos show more than words, social media, and creating community, this is a complete guide to how you can best share your travels with the world. Highly, highly recommended!

We were lucky enough to catch up with Lisa, and talk travel, destinations, videos, learning, her book and podcast, and her new course. Lean in - this is such a fantastic chat...

From Journeys to Classrooms and Back Again: Travel Writer Lisa Niver’s Tips and Tales

Lisa, you've traveled to 102 countries and counting. What inspired you to start traveling?
My love for travel started with going to summer camp. Every year, I looked forward to being with all the other kids and having activities all day long later when I worked at Club Med and cruise ships, it felt like being back in the bunks at camp. Growing up, I was always curious about the world beyond my immediate surroundings. I read books all the time and wondered about other places. When my family took a cruise to Europe, I felt like I was wandering inside one of my history books. I realized how transformative travel can be. It wasn't just about seeing new places; it was about experiencing different cultures, meeting new people, and learning about myself along the way. The thrill of the unknown and the excitement of new discoveries keep me going.

From Journeys to Classrooms and Back Again: Travel Writer Lisa Niver’s Tips and Tales
Niver in Indonesia

What are some of the most memorable destinations you've visited?
I have been fortunate to see some of the most amazing sites in my travels. It's hard to choose just a few because each place has its own unique charm and significance. I loved walking in the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, scuba diving in Palau, Sipadan, and Bonaire, and walking with the Polar Bears in Canada. This summer I am returning to see the Polar Bears again but this time I hope to also see Beluga Whales in Hudson Bay.

From Journeys to Classrooms and Back Again: Travel Writer Lisa Niver’s Tips and Tales
Niver at Beaches Turks & Caicos for PADI Women's International Dive Day

From Journeys to Classrooms and Back Again: Travel Writer Lisa Niver’s Tips and Tales
Polar bear sleeping

Another very memorable experience was when I taught the Maasai Warriors in Kenya to hula-hoop!

Each of these experiences was profound in its own way, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a deep sense of history and culture. The feeling of being in these incredible places is something I'll never forget.

You recently released a memoir. Can you tell us more about it?
Yes, my memoir is called Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty. It's a deeply personal account of my journey, both physical and emotional. I did 50 DARES or Challenges before I turned 50 after my divorce to reinvent myself. I wanted to share not just the glamorous side of travel but also the challenges and growth that come with it. The memoir covers my adventures across six continents, the highs and lows, and how these experiences have shaped who I am today. It's about finding courage, embracing change, and discovering the strength to move forward, no matter the obstacles. Writing it was a cathartic process, and I hope readers find it inspiring and relatable.

See the review on WANDERING EDUCATORS: FIERCENESS, PERSISTENCE, AND FINDING JOY!

Lisa Niver Brave-ish book cover

What prompted you to start your podcast?
The idea for my podcast, Make Your Own Map, came from a desire to connect with a broader audience and share the stories of other travelers and adventurers. I wanted to create a platform where people could hear firsthand accounts of amazing journeys, gain travel tips, and be inspired to embark on their own adventures. The podcast features interviews with a diverse range of guests, from fellow travel writers and bloggers to explorers and cultural experts. I was honored to interview Deepak Chopra, the Ambassador of Ireland and to receive multiple awards for my show.

It's been incredibly rewarding to share these stories and hear how they've inspired listeners. It's like bringing the world's most exciting tales right to your ears!

Lisa Niver podcast called Make Your Own Map

What can students expect from your new class on Udemy, "Travel Writer 101"?
"Travel Writer 101" is a beginner level exploration of how to be a travel content creator. People ask me all the time how to become a travel journalist and travel like me. This course covers the basics. It takes time to find your unique voice, but the most important thing is just to begin. You will learn by doing. Practice makes better. The course includes a bit about the business side of travel writing, such as building a portfolio, pitching to editors, and using social media to promote your work. Becoming a successful travel writer requires many different skills and can lead to the most incredible experiences.

My class is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you get started and thrive in this exciting field.

Lisa Niver class: Travel Writing 101

How did you develop the curriculum for the course?
I drew on my own experiences as a travel writer, as well as the insights I've gained from interviewing other writers and industry professionals. I wanted to create a course that was both informative and engaging, with practical advice that students can immediately put into practice. The curriculum includes video lectures and real-world examples to help students understand what it takes to succeed in this field. I am available for one-one-one sessions on any of the skills including writing, video, and social media. It's all about equipping students with the tools they need to tell their stories with confidence and flair.

Lisa Niver with Brave-ish cover in a Barbie photoshoot

What are some common challenges aspiring travel writers face, and how does your course address them?
One of the biggest challenges is finding your unique voice and style. Many aspiring writers struggle with self-doubt and wonder if their stories are worth telling. In "Travel Writer 101," I emphasize the importance of authenticity and encourage students to embrace their individuality. Another common challenge is understanding the business side of writing, such as how to pitch to editors and network to find press trip opportunities. My course offers practical tips and strategies for navigating these aspects, helping students to not only hone their craft but also succeed professionally. I want my students to feel empowered to share their stories and confident in their abilities to do so.

Lisa Niver with polar bears in Canada
Niver with polar bears (!)

How has travel writing evolved since you started your career?
Travel writing has changed significantly with the rise of digital media and social platforms. When I started, print magazines and guidebooks were the primary outlets for travel stories. Today, there are so many more opportunities to share your work, from blogs and podcasts to Instagram and YouTube.

This democratization of content creation means that anyone with a passion for travel and storytelling can build an audience. However, it also means that the market is more competitive. Writers need to be savvy about using digital tools and platforms to stand out. It's an exciting time to be a travel writer, with endless possibilities for sharing your adventures.

https://www.youtube.com/@LisaNiver

Lisa Niver with kids in Vanuatu
Lisa with kids in Vanuatu village

What's next for you? Any upcoming projects or adventures?
I'm always planning my next adventure! Travel continues to be a central part of my life, and I'm eager to share where it takes me next. I have been working with The Jet Set TV and you can see my segment from when I went on the brand new Icon of the Seas. There are so many places to explore and stories to tell!

I’m excited about expanding my podcast and exploring new topics and guests. I'm developing a book promotion class to help authors as I have had great success getting placements for my memoir—in fact I have been part of over 75 articles, TV segments, and interviews about my memoir in less than 9 months.

Lisa Niver with her new book, Brave-ish

Finally, what advice do you have for aspiring travel writers?
My biggest piece of advice is to just start writing. Don't wait for the perfect moment or the perfect trip—start with what you have and where you are. Write about your hometown, your weekend getaways, or even past trips that have stayed with you. The more you write, the better you'll get. Also, read widely and learn from other writers, but don't be afraid to develop your own voice. And most importantly, be persistent. The journey to becoming a travel writer can be challenging, but it's incredibly rewarding if you stick with it. Embrace the journey, and let your passion for travel and storytelling guide you.

From Journeys to Classrooms and Back Again: Travel Writer Lisa Niver’s Tips and Tales
Lisa in Tonga with Kids