buzz-worthy vacations that you can afford

The skill sets involved in travel blogging and running a success travel business are akin to those required to run many small businesses. In the beginning, you are everything to everyone, and it’s a precarious balance of being a travel writer, researcher, website designer, site manager and tech support, salesperson, public relations manager, accountant, research [...]

My Value Luxury colleagues and I often discuss what would make an ideal blog trip. I think we agree that the best visits to a destination occupy the space somewhere between being blindfolded and dropped out of an airplane into the middle of a foreign country with a few days’ supply of bread and water, [...]

Hawaii’s island of Lanai once again hosted its “Writers in Residence” program for the second year in a row, and this year the Value Luxury Travel Network had representation in the program. Chris Gray Faust participated in the first year’s program (here’s a flashback to her coverage), and this year Andy Hayes (that’s me!) was [...]

Recently, I ventured out to Durango, Colorado in search of some fresh powder to satisfy my winter whims. About 6 months ago, the city of Durango had sent me some materials, suggesting that I come visit when I had a chance, and so this seemed to be the perfect opportunity. I started my trip with [...]

I’ve been a member of the Society of American Travel Writers since 2008, when I became travel editor at USA TODAY. It’s been a valuable professional affiliation for me, allowing me to connect and build relationships with other travel publishers and editors, freelance writers and those involved in travel public relations. This year’s annual SATW [...]