It’s human nature to want to feel a part of something. That’s one of the main reasons people join clubs and organizations. When I made the transition from full-time nursing to full-time freelance travel writing, I realized that as exciting as my new life was, I wasn’t part of a team like I had been at the hospital. Much of the work I was producing was now being done in my home office, practically in solitude.

So, I began to venture out. I joined my regional Travel Massive group. Next, I became a member of IFWTWA. Before I knew it, I was reaping the benefits of these formed relationships and my affiliations with other groups as well. Let’s look at the way professional organizations like IFWTWA can benefit travel writers and bloggers from an insider’s perspective.

Vermont is best known for maple syrup, skiing, fall foliage, and Ben & Jerry’s. But, in the past decade agriculture and food as well as the craft beer movement have positioned Vermont as best in class for foodies and beer connoisseurs, with travelers from across the globe coming to Vermont to taste our award-winning double IPAs, cheeses, ice cream, and, well… just about everything is great in Vermont!  #ExploreVTFood

IFWTWA member journalists explored the largest city (Burlington) and smallest city (Vergennes), the largest lake - Lake Champlain, and the mountains (Stowe, Vermont’s Highest peak)! We met with some of the regions tastemakers who are making waves nationally, and learned about up-and-coming food and beverage trends. Enjoy our stories of Vermont >>  

This year, pour Mom what she really wants for Mother’s Day—a knockout Chardonnay from a winemaking family who knows their way around tasteful California wines. Honestly, I haven’t found many Chardonnays that I could rave about. That has all changed… and just in time for Mother’s Day!

On a press trip hosted by Visit Tri-Valley and the Livermore Valley Winegrowers Association, I was introduced to Wente Vineyards Riva Ranch Vineyard 2017 Chardonnay (about $20) at the Wente Winery. The wine is a WOW. The winery is gorgeous. Lucky are the moms who find this wine on their patio or dining room table.

Nowhere in Greece offers the exotic story lines like Halkidiki. The region is the perfect combination of distinctive Greek culture, unspoiled landscapes, dazzling colors and mysterious fragrances.

Come experience the glorious natural setting, the famous culinary fare of the region, and the living traditions of its people. This is a place where all your senses will come to life and boundless stories can be told. Think chic, cosmopolitan beaches, secluded bays, and out-of-the-way coves. Just the tantalizing scent of the pine trees and the salt brine of the sea bring relaxation to the body and spirit, leaving you to develop stories your readers will never forget.

Imagine a five-day immersion trip into the heart of Louisiana. A group of eight IFWTWA journalists toured the best Lafayette has to offer. The Southern spirit was ever present as they were absorbed into the Cajun and Louisiana Creole culture. 

From swamp boat tours to rum tasting, zydeco breakfasts, regional dinners, and a cooking class at the famous Tabasco Factory, IFWTWA participants had an impressive hands-on experience they can’t wait to share with their readers -- read our member's stories here.