Challenging Trends

     Within my own magazine, there is no specific group I want to represent other than adventurous travelers. I intend to focus on affordable traveling, including budgeting, saving, and spending tips when vacationing, however, that is not targeted towards a certain group. My focused audience will be audacious people who are not limited to common tourist schedules and are willing to get out of their comfort zones to explore. 

In the magazine, “Travel + Leisure”, there are sections of outdoor life, backpacking, flying, ships, etc. Some magazines have specific sections targeted towards trendy places, but to compensate, there are also sections included that gather information about exploring places rather than touring, and about getting personal with nature. Besides sections in different travel magazines, there are worldwide magazines that base their travel options and recommendations based on the bold traveling choices. Magazines like “Canoe and Kayak”, “National Geographic Travel”, and “Outside” Magazine, focus on interacting with nature the right way, not just through zoos and swimming with dolphins. “National Geographic Travel” includes the ability to plan group “expeditions”, not tours, but rather be able to actually experience the place you are visiting.

    I do think the collection and selections of these magazines represent adventurous travelers well. However, I feel like the unfair part of it is that it can be assumed that adventurous or nature seeking means risky and dauntless. Some of these magazines focus on skydiving, snorkeling, etc. “National Geographic Travel” represents the group the best because they include sections that show appreciation of the location, not just trendy areas and “instagram worthy” spots. Sections like “See the Arctic’s striking landscapes from above”, “Discover the art behind Nashville’s signature sound”, and “Lake Toba’s striking beauty” appeal and attract those travelers who are looking to explore and get to know a place, rather than just tour it. I think the representation is pretty accurate, however I do believe more general travel magazines should include more sections like the ones from “National Geographic Travel”.

    I would retain the element of a compelling and eye-catching title for the section to draw the attention along with striking visuals to create the imagery. I would challenge the assumption. The assumption of only being open to “all nature” and “no city” thought that people have when travelers say they want to explore. I would also want to compare both types of travelers. For each location, I would like to put an option for those who prefer a luxurious touristic experience, and one for those travelers who are looking for an adventure and to leave the place feeling like they know it, not just visited it.